Healthy lifestyle

A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.

Mental Health

Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.

Public health

Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.

Reproductive Health

For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.

Health

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.

mardi 1 mai 2018

50+ Photos That Show Shakira Has Changed a Lot in the Past 17 Years but Also Not at All

Shakira's hair color might have flipped and flopped, but through our deep dive through photos of her taken in the past 17 years, we've found some consistencies. First, there's her sweet smile. Shakira isn't afraid to flash her dimples, always waving and posing for the cameras at red carpets, concerts, and even while out and about. Then, there's her wild and curly long hair (with a brief intermission for a bob in 2012 that honestly we had totally forgotten about). And, of course - how could we not say this? - there's the Colombian singer's hard-rock abs, probably a result of hours on stage belly dancing and shaking her hips.

Whether you got to know Shakira during the Latin explosion of the late '90s or knew all the lyrics to her first album, Pies Descalzos, by memory, you will appreciate how much she looks like herself but has also somehow managed to evolve through the years, just like her music. Look ahead for more than 50 photos of Shakira, starting in 1999, the year she was nominated for her first Grammy and broke into American radio with her MTV Unplugged.

13 Amazing Beauty Products From Latina-Owned Brands You Need Right Now

One amazing byproduct of makeup and beauty products is feeling good, and not just in how you look. Sure, nailing a perfect cat eye or finally buying that right shade for your skin tone is like finding the holy grail. But beauty is about more than those things; it's also about feeling confident in your brand of choice.

It's no secret that the beauty industry lacks diversity, but growing brands run by women and women of color have thankfully been on the rise. Since women wear makeup for themselves, finding companies that honor that is important. That's why we've put together a list of the best beauty products from Latina-owned brands that can be found at Sephora inside JCPenney and at the InStyle Salon. These items will have you looking and feeling your best, since that's what beauty is all about.

So, Elsa Pataky Has a Thor Tattoo - and She Got It WAY Before Meeting Chris Hemsworth

Image Source: Getty / Mike Coppola

Elsa Pataky and Chris Hemsworth were simply destined to be together. Case in point: Elsa got a Thor symbol tattooed on her arm at age 15, many moons before she would meet and marry the man who plays the hammer-toting God of Thunder in the Marvel movies. That's more than just a funny coincidence - it's fate.

When Elsa chatted with Vogue Australia for the publication's May issue, the 41-year-old Spanish actress dished on the meaning behind her dozens of tattoos. She has a "C" on her wedding ring finger, which was recently inked by Chris. (Oh, and she also inked an "E" on Chris's finger, too - #couplegoals.) Those markings on her left forearm? They're symbols that represent each of her family member's initials. Elsa also has three dots on her finger to honor her three closest gal pals, including Matt Damon's wife, Luciana Barroso, who has a matching tattoo.

And then there's the small yet notable symbol inked on her right bicep. "Yes, it's about Thor and I ended up marrying who plays Thor!" she told Vogue Australia of her tattoo. "It is shocking how things in life [turn out]. I just liked that [symbol] and the legend he had was so beautiful and I wanted to keep it."

Image Source: Getty / David Livingston

Little did 15-year-old Elsa know when she sat down in that tattoo parlor that nearly two decades later, she would tie the knot with the actor who plays Thor on the big screen and welcome three beautiful children with him. If you formerly didn't believe in fate, this should certainly change your mind.

You'll Never Eat Another Gummy Bear or Marshmallow Again After Hearing What It's Made From


If you look at the ingredients on a package of gummy bears - even organic ones - you'll see expected things like corn or brown rice syrup and sugar. But you'll also see something called gelatin. Seems innocent enough, but its source might surprise you. Gelatin is a yellowish, odorless, and nearly tasteless substance that is made by prolonged boiling of skin, cartilage, and bones from animals. It's made primarily from the stuff meat industries have left over - we're talking about pork skins, horns, and cattle bones. Ugh.

I guess if you're into the philosophy of using the whole animal, you'll be psyched about this. Plus gelatin contains 18 amino acids, so it does offer some nutritional benefits. But if you're vegan, you'll definitely want to skip the chewy candies and your great-aunt's Jell-O mold - it's made with gelatin, too. This animal-derived ingredient can also be found in some vitamins and medications, marshmallows (not Trader Joe's - they're vegan!), cheeses, yogurts, soups, salad dressings, jams and jellies, fruit snacks, and canned hams. If this tidbit of info grosses you out, you'll want to pay closer attention to these products' food labels.

Every Time You Pee, Do These 3 Things to Help You Lose Weight

Quick fixes usually don't cut it when it comes to losing weight and getting toned, but this one-minute trick actually works! Take into consideration this little fact: the average woman pees six to eight times in a 24-hour period, so that's about five to seven times while you're awake. And if you have issues with your bladder (thank you, pregnancy!) or you drink a ton of water each day, your ladies' room visits are more like 10 times a day.

So this means you have six to 10 opportunities to fit in a little fitness. Every time you hit the bathroom, whether it's to pee or touch up your lipstick, do the workout below that should take about one minute.

The Workout: Complete once
10 push-ups (lower the knees if you need to)
10 squats
10 alternating forward lunges (five per side)

If you're using a public bathroom, do not get on the floor to do your push-ups! Just lean your hands on the counter, then after your lunges, you can wash your hands. Maybe you can even get some of your co-workers to do it with you! If the bathroom you're using is so public that you feel weird doing this mini workout in front of anyone, find a spot somewhere else where you can pump out this one-minute bodyweight workout without feeling self-conscious. But do it immediately after leaving the bathroom. If you wait, you're more likely to forget.

So let's say you use the bathroom six times in a day. That adds up to 60 push-ups, 60 squats, and 60 alternating lunges. That's a pretty decent workout for not hitting the gym, because remember - every minute of exercise counts!

This Is What Happens When You Don't Drink Enough Water

Besides the fact that you'd literally die without it, there are many, MANY imperative reasons to drink water frequently, every single day. It starts out pretty mild - you might feel thirsty and have a dry mouth. But the long-term effects of not drinking enough water not only have an effect on your weight (in a bad way), but they're also extremely dangerous and life-threatening. Here's what happens to your body.

Milder Symptoms

Even mild dehydration has strong effects. Here's how you'll feel with a lack of H2O (hint: it's really not fun).

  • Fatigue, tiredness, sleepiness
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Dizziness
  • Mood change, irritability, increased anxiety
  • Sunken eyes
  • Shriveled skin
  • Muscle cramps
  • Joint aches

Severe Symptoms

If things get worse, so do your symptoms. These are the "go to the hospital" signs.

  • Low blood pressure, with a rapid heartbeat
  • Fever
  • Delirium, unconsciousness
  • Severe diarrhea and/or vomiting
  • Inability to keep fluids down

Latent Effects

Consistently not drinking enough water for an extended period of time has its effect as well. Although you may brush off the milder side effects, your body is still suffering - and several of these have a significant bearing on weight gain.

  • Low water, slow metabolism. Your body's ability to remove waste and detoxify is inhibited. In addition, your metabolism is slower without water. One study found that drinking 16 ounces of water daily increases your metabolic rate by 30 percent. Guys. That's literally ONE standard-size water bottle. JUST DRINK IT.
  • Increased hunger. When you're somewhat dehydrated, your body confuses it for hunger, causing you to eat when you don't need to. Read: weight gain.
  • Slowed circulation, irregular temperature. Your CV system suffers, and your equilibrium is totally out of whack.
  • Digestion problems. That constipation we talked about becomes a regular thing. Not fun. Also not great for weight loss.
  • General fatigue. Same goes for your energy levels. You'll constantly feel tired, unable (or unwilling) to exercise, and unable to concentrate.
  • Increased blood sugar. Your body needs water to break down sugar. If you're diabetic, this is especially dangerous.

Severe Long-Term Effects

Now for the worst of it. Yes, it's terrible that dehydration can make you gain weight (or keep you from losing it), but there are some bigger issues at hand. If you're truly neglecting your water intake, this should likely help you get on track. Here's what happens to your body when you don't get enough water.

  • Heat injury
  • Brain swelling
  • Seizures
  • Hypovolemic shock
  • Kidney failure
  • Coma and death

Now go get yourself a water bottle and FILL. IT. UP.

How to Run More Than a Mile Without Feeling Like You're Dying

Many newbie runners give up on running because within a mile (or less), their legs are on fire and they're breathing so hard they feel like they're a huff and a puff away from passing out. Don't expect to be able to run five miles right from the get-go - it takes time to build endurance, and here are five ways to do it.

  1. Check your form: A broken machine won't run well, and the same goes for your body. Poor running form can cause aches and pains that make you want to stop in your tracks, so check your running form to ensure your body will feel like it can keep going and going.
  2. Run more often: As with anything, practice makes perfect. You can't expect to run like a gazelle if you only lace up your sneaks twice a week. Spread out your workouts over the week, running shorter distances more often. Try doing one- or two-mile workouts (choose a distance that works for your level of ability) five times a week. You'll be surprised at how quickly running starts to feel easier.
  3. Increase slowly: Once your breath starts to even out and your muscles become less fatigued, you can start increasing your mileage. Don't get ahead of yourself, though. Follow the 10 percent rule: never increase your weekly mileage by more than 10 percent of the previous week. Not only will this help to prevent injury, but it'll also prevent your mind from feeling overwhelmed by doing too much too soon.
  1. Intervals: Running faster may be harder, but it'll increase muscle strength and lung capacity, which are key to building your endurance. Start off by adding a few 10-second sprinting intervals every few minutes, and gradually build up to 30-second sprints.
  2. Head for the hills: Running up hills is another way to build leg and core strength as well as lung endurance. Increase the incline on the treadmill, or find some natural hills outside and do a shorter version of this hill repeat workout. At first you'll curse the hills, but after a couple weeks, you'll be craving them.

I Took CBD Oil For 7 Days For Anxiety - Here's What Happened

I have to admit, I'm nervous to share this story . . . in large part because of the stigma around marijuana, regardless of the reasons you're using it or which component of it you're using (THC vs. CBD, specifically). But that in and of itself made me realize how much more I do need to share this story. Because if we break through the stigma, there's a product here that has the capacity to change lives and help millions of people heal naturally. And no, it won't make you into a stoner.

A few weeks ago, the people at Charlotte's Web Hemp reached out to see if I wanted to try CBD for myself. To be honest, my initial reaction was "hell no." I don't smoke, I never want to be "high," I'm not into weed, and I'm not in any way, shape, or form into illegal drugs in general. However, I am a huge fan of naturopathic remedies like Chinese herbs and probiotics, acupuncture, and essential oils. I had been reading about how CBD is natural and legal, doesn't make you feel "high," and could mitigate effects of anxiety (in addition to a laundry list of other things).

Before we get into it, a quick breakdown: CBD oil is cannabidiol, an active component of cannabis. You're probably familiar with another cannabinoid: tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC . . . you know, the stuff that gets you high. There are over 85 cannabinoid compounds in a cannabis plant, but THC is the only one - seriously, just one - that is psychoactive (aka brain altering).

Charlotte's Web assured me that CBD does not in fact get you high and would essentially be liquid Xanax from Mother Nature. It also mentioned I wouldn't need a medical marijuana card (which I don't have), as it's a totally legal product. I was in.

CBD would essentially be liquid Xanax from Mother Nature.

A few days later, I received the CW "Everyday Plus" Hemp Oil in olive oil and CW "Everyday Advanced" Hemp Oil in mint chocolate flavor ($75 and $150, respectively). And as most respected professionals do, I tried it in the office at my place of employment, midday, with one of my coworkers. Legalities aside, I was still nervous that I'd get the psychoactive effects and lose control of my mental faculties, but coworkers assured me that "everything is fine" and basically told me to chill out and eat the oil. The experiment had begun.

Day 1

Dose: Two droppers full of Everyday Advanced, mint chocolate flavor

The "two droppers" was per the recommendation I received from CW. This apparently equates to two servings, though the supplement recommends taking two droppers full twice daily. This was roughly 92 mg of Hemp CO2 extract. I remember thinking, "This tastes like a mint chocolate ash tray."

Effects: Extremely sleepy during the day. That said, got "100 percent" sleep quality according to my Sleep Cycle app that I use nightly. No adverse side effects.

Day 2

Dose: One dropper full of Everyday Advanced

I decided to scale back so I wouldn't be so tired. I also had SoulCycle scheduled that night, and I really wanted to look alive in the front row, you know?

Effects: Relaxed, but not much to report on from this day either. I felt great during SoulCycle, and I didn't get too sore, which is somewhat unusual . . . maybe because of the CBD? TBD.

Day 3

Dose: One dropper full of Everyday Plus, olive oil flavor

By the third day, I decided to try the scaled-back, olive variety of these oils, which has 25 mg of Hemp CO2 extract per serving. I started small with one dropper just to be safe.

Effects: I honestly didn't feel much of anything! It wasn't a particularly anxiety-inducing day, so there wasn't much to stimulate my experiment.

Day 4

Dose: Two and a quarter droppers full of Everyday Advanced

This . . . this was the day of days. The day when I realized CBD can change lives. Also the day when I realized I had taken more oil than usual, which left me feeling not at all like myself as the hours went on. Background: driving is an anxiety trigger for me, and I was stuck in traffic for over three hours (for a trip that is usually just one hour) with a panic attack slowly building and tears starting to flow, so I reached for the oil - and decided to try a tiny little bit extra.

Effects: Anxiety relief within 30 minutes; it quite honestly felt miraculous. I was relaxed and laughing, and I felt like myself again. However, a few hours later, things took a turn. At risk of embarrassing myself, I'll just say that I became extremely spacey, couldn't focus on anything, and was starving - I had finished a substantial Italian dinner at 7 p.m. but decided at 8:30 p.m. that I needed a S'mores Frappuccino (truly deviating from my normal eating habits) . . . and then I needed an entire pint of Ben & Jerry's Half Baked. It was a scene. I don't know how it happened, but fair warning: this was too much for me. Though I was mildly traumatized, my best friend thought it was hilarious.

Day 5

Dose: One *half* dropper full of Everyday Advanced

Fully scarred from the day before, I scaled back significantly as I knew my duty was to continue the experiment for all seven days.

Effects: I felt relaxed! No anxiety to report on, and no adverse side effects.

Day 6

Dose: One dropper full of Everyday Advanced

I recovered from the fear of day four and scaled back up to a full dropper and had a very relaxing day. I drove back to SF and felt completely comfortable in traffic and even had a couple cups of coffee - which normally could give me a panic attack - and felt totally fine.

Effects: Mitigated anxiety from caffeine consumption, great sleep.

Day 7

Dose: Two droppers full of Everyday Advanced

Curious to see if day four's high was possibly a fluke, I decided to be brave (ha!) and scale back up - but was mentally prepared this time for anything that could happen. Aaaand I didn't get high! A win all around.

Effects: I had a deep sleep that night - so deep, in fact, that it was a little harder to wake up in the morning.

Overall Thoughts

I'm still figuring out that sweet-spot dose for myself, but my initial impression is extremely positive. I'm astounded at how well this prevented a panic attack and mitigated my anxiety in a naturopathic way. The idea that I could avoid potentially addictive psychotropic drugs while still managing stress and anxiety - in a way that won't make me high or impact my ability to think and work clearly - is unbelievable. It really is Mother Nature's liquid Xanax.

CBD oil has the ability to relieve pain and inflammation, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, fight cancer (seriously), relieve nausea, and reduce PMS symptoms, and it may even help with epilepsy.

I am a goody-two-shoes, nonsmoking fitness editor, and I fully recommend trying CBD as part of your wellness routine.

Because it's so safe and the side effects have been minimal, my personal recommendation is to try it, but just to be careful with your dose. Also keep in mind - as I did not know this when I first tried it - CBD oil may cause you to fail a drug test. Fortunately for me, POPSUGAR is pretty chill about this, but this is something that could present a serious issue if you're looking for a job or in a line of work that tests regularly.

I was super uncomfortable with the perception, labeling, and stigma around the use of cannabis products, but the profound pros that CBD oil has to offer me medically significantly outweigh any kind of cons I might endure from social stigma. I do think it's important to break said stigma around cannabis use of all kinds, whether it's CBD or THC, recreational or medical use. So here I am, a goody-two-shoes, nonsmoking fitness editor, here to share my side and my experience - and I fully recommend trying CBD as part of your wellness routine.

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I Traded My Afternoon Banana For a Protein Shake and Wasn't Expecting This to Happen

I eat pretty healthy and recently started taking photos of my meals and snacks to keep tabs on my portions and food choices. So I never felt the need to track my calories or macros.

But just for fun, I decided to start using MyFitnessPal. I wanted to make sure that I was getting all the nutrients I needed. I honestly thought it was just going to confirm that I was eating a balanced diet. But let me tell you - it was eye-opening! I thought I was getting more than enough protein since beans, tofu, tempeh, soy yogurt, greens, nuts, and seeds are a huge part of my diet. But on most days, I was barely breaking 60 grams. I was also eating nearly 200 grams of carbs, almost 80 grams of fat, and almost 100 grams of sugar. My calories were higher than I expected, too.

The Experiment

I decided to make a small change - to increase my protein and decrease my carbs and sugar - and see how it affected me. I usually have a banana with raw almond butter for an afternoon snack around 3 p.m., so I traded it for a plant-based protein shake. It seemed like the easiest way to get 20 to 25 grams of extra protein.

I filled a shaker bottle with cold water and a couple of ice cubes, and I added either one serving of Orgain Peanut Butter Protein Powder (160 calories, 21 grams protein, 16 grams carbs) or Vega Clean Vanilla Protein Powder (130 calories, 25 grams protein, three grams carbs). For comparison, one medium banana plus one tablespoon of raw almond butter is 206 calories, 3.7 grams of protein, and 30.4 grams of carbs. The protein shake was easy to make, and it satisfied my craving for something creamy and sweet.

What Happened?

Within just one day, I noticed a difference in how I felt. It's a joke in my house that I can't stay up past 8:30 p.m. (and usually end up passing out in one of my kids' beds when I'm putting them to sleep). I mean, I wake up at 4:45 a.m., so give me a break! But that first night, I had more sustained energy to play with my kids after dinner, and I wasn't nodding off while reading them books. I walked out of my daughter's room at 8:00 p.m., and my husband was like, "You didn't fall asleep?" And I said, "Whoa. I didn't. And I'm not even tired."

I also noticed that drinking a protein shake kept me full for hours. Usually by 5 p.m. I'm so ready for dinner, but during this week, it was 6 p.m. and I was barely hungry. It must have been the combination of the 24 ounces of water and the protein that made me feel so satisfied.

Not heading into dinner famished helped me eat a smaller meal, which is also key for me in preventing evening belly bloat. And I also found I slept really well each night and had tons of energy for my 5:45 a.m. CrossFit workouts. Amazing, right? Just from getting an extra 20 grams of protein!

The only bad thing is that I kind of missed chewing actual food, but I think that's just from habit. I'm sure within another week that will pass. I'll definitely keep this up for a while because I'm experiencing so many benefits! I had no idea this simple swap would help me avoid the dreaded afternoon slump, give me more energy at night, help me eat less for dinner, feel less bloated, help me sleep better, and give me oodles of energy for my morning workouts. I mean, how could I not keep this up?!

This Is What 1 Day of My Meals Looks Like on Weight Watchers

My favorite thing about Weight Watchers is that I can still eat the same foods as I always have. I may have to eat a little bit less of them and space out the junk with a bunch of veggies in between, but I still eat a lot of ice cream. And cheese. I will always eat a lot of cheese.

To prove that eating on Weight Watchers is pretty similar to eating not on Weight Watchers, I documented an entire day of what I eat. Obviously I vary it from day to day, but this is a pretty typical day for me. On Weight Watchers, I get 30 Smart Points per day to eat, and this day came out to exactly 30. I also get 42 weekly points that I can use in case I really wanted that extra scoop of ice cream and had already hit my 30 points for the day. Not that that ever happens to me . . . but the point system provides a lot of flexibility so you can really tailor it to what you want to eat.

While Weight Watchers doesn't count anything beyond points, it is obviously not recommended to ignore other nutritional information and eat a giant 30-point meal in a day and not eat anything else. For one, you won't accomplish much doing that because you'll be hungry other times during the day and possibly screw up the plan by eating more than you really want to. It also isn't sustainable in the long run, so it's important to understand how to mix your favorite not-so-healthy foods in small portions with a lot of 0-point options (almost all fruits and veggies!) to help fill you up.

Weight Watchers, for me, has been a lot of trial and error with balancing my meals to find the right blend of higher- and lower-calorie foods that will keep me full and still keep me on the path to losing weight. And of course with any healthy-eating plan, it's OK if you have a bad day - you learn from it and do better tomorrow.

The Secret to Losing Belly Fat

While focusing on crunches will strengthen your abs, it unfortunately will not get rid of the extra fat around your waist. To get rid of ab flab, it's essential to regularly include calorie-burning cardio in your routine. And not just any kind of cardio - it's important to focus on interval training; alternating between moderate and speedy bursts of exercise is the key.

A study in the International Journal of Obesity revealed that when compared to women who cycled at a consistent pace for 40 minutes, women who worked out for 20 minutes, but alternated between eight-second sprints and 12 seconds of low-intensity cycling, lost more belly fat after 15 weeks. Work out half as long and lose more fat? Sounds good to me!

You can do intervals with virtually any type of activity. Here are some ways to incorporate them into your routine:

  1. Use visual goals: Run or bike at a moderate pace, and then look ahead and sprint to the mailbox that's 50 feet away, or up the hill, or to the end of the street. Once you reach your goal, reduce back to your moderate speed. After your breathing returns to normal, choose another goal to race to.
  2. Use time: Watch the clock and move moderately for two minutes and then zoom as fast as you can for one minute. Repeat this pattern for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Use music: Make an interval playlist, alternating between fast-paced peppy tunes and slower, chill tunes. Walk, run, or dance to the beat. Here's a 60-minute walk-run playlist, or for a faster-paced workout, try this 40-minute running playlist.
  4. Use a POPSUGAR Fitness interval workout: If you find it easier to follow a cardio routine, check out these interval workouts:

Get Stronger Every Day With This 100-Burpee Challenge

I was shocked when I walked into CrossFit and the WOD (workout of the day) said "100 Burpees." I had never done that many in my life at one time, and it did not sound fun. I wasn't even sure I'd be able to do it.

But after having gone to CrossFit five times a week for three months, I was in pretty good shape. And guess what? It didn't suck as much as I thought, and it only took me about 10 minutes. The coach said this is a great workout to do in your hotel room while traveling or if you're short on time. My heart was pumping, I was dripping sweat, and my muscles felt worked! Now I'm kind of loving the 100-burpee workout!

I realize this isn't something anyone would want to just jump right into, so here is a four-week plan to get you up to the full 100. Aim to do 25 by the end of the first week, 50 by the second week, and so on until you make it all the way to 100. Follow the plan below. Not ready to commit to a month? We have a two-week burpee challenge for you to try.

How to Do a Basic Burpee

  • Begin standing with the feet hip-distance apart.
  • Lower into a crouching squat with your hands on the floor.
  • Do a squat thrust by jumping your feet back into a plank position.
  • Do one basic push-up, bending the elbows, touching the chest to the floor, and then straightening back to plank.
  • Step or jump the feet forward to the hands and come into a squat.
  • Do an explosive jump straight up, getting as much height as you can.

The Plan

Day of Month Number of Reps
Day 1 8
Day 2 11
Day 3 14
Day 4 Rest
Day 5 17
Day 6 21
Day 7 25
Day 8 Rest
Day 9 30
Day 10 35
Day 11 40
Day 12 Rest
Day 13 45
Day 14 50
Day 15 55
Day 16 Rest
Day 17 60
Day 18 65
Day 19 70
Day 20 Rest
Day 21 75
Day 22 80
Day 23 85
Day 24 Rest
Day 25 90
Day 26 95
Day 27 100 (you made it!)
Day 28 Rest (you deserve it!)

If You Want to Lose Weight and Still Drink, Read This

Having Trouble Going to the Bathroom? Eat Any of These 5 Foods

Nothing stinks like failing to make a number two in the bathroom. If you are suffering from constipation or general digestive issues, it's time to take action by switching up your diet. Generally speaking, "diets including fruits, fluids, and probiotics are good for constipation," says the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). But specifics are helpful, so here are five recommended foods to eat if you just can't go to the bathroom.

Kiwi

Kiwi is not only tangy and delicious, but it can go a long way toward smoothing the road to poopin'. According to studies, kiwi soothes a wide range of bowel complaints, from the not-enough to the too-much end of the spectrum, so no matter what you're experiencing, this fuzzy fruit is your guy.

Prunes

Your grandma was right: prunes really do work. Dose yourself with juice or dried fruit - no specific amount, but be careful you don't go too hard too fast - and then take more as needed. If you suffer from constipation regularly, consider making prunes a staple part of your diet.

Yogurt

All hail King Probiotic, seemingly responsible for everything from helping you live longer to digesting your food better. It can also help us poop, whether you're a soon-to-be mom or a child or young adult. Swap out your milk for yogurt with morning cereal or granola, and enjoy the difference.

Legumes

Beans, peas, and lentils are not only full of vitamins and nutrients, but they can significantly relieve problems in the john. "I suggest including them in the diet every day, one half cup cooked, because [they're a] rich source of fiber, as well as protein, vitamins, and minerals," Sharon Palmer, R.D.N, told Women's Health. Just be careful at first, as legumes can swing in the opposite direction if you don't ramp up slowly. No one wants to fight gas at the office, so beware.

Whole Grains

You'd think whole grains might bind you up, but no. A randomized study demonstrates that regularly consuming whole grains actually reduces the incidence of bowel blockage, so have a piece of whole-grain toast or some oatmeal in the morning.

I Added These 4 Things to My Salad and Now I'm Not Hungry Till Dinner

I was feeling proud of being so prepared, making five mason jar salads on Sunday, but as soon as I finished my last forkful of veggies at lunch on Monday, I was starving an hour later. Then I'd end up eating a huge snack that was as big as a second lunch. No wonder I wasn't losing weight!

A jar full of carrots, peppers, celery, and baby kale just doesn't cut it. Even though I added beans to my salad for protein, I realized I needed healthy fats and carbs to satiate me for the afternoon. I started adding these four toppings to my salads, and now I'm full and happy until dinner:

1/4 cup whole grains (like quinoa): 56 calories, 9.9 grams carbs, 1.3 grams fiber, 2 grams protein
1/4 avocado: 57 calories, 2.9 grams carbs, 2.3 grams fiber, .7 grams protein
1/4 cup fruit (like 3 strawberries): 12 calories, 2.9 grams carbs, .8 grams fiber, .3 grams protein
1 tablespoon nuts (like salted sunflower seeds): 46 calories, 1.9 grams carbs, .7 grams fiber, 1.5 grams protein

The quinoa makes it feel like more of a meal, the avocado adds a creaminess that makes my salad more delicious, the sunflower seeds add a wonderful crunchy texture, and the fruit adds just enough sweetness that I don't crave a treat after lunch.

This Gymnast Did an Entire Michael Jackson Floor Routine - and Yes, She Moonwalks!

UCLA gymnast Katelyn Ohashi is going viral for her incredible Michael Jackson floor routine, and it's sure to make you want to get up and dance along. At the 2018 Pac 12 Championships, the student athlete performed a standing-ovation worthy floor routine set to a medley of Michael Jackson hits, including "Thriller" and "The Way You Make Me Feel." Katelyn incorporated a killer moonwalk into the middle of her performance, and ended it with an insane drop split that'll have your jaw on the damn floor.

Her flawless and sassy routine landed her a score of 9.95 out of 10, allowing her to tie for first in the competition. Join the 47 million fans who've already admired Katelyn's now-viral MJ-themed routine by watching it above.

What's the Deal With Alcohol and Ibuprofen?

If you wake up with a headache after a night of overindulging, sometimes figuring out what painkiller to take can make the headache even worse. Taking acetaminophen (aka Tylenol) can lead to liver damage, but take note: you're also not supposed to drink while taking ibuprofen.

Ibuprofen drugs (like Advil) are part of the anti-inflammatory drug family known as NSAIDs, which can cause tears in the stomach lining if taken on an empty belly. Add alcohol to the mix, and the potential danger is heightened. If you take ibuprofen when drinking more than the recommended amount for women (about two to three drinks), you increase your risk of stomach irritation and bleeding. This is especially true for people who are prone to ulcers.

But wait! Taking Tylenol when you're hungover isn't such a good idea either, and aspirin has its downsides too. Acetaminophen can lead to liver damage if you take it in large doses for more than a couple of days. Heavy drinkers who take acetaminophen and don't eat enough can overtax their livers. According to researchers at Harvard Medical School:

If you drink a lot of alcohol - say, on a Saturday night - and take a normal dose of acetaminophen to deal with the hangover in the morning, you probably are not going to have liver problems. . . . The trouble starts when regular heavy drinkers take a lot of acetaminophen over a period of time - several days, at least, and maybe longer. (In this context, heavy drinkers are defined as people who regularly have three or more drinks a day.) A drinking habit and a poor diet often go hand in hand. Multiple high doses of acetaminophen are more dangerous for drinkers partly because their glutathione levels tend to be low because they don't eat well.

It may sound like popping a few Tylenols after a night or two of heavy drinking can't hurt, but the risks associated with taking Tylenol after recreational drinking are somewhat blurry. A Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advisory group found in a review of its database and a large liver failure study that the median dose that led to liver failure was between 5,000 and 7,000 milligrams of acetaminophen per day - scarily close to the current daily limit of 4,000 milligrams (eight extra-strength Tylenol). The FDA group recommended lowering the daily limit to 3,250 milligrams (or 10 regular-strength Tylenol pills a day) to help prevent accidental overdose.

So what's a hungover, headache-plagued gal to do - besides not drinking so much in the first place? Since the jury is still out on the exact effects of combining Advil or Tylenol with booze, it's probably best just to tough it out. While a recent study in rats found that coffee and aspirin are the best remedies for relieving hangover symptoms, it didn't look at possible alcohol interactions - and it is known that taking aspirin with alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding. If you're looking to remedy a hangover, your best bet is to go natural with options like this fresh-pressed hangover juice or a yoga sequence to relieve your symptoms. Even better, help prevent a hangover the next time with these tips.

You Can Do This Printable Superset Tabata Workout Anywhere

Tabata is the ultimate fitness trifecta. It's fast. It's fun. It's effective. We've tweaked the standard structure a bit, turning each round of Tabata into a superset. Rather than doing one exercise for four minutes, you alternate between two complementary moves for a total of eight minutes. This modification gives your working muscles a bit more rest time between sets, which translates into better form for all your reps during each round of Tabata.

Get ready to burn major calories. Print out this workout and get your timer ready (we like the free programmable app SIT - simple interval timer). Hope you dig this workout as much as we do.

Tabata One

Jumping jacks: This classic calisthenic move gets the heart rate going; add in some cross jacks for variety.

Walkouts: This full-body move takes you slowly from standing, through plank, to a deep lunge stretch, and back to standing.

One-Minute Rest: Standing leg cradle (alternate legs for the one-minute active rest).


Tabata Two

Squats with reach: Take your basic squat, lift your arms overhead, and you've increased the core strength needed for each rep.

Up-down planks: Move steadily and smoothly between plank and elbow plank, which works your arms and your core.

One-Minute Rest: Standing quad stretch (30 seconds each leg).


Tabata Three

Alternating backward lunges: Step backward into a lunge and alternate legs with each rep.

Mountain climbers: Holding a plank position, move your legs like you're running in place to work your arms and abs.

One-Minute Rest: Deep hip flexor stretch (30 seconds each side).

Tabata Four

Alternating side lunges: Keep your chest high as you step wide to the side. Return to standing and repeat the lunge on the other side.

Bicycle crunches: Don't blast through your reps of this classic ab exercise. Keep your shoulder blades off the ground and twist through your ribs to bring your elbow to your opposite knee.

18 Books to Fuel Your Wanderlust

If you suffer from acute wanderlust, and you're constantly trying to find ways to fit another trip into your schedule, then you might be addicted to traveling. No matter where the wind blows you, it's good to bring a good book along for the ride - one that will inspire you, challenge you, and make you even more excited about every new adventure. Here are 18 books, both fiction and nonfiction, that will get you in the mood to jet off to another new place, as if you needed any more convincing!

50+ Fast and Easy Vegetarian Dinners

Two things that sometimes don't mix: weeknights and cooking. But with the right recipes, it's possible to have a satisfying and delicious vegetarian meal in no time. From pasta and stir-fry to salads and soup, these speedy dishes will actually have you looking forward to cooking dinner instead of dreading it.

- Additional reporting by Nicole Perry

31 Activities That Will Make You Happier Every Day

Having a rough day? We've been there. Luckily, there are plenty of fast and easy ways to boost your mood. These quick solutions will make you feel better than ever no matter what you're going through. Just reading these joyous activities will remind you of all the wonderful things in life. Give one a try!

Need Your Starbucks Fix? We Scoped Out the Best Deals For You

A wise woman once said, "Coffee is the most important meal of the day." That woman was me.

Starbucks is arguably the most popular coffee chain by sheer number of locations, and the quality of the coffee is pretty on point. Also, the chain continually reinvents itself with new brews, flavorings, infusions, Insta-worthy drinks, and more to keep customers guessing and excited about what's coming up next.

But sometimes you need your coffee fix, you need it now, and you need it on a budget. Here are some of the best Starbucks deals out there to make your caffeine headache go away and your wallet happy, too.

Starbucks Rewards Card

If you're not participating in the Starbucks Rewards program, you really should, even if you're just a casual Buxer. The more you drink, the more stars you earn, and those stars turn into free items. Yes, free. The rewards program also comes with challenges to win you bonus stars for your visits. For example, hit Starbucks three days in a row and get 25 bonus stars. SCORE.

There are also seasonal games tied to your rewards card like Starbucks Bingo. Not only do these increase the chances for rewards, but you can also win prizes like Starbucks for a week or for a year.

The Rewards program is also great to have if you are an experimental Starbucks drinker, meaning that you always have to taste what's new. The app usually gives bonus stars for new and promoted drinks, allowing you to sip that victory drink a little quicker.

To sign up for Starbucks Rewards, all you have to do is download the free app to your phone. Then connect it to your PayPal, Apple Pay, or preferred monetary source and get going. You can set your own reload increments and even add gift cards to the app so you can reap the rewards even when it's not your money.

Starbucks Rewards Credit Card

If you are a Starbucks addict (do not look at me . . . OK, look), applying for the Starbucks Rewards Credit Card may actually help your wallet instead of hurt it.

With the Starbucks Rewards Credit Card, every qualifying purchase brings you closer to food or drink Rewards with one star for every $4 you spend outside of Starbucks stores. And in Starbucks stores, credit card holders are entitled to three stars for every $1 spent at Starbucks so long as they reload their Rewards app using the card.

If you have the credit card, eight times a year, you will get certificates to try out some of the favorites of the chain's baristas, called Barista Picks.

However, be aware that it is a credit card and you should use credit responsibly. There is no reason that Frappuccino needs to put you up to your eyeballs in debt. I probably did that in college and I can tell you it was not worth it.

Look For Star Codes

Star codes are these little, magical codes that can be redeemed for reward stars. The two most common ways to get a star code are by participating in member-exclusive offers you receive by email or by purchasing specially marked Starbucks products in grocery stores.

The Treat Receipt

Need your fix multiple times a day? Then hang on to your receipts during the company's promoted treat receipt time. Those little babies are worth their weight in gold if you are a twice-a-dayer. Usually, if you venture out to your local Starbucks in the morning, your treat receipt will entitle you to some sort of discount on your afternoon indulgence. But, of course, restrictions may apply.

Don't keep your receipts? This is where the app comes to the rescue. If you go the digital route, simply show your in-app purchase history to the cashier for the same deal.

Happy Hour

Formerly known as Frappy Hour, this Summer Starbucks staple will be getting an overhaul this year. The company announced that it will be looking to refresh the program - which patrons seemed to love, baristas . . . not so much - and will be sharing details about deals as the warmer months approach.

Drink at the Store

When you order and drink your Starbucks inside a location, you are entitled to a refill. Seriously. When you use your registered Starbucks Card or mobile app to purchase any handcrafted beverage and then present that same Starbucks Card or mobile app, you can get free refills of brewed coffee (hot, iced coffee, or cold brew) and tea (hot or iced) during the same store visit regardless of the original beverage at participating Starbucks stores. So drink your first brew inside and take your second to go.

You'll Never Buy the Jarred Stuff Again Once You Try This Tomatillo Salsa

High School Student With Down Syndrome Crowned Prom Queen: "Inclusion Is a Beautiful Thing"

Caitlin Adams, a Nebraska high school senior with Down syndrome, got to wear a tiara and hear the applause of her classmates as she was crowned prom queen for Elkhorn South High School on April 7. According to the Omaha World-Herald, Caitlin's fellow students came together to support her, electing her into prom court with a majority vote . . . and giving Caitlin a night she'll never forget. One of Caitlin's classmates and her friend since kindergarten, Callie Bopes, described Caitlin as having a massive smile on her face the whole night.

Prom is a special rite of passage for any teen, and the significance of Caitlin's win isn't lost on her mother, Stephanie Adams. "I think the message is that inclusion is a beautiful thing," she told the World-Herald. Stephanie said her daughter's peers and teachers have always accepted her, which is clearly demonstrated through her thrilling prom queen experience.

When she's not busy being crowned prom queen, Caitlin is involved with her school's yearbook, competes in the Special Olympics, and, like many teens her age, enjoys hanging out with friends, using Snapchat, and watching YouTube videos. Stephanie knows that becoming prom queen will give Caitlin the "confidence to know she can do great things in life."

15 Unique Gifts That Will Make Mom Feel Extra Special This Mother's Day

This Mother's Day, go the extra mile to show Mom how much she really means to you. Instead of getting her another bouquet of flowers, treat her to a truly unique gift that she can enjoy using. If you haven't tried shopping at Uncommon Goods, now is the perfect time. This gem of a retailer has so many creative and useful finds, it's hard to stop shopping. We searched for you and rounded up a list of fun products we think your mom will love. From an avocado tree starter kit to personalized jewelry, take a look and pick out what you think fits her best.

I Finally Found the Best Air Purifier - and It's on Amazon (on Sale)

Feeling like there might be airborne chemicals and pet dander floating around your home or just that your allergies are worse than usual? Then you might want to consider getting an air purifier. Buying one is certainly not the be-all and end-all when it comes to ridding a space of toxins in the air or for solving respiratory problems, but it can be a welcomed addition and, at the very least, nice to just have clean(er) air.

I've owned two air purifiers in my adult life (cheap ones, mostly), but I recently decided I wanted better. I did my research and purchased the Coway AP-1512HH Mighty Air Purifier with True HEPA and Eco Mode ($178, originally $230). I'm very glad I did.

The first thing I noticed was that it was quieter than other ones I've owned (though the faster you speed it up, the louder it can become), and it alters its speed based on what it detects in the air. So if I spray texturizer on my hair, the purifier uses partical-detecting technology to determine that the air has changed and that it needs to crank up the intensity. The first time that happened, I started at it. "How does it know I just sprayed something?" I thought.

It's also sleek, and you can easily tuck it away. My favorite feature, though, might be Eco Mode: when no pollution is detected, the purifier automatically shuts off. Genius.

How This Mom's YOLO Moment Disrupted the $13 Billion Lingerie Industry

"I was always skipping to work," Michelle Cordeiro Grant told me when talking about her job at Victoria's Secret as senior merchant director. "I was one of those annoying people on the subway smiling for no reason." But in 2012, she began to lose that pep in her step. "I started to love my job less and see the politics of corporate life, which is why I ultimately left Victoria's Secret," she continued. "I wasn't having fun anymore, and I needed to figure out how to have fun again."

"I knew that I wanted to start a company but needed to learn how because I had no idea." Grant took a job at startup company Thrillist Media Group soon after to see how to evolve a business firsthand. "I was able to see the business grow exponentially. I learned what to do, what not to do, and I was able to formulate how to create my own version of what startups can be," Grant explained. After three years at Thrillist and securing financial backing from investors, she went after her YOLO moment by starting her own company.

Grant walked into her new office on day one as her own CEO and only employee. With just four plain white walls and no company name, she started with a vision board. "I spent a lot of time visualizing and building out the aesthetic of the company so that when I recruited my team, I had stuff to show. I made a list of things I was fearful of and created a network. I made those people my best friends. So when something went wrong in one of my fearful areas - such as a customer service nightmare - I knew exactly who to call," she explained.

Soon after, inspired by women with wild hearts and boss brains, Lively was born.

"I wanted to start a brand where consumers actually talk about brand and community and not where they found the best markdown. I want women to wear Lively and feel something - to live passionately, to live confidently, to feel sexy and unique," Grant said. One bra has more than 40 components, which translates to 40 different suppliers. When Lively launched in 2016 exclusively online, bra styles offered were manufactured in 22 different sizes. "Not only do I want our products to be accessible in price, but also accessible to women of all shapes and sizes," she explained.

On her own terms, Grant has a goal to create a brand without any sales, markdowns, or Black Friday participation. "We want brand-lovers first and foremost, and we don't talk about price or sales in our marketing. Instead, we talk about empowering our consumers to feel sexy and beautiful," she said.

"Once we started development in China, our partners saw how unique our product actually was. We were literally cutting yoga pants and stapling them to bralettes during ideation," Grant said, laughing. "Opening our new factory this past Summer, we wanted to build a bigger factory but also incorporate our Lively ethos into everything we do."

In 2016, Lively launched with impressive sales. "I never expected to grow as fast as we did. On launch day, I was all dressed up for the press, but when we saw all of the orders coming in, I changed outfits, put on my sneakers, ran over to our warehouse in Secaucus, NJ, and spent the entire first week - morning to night - with my team packaging orders," she said.

Lively has kept its word and has not marked down any products since the site launched. Now, the brand has customers from coast to coast and an all-female staff of 14 in New York. The brand continues to build a community of strong, smart women who feel empowered and always sexy when wearing Lively's products.

Two months after launching Lively, Grant, whose daughter, Lydia, was 2 1/2 at the time, found out she was pregnant. Just a few weeks after the birth of her son, Jack, she came back to work to check on her team. "To launch a company while pregnant is bananas," Grant said, laughing. "But looking back, it was the best thing to ever happen to me."

Lively is currently going on a tour city by city to spend time with the women who have been supporting the brand. After its Dallas pop-up in January, Lively's customer base in the same location increased by 200 percent online.

Grant concluded, "A lot of people told me not start my own business. A lot of people. But I'm glad I did, because I'm skipping to work again, and I strive to create an environment where my team is, too."

A Passionate Open Letter to the Person Pushing Their Dog in a Stroller

Dear Dog Owner,

I'll never forget the time I began reversing my car out of a Starbucks parking lot and, true story, nearly hit a woman pushing her baby in a stroller. My heart, and the world around me, stopped. "What have I done?" I thought, panicked, but then relieved when I realized I'd seen them just in time. Understandably, the woman was upset and began yelling and gesturing at me far more kindly than I would have if I were her. But as she walked around toward the front of my vehicle, I saw that instead of a baby in the stroller, it was a dog. Now, do I go around trying to run dogs over with my car? Of course not! But I have to admit I felt deceived that even for a moment, I thought a baby's well-being hung in the balance because I hadn't seen the "mom" and her stroller behind my car.

I was pissed. Yes, I should have been more careful (people can also look where they're going more carefully), but this was a deception. Babies belong in strollers, not your four-legged friend. And if you can't (or don't want to) let them roam on a leash to explore the world around them because you think they're too special or good for such a simple task, then maybe you shouldn't have a dog in the first place.

Until science proves that things like grass and cement are too harmful for their precious paws, I'll expect them to be on the ground.

Look, I get being totally obsessed with your pet. I love my dog just as much as the next person. She's a cherished member of our family, and we can't imagine life without her. We do, however, treat her differently than our three children . . . because she's a dog. She eats dog food out of a bowl on the floor, poops outside, and sleeps in a dog bed. She also walks on a leash, both for exercise and because she. is. a. dog.

I understand there are some situations that warrant a dog being pushed in a stroller, like a broken leg or serious illness. But if they're perfectly healthy and you just choose to treat them like a pampered princess, they're probably dying to get down and run around. Again, they're animals. And I assure you they won't think you don't love them if you don't push them in a stroller or buy them expensive sweaters. In fact, I like to think they look a little bit embarrassed when they're seen in strollers. Like, "I'll never live this down at the dog park" embarrassed.

But hey, if pushing your dog in a stroller makes you really happy, I'm not mad at you. I just don't think it's necessary. I know you're living your life and not hurting anyone (except maybe your dog's pride), just don't be surprised if you get a few eye rolls or deep sighs en route to wherever it is you're going. Because yes, your dog can be considered your "baby," but until science proves that things like grass and cement are too harmful for their precious paws, I'll expect them to be on the ground.

Respectfully,
Most People

31 Activities That Will Make You Happier Every Day

Having a rough day? We've been there. Luckily, there are plenty of fast and easy ways to boost your mood. These quick solutions will make you feel better than ever no matter what you're going through. Just reading these joyous activities will remind you of all the wonderful things in life. Give one a try!

Need Your Starbucks Fix? We Scoped Out the Best Deals For You

A wise woman once said, "Coffee is the most important meal of the day." That woman was me.

Starbucks is arguably the most popular coffee chain by sheer number of locations, and the quality of the coffee is pretty on point. Also, the chain continually reinvents itself with new brews, flavorings, infusions, Insta-worthy drinks, and more to keep customers guessing and excited about what's coming up next.

But sometimes you need your coffee fix, you need it now, and you need it on a budget. Here are some of the best Starbucks deals out there to make your caffeine headache go away and your wallet happy, too.

Starbucks Rewards Card

If you're not participating in the Starbucks Rewards program, you really should, even if you're just a casual Buxer. The more you drink, the more stars you earn, and those stars turn into free items. Yes, free. The rewards program also comes with challenges to win you bonus stars for your visits. For example, hit Starbucks three days in a row and get 25 bonus stars. SCORE.

There are also seasonal games tied to your rewards card like Starbucks Bingo. Not only do these increase the chances for rewards, but you can also win prizes like Starbucks for a week or for a year.

The Rewards program is also great to have if you are an experimental Starbucks drinker, meaning that you always have to taste what's new. The app usually gives bonus stars for new and promoted drinks, allowing you to sip that victory drink a little quicker.

To sign up for Starbucks Rewards, all you have to do is download the free app to your phone. Then connect it to your PayPal, Apple Pay, or preferred monetary source and get going. You can set your own reload increments and even add gift cards to the app so you can reap the rewards even when it's not your money.

Starbucks Rewards Credit Card

If you are a Starbucks addict (do not look at me . . . OK, look), applying for the Starbucks Rewards Credit Card may actually help your wallet instead of hurt it.

With the Starbucks Rewards Credit Card, every qualifying purchase brings you closer to food or drink Rewards with one star for every $4 you spend outside of Starbucks stores. And in Starbucks stores, credit card holders are entitled to three stars for every $1 spent at Starbucks so long as they reload their Rewards app using the card.

If you have the credit card, eight times a year, you will get certificates to try out some of the favorites of the chain's baristas, called Barista Picks.

However, be aware that it is a credit card and you should use credit responsibly. There is no reason that Frappuccino needs to put you up to your eyeballs in debt. I probably did that in college and I can tell you it was not worth it.

Look For Star Codes

Star codes are these little, magical codes that can be redeemed for reward stars. The two most common ways to get a star code are by participating in member-exclusive offers you receive by email or by purchasing specially marked Starbucks products in grocery stores.

The Treat Receipt

Need your fix multiple times a day? Then hang on to your receipts during the company's promoted treat receipt time. Those little babies are worth their weight in gold if you are a twice-a-dayer. Usually, if you venture out to your local Starbucks in the morning, your treat receipt will entitle you to some sort of discount on your afternoon indulgence. But, of course, restrictions may apply.

Don't keep your receipts? This is where the app comes to the rescue. If you go the digital route, simply show your in-app purchase history to the cashier for the same deal.

Happy Hour

Formerly known as Frappy Hour, this Summer Starbucks staple will be getting an overhaul this year. The company announced that it will be looking to refresh the program - which patrons seemed to love, baristas . . . not so much - and will be sharing details about deals as the warmer months approach.

Drink at the Store

When you order and drink your Starbucks inside a location, you are entitled to a refill. Seriously. When you use your registered Starbucks Card or mobile app to purchase any handcrafted beverage and then present that same Starbucks Card or mobile app, you can get free refills of brewed coffee (hot, iced coffee, or cold brew) and tea (hot or iced) during the same store visit regardless of the original beverage at participating Starbucks stores. So drink your first brew inside and take your second to go.

lundi 30 avril 2018

Vegetarian Carbonara Is Like Italian Mac and Cheese

What the Heck Is Cold Foam? Starbucks Just Added an Intriguing Option For Iced Drinks

Frothy foam is usually only an option for hot coffee drinks like lattes and cappuccinos, but Starbucks has just introduced "cold foam" for iced drinks. Since foam is steamed milk and therefore inherently hot, you're probably wondering what exactly cold foam is. It's pretty interesting - Starbucks baristas use a special blender to blend nonfat milk until it's thick and smooth. It lends a slightly sweet flavor and a creamy texture (without cream), and it floats at the top of the cup in an eye-catching way. Drinks with cold foam are even served with a special lid without a straw so you can get maximum foaminess in every sip. Intrigued? Same!

Starbucks has added the cold foam to the menu at many locations nationwide along with two drinks that feature the topping: a Cold Foam Cascara Cold Brew (which comes with Nitro cold brew where available) and a Cold Foam Starbucks Blonde Iced Cappuccino. You can also, however, choose to add a dollop of cold foam to any iced beverage when you order at the register. If you want to get a closer look before deciding if cold foam is right for you - coffee money is precious! - then read on to see photos of the latest Starbucks offering in its various forms.

8 Must-Try Spring Recipes From Giada De Laurentiis

If you're in the mood to freshen up your cooking routine with a new batch of Spring recipes, look no further than Giada De Laurentiis's recommendations. On her new lifestyle and entertaining site, Giadzy, Giada shares her best recipes that you'd be crazy not to try. Currently, we're bookmarking the following eight recipes that you'll surely want to work into your rotation, whether you're in the mood for cheesy pasta or a fruity breakfast. Read on to discover Giada's foolproof recipes for baked lemon ziti, roasted chicken with potatoes and leeks, and more.

How to Make a Homemade Clif Bar

Have you ever wondered how to blend, shape, and bake energy bars? The makers of Clif Bar shared their tips and techniques for making snack bars using oats, nut butter, and a variety of dried fruits. See the step-by-step instructions, so you can be empowered to make your own for post-workout snacks, road trips, or for any time you're on the go.

6 Secrets Real Estate Agents Know About Kitchen Remodels

So you're finally ready to renovate your dated kitchen, but unsure what upgrades will see a return when it comes time to sell. Katharine Tuckerman, a seasoned real estate agent in Manhattan's Upper East Side with Brown Harris Stevens, says that this room can make or break a deal, because buyers know they will "spend all their time in the kitchen!"

First and foremost, "people really lean towards light and bright kitchens," she says. And although there are so many fun opportunities for customization and colors in a remodel, Katharine confirms the adage that "a neutral palate is always a safe call." Of course, it's not quite that simple! While buyers often anticipate "making minor adjustments," some specific design choices have major selling power, or will just make the space "show much better," as Katharine puts it. From countertops and cabinetry to lighting and appliances, she gives us her winning formula for a kitchen renovation that will rock the MLS!


Make This Oreo Cookie Dough in Just 5 Minutes!