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.
jeudi 30 novembre 2017
The Most Outrageous Outfits Christina Aguilera Has Worn Through the Years
We might have all been talking about Christina Aguilera's head-turning very sexy swimsuit this year, but it's not the first time she's made a big impact with her fashion choices. The Ecuadorian-American singer wore some pretty memorable outfits when she first came into the spotlight.
Who doesn't remember her "Genie in a Bottle" years? Or the black and yellow bikini top she wore with matching chaps and bottoms with the word "Dirrty" on them in honor of her hit song? Back in the day (and even now whenever she's on the red carpet), Xtina was the queen of showing off her midriff and owned her sexy like nobody's business. So take a stroll down memory lane with us to enjoy Christina's most outrageous outfits ever.
15 Warm and Tasty Stews You'll Want to Cozy Up With
When you picture yourself on long crisp nights, wearing cozy pairs of socks and sitting under a blanket, do you also see a bowl of hot, steamy, hearty stew with you? That's exactly why we've rounded up a list of 15 Latin-inspired guisados, stews, and estofados that'll satisfy your need for a warm and filling meal. Scroll ahead for fish, meat, and chicken recipes you'll be whipping up for the next few months.
Meghan Markle's Best Hair Moments Prove She's Always Been a Royal in Waiting
Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's engagement has us not only swooning over their adorable announcement but also sending our beauty-obsessed brains into overdrive about what her wedding hair will look like. We may have to wait until 2018 to find out, but we can still look back at her best hair moments so far for a few hints. She's the queen of relaxed, chic waves, and you'll probably want to re-create her go-to style immediately.
Ahead, see Megan's best mane moments that prove she was born to be a royal, with hair just as fabulous as Kate's!
These 38 Gifts From Nordstrom Will Make You the Hero of Holiday Season
Let's face it: the Nordstrom beauty department is a magical wonderland 365 days a year, but around the holidays, the place gets extra special. That's because during the Winter, the store rolls out the absolute best and most luxurious in makeup, skin, and hair care.
From a delightful set of MAC lipsticks to a Laura Geller eye shadow kit that looks good enough to eat, Nordstrom's halls are decked with boughs of beauty. Plus, the department store offers fantastic services with experts to help you get ready for holiday parties. Of course, you can (and should!) go HAM on those pricey, once-in-a-lifetime holiday offerings. But if you're on a budget, it's not impossible to find the cutest little trinkets starting at just $25.
Ahead, find the best presents for friends, family, and, yes, yourself - all waiting for you to scoop them up in the Nordstrom beauty aisles.
12 YouTube Tutorials That Will Convince You to DIY Your Bridal Makeup
Once the initial excitement of planning a wedding wears off, most brides are faced with a tough reality: the wedding they've seen all over Pinterest may be out of their budget. But with some adjustments, any girl can have her dream day without forking over her life savings - with a little thriftiness, that is.
One of the best ways to save money without compromising on the ceremony or afterparty is by doing your makeup yourself (or convincing a trusted friend to do it for you). While choosing - and applying - bridal makeup yourself may sound daunting, it's much easier than you may think. Every bride wants makeup that feels classic, makes her glow, and will stand up against flash photography and a day of festivities, so it's really just finding the products and techniques that will help you achieve these makeup goals. Plus, you know your own face better than anyone!
To cover your bases, we've rounded up our favorite bridal tutorials aimed at those looking to DIY their big-day makeup. With these videos as your secret weapon, any bride can complete a look that she will love both the day of and for years to come.
Greens + Chicken = Your New Go-To Healthy Meal
If there's one food that's most definitively associated with healthy eating, it's salad. And if there's one food that should be your go-to for diet-friendly lunches or dinners, it should be a salad topped with chicken.
By combining one of the leanest proteins with the OG healthy meal, you're ensuring that what you're eating is not only healthy - it's also delicious. And with the recipes below, you'll never run out of options - from upgrades on classics to inventive varieties all their own, these salad recipes prove that creative salads are making boring greens a thing of the past.
9 Easy Ways to Add Instant Brightness to a Dark Room
Not every home is flooded with natural light, but luckily these decorating tricks can make a huge difference. No demolition necessary - it's all about optical illusions that add instant brightness!
The 14 Fantasy Series Every Bookworm Must Read
Looking for the ultimate list of geeky reads? Ahead, we're highlighting our editor's picks for must-read epic fantasy series, with all the elements of the genre: a large cast of characters, a magical alternative world, and complex, integrated plotlines. And if science fiction is more your thing, bookmark our guide to the greatest sci-fi reads too.
Yes, Victoria's Secret Angels Get Pimples - and This Is How They Deal!
You know the bride who gets the massive zit before her wedding because she's nervous? Well, some of the Victoria's Secret Angels walking in the 2017 Fashion Show in Shanghai are those brides - theoretically speaking. When I asked them about pimple care, I expected them to admit they consistently have clean skin. Maybe it's naive, but they look like goddesses IRL!
Instead, they authentically pointed out the blemishes on their faces and got real about acne care. Keep reading to learn what these mega models do to cover zits before their big event.
Selena Gomez's New Hair Took 9 Hours and 8 Bowls of Bleach
We all collectively gasped in admiration when lifelong chocolate brunette Selena Gomez debuted a new icy blond shade at the American Music Awards. We wouldn't blame you if it inspired you to immediately book an appointment with your colorist. If you plan to take the platinum plunge, however, you should come prepared. Thankfully, the woman behind Selena's new hue filled us in on the quite grueling process.
Riawna Capri, who tag-teamed with Nikki Lee, revealed on Instagram that the "Nirvana Blonde" shade took "9 hours, about 300 foils, and 8 bowls of bleach, all with two stylist[s] working together simultaneously." DAMN.
She continued, "It was a nice, long patient process of baby fine slices, then going back and opening each foil and reapplying, but done in one sitting." Addressing fellow stylists, she assured that "anything is possible in one day, it just takes time, no other clients ha, and patience to maintain the integrity of the hair."
As for her advice to aspiring platinum blondes out there, Riawna urges you to "be VERY patient with your stylist." For hair as chic as Selena's? Anything.
11 Helpful Tips For Traveling on Your Period
Barring an "OMG, my period is late!" freak-out, is there really any good time to start getting those tell-tale uterine twitches and profuse bleeding? Well, no, not really. However, "when you're traveling" surely has to be up there as one of the worst times. Especially if you're constantly on the go or in a remote destination where toilets and sanitary products are trickier to come by. With that in mind, here are the best tips for dealing with your period while traveling.
1. Have your period product(s) of choice on hand at all times
This might actually be something you always do back home, but if you're constantly swapping between bags or just plain prone to leaving the house with everything you own shoved in your pockets, you might want to start carrying a period stash. Shove a few tampons or pads in each bag you have with you and even one or two in your coat pockets for good measure.
2. Carry an emergency kit featuring wet wipes and plastic bags
As anyone who's ever had a period knows, period paranoia is real. (Can everyone see my pad? Have I leaked? Can everyone smell that?) Long story short, periods can leave you feeling just plain gross, so carrying wet wipes to freshen up with (or use instead of toilet paper) will leave you feeling much more relaxed. And the plastic bags? Well, they'll give you somewhere to throw your used products or stained pants if there's no bin in sight. On that note, carry some spare underwear too.
3. Plan ahead
Maybe you're a fan of pads and find that swimming is off limits when it's that time of the month, or maybe your cramps leave adventure activities at the bottom of your to-do list. Whatever your period tolerance and preference, planning ahead (if possible) can let you prepare accordingly and do everything you want while on vacation. (Then again, periods aren't as limiting as some tampon ads would have you believe, so take this advice with a grain of salt.)
4. Consider investing in a menstrual cup
Some people already fall firmly into Camp Menstrual Cup when it comes to period products, whereas others just can't get the hang of the damn things. However, it's worth giving one a go when traveling, given that they can be left in place far longer than tampons and, if inserted correctly, leakage potential is low. Plus, you'll save a ton of money in the long run and never have to worry about being stuck bleeding in the middle of a tampon wasteland. Still not sold on the idea? Try one of the reusable pad brands instead or pick up some period-proof underwear.
5. Or learn to (at least temporarily) embrace pads
Maybe pads aren't your period product of choice (or maybe they are!), but given that tampons aren't the norm everywhere, chances are they might be your only option at one point or another during your travels. Learn to love them, even just for a day or two, before you can stock up on your tampon of choice in a supermarket.
6. Don't forget about painkillers
Bleeding isn't the only unpleasant side effect of your period, and cramps can leave you crippled. So instead of curling up in bed all day and doing very little else, pack some pain-relief products (like a travel-size hot water bottle and ibuprofen) to see off the aches and lethargy.
7. Do a little presightseeing exercise
Alternatively, light exercise is known to help cut cramps and ease period pains, so give 15 minutes of yoga a try, go for a jog to help see off the cramps before they take hold, or just power through and get out and about. After all, all that on-foot sightseeing you're probably about to do is likely to take your mind off the cramps and help ease them in one fell swoop. Score.
8. Don't freak out if your timings and flow go haywire
Some flight attendants claim that their flow is lighter in the air before returning with a vengeance when they step back on terra firma. And anyone who travels regularly probably knows that your regular period routine can vanish at the slight hint of a long-distance flight or some pretravel stress. Basically, try and keep track of your period, but don't freak out if it comes late.
9. Maybe skip the skinny jeans
Obviously, this is entirely personal preference, but a period combined with tight jeans and (possible) hot and sweaty weather equals a higher chance of developing an annoying case of a yeast infection due to moisture down there. No one wants one on a good day, never mind while traveling and on your period. Therefore, steer clear of the skinnies and maybe swap to looser trousers for your heaviest days (this can also help you avoid bleeding right through every layer you're wearing too).
10. Give yourself a break
You're on holiday, or you've been traveling for some time, and your period strikes, but no matter what steps you take to power through, you feel like utter sh*t. If this is the case, don't beat yourself up about it. Take a guilt-free day to lounge around your hostel (or hotel, tent, whatever) and let yourself rest. You'll maybe have some residual guilt about "wasting" a day, but you'll thank yourself for it in the long run. Plus, everyone knows sleep cures everything.
11. Or just DON'T travel on your period
I'm not saying you should lock yourself away like a Victorian housewife while you're dealing with your downstairs disaster zone, but, if you're on the pill, you could skip the whole "traveling on your period" debacle completely. Yes, moving straight onto your next pack of pills is a legitimate option for dealing with monthly bleeding while you travel, but it's probably best to get the go-ahead from your doctor first.
25 Drive-Through Hacks For Healthy Ordering on the Go
Look: we're not suggesting you run to the drive-through right now. That's not our intent with this. Now that that's out of the way, let's talk about a realistic situation.
You're on the go, out with friends, or traveling, and there's nowhere to stop. You haven't packed food, and you're starving. You search for an option around you, but there's nothing but fast food, and you're trying to eat healthy, or you're on a diet. What do you do?
You're not totally stuck! There are some healthier options that won't totally sabotage your diet - in fact, some of these are loaded with protein and nutrients. Here's to finding the best in a bad situation!
Dance Your Blues Away With This Feel-Good Cardio Workout
You're going to love this cardio dance workout! It torches calories but feels more like a party than a sweat session. Amanda Kloots, creator of The Dance, keeps you moving for a solid 30 minutes and incorporates some arm dancing that will get your shoulders burning in the best way possible. Press play and get ready to dance your blues away.
Wardrobe Credit:
On Amanda: BodyLanguage outfit
On Rachel: Wear It to Heart outfit
On Jenny: MPG Sport top and Noli Yoga tights
All shoes by Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL)
Cheeky water bottles
Why You Shouldn't Care If I Cosleep With My Baby or Kid
For some reason, people are very passionate about commenting on other parents' sleep decisions. When I've mentioned that my daughter sometimes sleeps with me, the look some parents, strangers, family members, and friends give me is the look that suggests I am breaking one of the 10 commandments, and while I'm not a religious person, I'm pretty sure there was no rule that said, "Thou Shalt Not Sleep in the Same Bed as Thy Children," but maybe I missed something. Hey, I never went to CCD or Hebrew school. Anything is possible.
To the judgy parents, the condescending people, and the smirky looks upon random strangers' faces, I say, what gives? Why all the fuss about my 4-year-old going to bed in her mom's bed? Will the world end if we do this? Will she become a rotten monster from snuggle time with her mother? Is your life impacted by my choice?
Empathetically, no.
My daughter and I cosleep from time to time because she's become a bit afraid of the dark in her brand-new room in her brand-new home with me. My daughter and I cosleep because we miss each other when she is with her dad. Dad and I are getting a divorce and share custody. Sometimes, I just miss my baby and see how fast she is growing up whether I want her to or not. Sometimes, I miss the days when she nursed and only napped on me, her mother.
Sleep isn't just comforting for children, but it's also comforting for us. Think of how great you feel after a long exhausting day of being Mom, and then there you are in cozy flannel sheets, snuggled up with a glass of wine and unwinding with a good book or show. Where you sleep is a place to relax. Where your kids sleep is a place to relax. Pair these two elements together, and it's not shocking that many children want to sleep with their parents and sometimes, vice versa.
In the "olden days," people slept together for warmth, and it wasn't unusual or frowned upon for kids to sleep with their parents. These days, our generation of parents seems divided: some are fiercely against cosleeping, and others are in complete support of the practice. Many parents who cosleep with their children also practice other elements of attachment parenting, but no matter what side of the fence you are on, what I have to ask is: why does anyone care what other parents do in regards to sleep?
If you don't want to cosleep, then don't, but don't add your two cents on my situation with my child.
Don't roll your eyes and tell me I will never get my child out of my bed.
Do you really think my daughter and her first adult boyfriend or her husband will be cozying up to me in my bed?
Do you really think that my child, after she gets her first period, will want to snuggle with me night and day? I will be lucky if she doesn't banish me to some teenage silent code.
While safe cosleeping practices - especially with infants - are imperative, children are children once. And by the way, you'll notice if you're a parent or were ever a kid, which is um, everyone, that children are dependent. Children need their parents. Babies need their parents. Babies and kids are needy beings, as they're supposed to be. Eventually, they grow to be independent if we do our jobs right, and they won't need us anymore. In the meantime, however, they need us, and some of them need us more at night than others. Heck, sometimes I need my daughter's snuggles more than she needs mine. The reality is: our babies and kids need us, and if they need us at bedtime and we decide to safely cosleep with our children, we are meeting their needs, which is exactly what our job description as parents entails!
Some people feel the need to push, push, and push their kids to grow up so fast and force them into independence instead of doing it as the child is ready. To me, honoring my daughter's requests (when I see fit) to join me at night is the way I am making her feel supported and safe, so she feels confident to move into independence and not pushed. So far? My kid is independent, strong, and securely attached to me. I would say I've scored three gold stars - wouldn't you?
And the bottom line is I don't care if your kids sleep with you or without you. I don't care if they sleep in a bed, a crib, or wherever. What you do in your home is your business, and as long as it's not hurting a child, then go for it! However, refrain from your eye rolls, your commentary, and your scornful looks when it comes to how I raise my kid in my home. Whether you know me or not, your opinion is not needed unless I've asked for it.
So pardon me, but if cosleeping is a crime of sorts, I guess I am committing a criminal offense for engaging in the practice, but somehow, my daughter's smiling face when I announce that tonight is a special night to sleep in "Mommy's bed" indicates otherwise to me.
Sorry, but I'm not sorry.
16 Fierce Zumba-Inspired Workouts on YouTube That You Can (and Should) Do at Home
Love to Zumba? Good news: you don't need a gym membership or a Groupon to get in on the hip-shaking (and calorie-burning!) fun. Plenty of certified Zumba instructors actually upload their choreography to YouTube for anyone to follow along. The obvious downside is not having anyone there to point out your mistakes, but if you have two left feet, you might just view that as a positive.
Either way, trying out a new workout is a great way to jumpstart your healthy 2017 goals! Keep scrolling to follow along as these professionals demonstrate superhot routines set to some of your favorite Latin songs. Then, turn up our extra-motivating playlist.
- Additional reporting by Alessandra Foresto
9 US Cities That Will Make You Feel Like You're in Europe
While seemingly everyone wants to jet-set off to Europe for a grand adventure, there are a few towns in the US that bring the adventure closer to home. From Germany to Greece, the US has some amazing places that look almost identical to the real thing. Start saving your money - you'll want to check out all of these places for an experience that's anything but domestic.
29 DIY Gifts For All the Guys in Your Life
Not sure what to get the special men in your life for the holidays? We've totally been there and know the struggle of trying to pick out a great gift that they'll actually use, but we've got just the solution! Think about it . . . what's better than receiving a gift? Receiving a gift made specifically for you! So, in the spirit of the gifting season, we've rounded up 29 DIY gifts that aren't just suitable for your boyfriend; they're perfect for your brother and your dad, too!
Cure Your Skin Care Woes and Pumpkin Cravings With a DIY Face Mask
It's officially pumpkin season! Sure, you're already hooked on pumpkin spice lattes and have made a date in your calendar to find the perfect jack o'lantern, but are you aware of the benefits that this iconic squash can provide to your skin? Packed with zinc, antioxidants, and vitamins, pumpkins protect your skin from wrinkles and age spots as well as gently exfoliating for a more radiant complexion. Don't have a pumpkin patch nearby? You can get this orange fruit (yup, it's a fruit!) in a can at your local supermarket.
- Make your base: Whisk together about 1/4 cup of pumpkin and one whole egg. The yolk adds nourishment while the white provides a subtle tightening effect to sagging skin.
- Dry skin additive: Add a few teaspoons of honey, which not only seals in moisture, but prevents breakouts thanks to its antibacterial properties.
- Oily skin additive: For an astringent effect, mix in a splash of apple cider or cranberry juice.
- Apply: Smooth the pumpkin-y potion over your face, relax for 15 to 20 minutes, and rinse to reveal a brighter, firmer, smoother complexion.
Say Hello to Liu Yifei, the Star of Disney's Live-Action Mulan Adaptation
Image Source: Everett Collection and Getty / Pascal Le Segretain
After months of searching, Disney has finally unveiled the actress who will bring the iconic role of Hua Mulan to life in its live-action adaptation of the 1998 animated classic: Liu Yifei! For any fans who were nervous that Disney might attempt to whitewash the character, we can all breathe a sigh of relief.
The 30-year-old (who also goes by the name Crystal Liu) hails from the Wuhan, Hubei, province of China, but is fluent in English from time spent living in Queens, NY, during part of her childhood. Like the studio's exhaustive search for the stars of its live-action Aladdin movie, Yifei went up against more than 1,000 actresses for the role. It's obvious that both Disney and director Niki Caro saw something special in Yifei, who already has a pretty lengthy résumé.
The actress grew up singing, dancing, and playing the piano and later turned this talent into a full-fledged career as a singer in China. She released two albums in 2006 - All My Words and Liu Yifei - and recently appeared on the soundtrack of her 2016 drama So Young 2: So You're Still Here. Luckily, it seems she has the musical chops to handle all of the songs in Mulan.
Although she has a passion for music, Yifei's career truly skyrocketed once she focused on acting. A 40-episode stint on the Chinese TV show The Return of the Condor Heroes garnered her tons of popularity, as well as the nickname "Fairy Sister" by the Chinese public (for her innocent image and delicate features). She's since gone on to star in 2008's The Forbidden Kingdom alongside Jackie Chan and Jet Li, and then 2014's Outcast with Nicolas Cage and Hayden Christensen. Her work has earned her both an HKSC award and a Golden Lotus.
Image Source: Everett Collection
If you want a preview of Yifei on the big screen before Mulan comes out in 2019, she's set to appear in Inversion with Samuel L. Jackson next year. She'll play a physicist trying to save the earth from a terrifying loss of gravity, which is only slightly more impressive than saving all of China.
She's Gotta Have It Nails Why We Need More Depictions of Black Female Sexuality
Spike Lee's latest jaunt is an explosive reboot of his 1986 film She's Gotta Have It. In the sexy Netflix update, Lee really dives into the characters he created over 30 years ago in a 10-episode series that soaks in every inch of Brooklyn while telling the stories of the melanin-rich characters who live there.
Even so, truly not enough words can be said to describe the show's main character, Nola Darling, whose sexual exploits are just as timely as ever. Nola is a living embodiment of the direct opposition to any negative stereotypes ever spoken about black people and, especially, black women. She's arguably the heroine all women need and an accurate representation of the millennial woman, which is nothing short of refreshing.
She shamelessly has four lovers (aspiring rapper Mars Blackmon, played by Anthony Ramos, father and husband Jamie Overstreet, played by Lyriq Bent, model and narcissist Greer Childs, played by Cleo Anthony, and single mom Opal Gilstrap, played by Ilfenesh Hadera). Lee doesn't shy away from the fact that if she were a man juggling multiple lovers, it would make her a "player," but instead she gets labeled as promiscuous or a "freak."
Sexism is still alive and well. America's president is a self-proclaimed grabber of women's genitals and the Harvey Weinsteins and Kevin Spaceys of the world are getting called out for exerting their power to sexually harass and assault.
However, Nola is not only challenging how women are viewed when it comes to their bodies and sexuality, but she's also a living and breathing example of the lifestyle many women live that society still refuses to accept. The self-proclaimed "sex-positive polyamorous pansexual" Brooklyn artist is a single woman with agency over her own body who enjoys sex (which she has a lot of) and is unapologetically feminist.
Yet, it is 2017 and black women are not often celebrated for being sexual or even shown as multifaceted beings who are capable of so much more than a one-dimensional sexuality. Instead, black women on screen are subjects of the male gaze (Belly, Think Like a Man) or they fall prey to fetishization for being overtly sexual (Foxy Brown, Monster Ball) or they just lack of sexuality altogether (Bonnie in Big Little Lies). Usually, the roles of the sexually adventurous woman are reserved for white women when on screen, whether TV (Sex and The City, Broad City, or Girls) or film (Savages, Basic Instinct, Bad Teacher, etc.).
But if the huge success of Girls Trip this past Summer is indicative of anything, it's that black women love sex, they're tired of being possessed or objectified, and they support film and TV shows with honest portrayals of black womanhood.
In this case, not only does Nola "gotta have it," but so do other black women who expressed absolute glee at being able to see themselves on the small screen.
She's Gotta Have It is a must see. Definitely shows the perfect depiction of sexual liberation, spirituality, gentrification, double standards, art, being a black woman in society, struggling to make ends meet, and everything in between. Please please pleaseeee watch!
- coffeeshopconvos.com (@taracamille_) November 27, 2017
She's Gotta Have It on Netflix is excellent. Spike Lee came back to remind folks he was ahead of his time in the 80s. Focused on Sexual liberation and public respect for Black women before it became popular.
- TheAbstract (@AltBoosterGold) November 24, 2017
Everyone please watch "she's gotta have it" on Netflix. I feel like this bitch is me 😭 it's a great show tbh
- Art Plug 🔌 ✨ (@xEnoughSaidx) November 25, 2017
So I just started #ShesGottaHaveIt on Netflix and I love Nola so far, but I believe it's because the actress herself is stunning, and I love her art and how she lives life on her terms. Let's see how I feel as characters develop.
- Ashley D. (@MsAshleyDevonna) November 27, 2017
Nola's story isn't representative of every black woman, or every woman, period, but it's a stark contrast to the narratives that have been present in the media and cinema thus far, and for that, it's worth the binge.
Um, So, Everyone Thinks Superman's CGI Face in Justice League Looks Like Human Shrek
Before you even start, it's hardly a spoiler that Superman is in Justice League - he's on the movie poster!
Reactions to Justice League have been extreme, to say the least. While critics have mostly panned Warner Bros.'s latest foray into the DCEU (it currently holds a 37% on Rotten Tomatoes), diehard fans insist it's not so bad. Fortunately there's one aspect of the superhero film everyone seems to agree on: those bikinis are extremely sexist Henry Cavill looks like human Shrek.
Wait . . . what?
Over the Summer, Justice League underwent some reshoots that happened to conflict with Cavill's upcoming role in M:I 6 - Mission Impossible, for which he'd grown a striking mustache. Instead of, I don't know, just shaving it off and wearing a fake one for M:I 6 since Clark Kent/Superman obviously can't have a big mustache, Cavill kept the facial hair throughout his JL reshoots (he was reportedly forbade by Paramount to get rid of it). So, some genius at Warner Bros. then had the bright idea to just get rid of Cavill's mustache in postproduction with CGI.
That brings us back to human Shrek. Yes, human Shrek. Remember in Shrek 2 when the titular ogre is transformed into a "handsome" human man? Well, since the lower half of Cavill's face is CGI'd over in Justice League, it gives him a kind of uncanny valley appearance. In other words, he kind of, sort of, looks like Shrek does as a human. It's unsettling.
Fortunately for all of us, Twitter had some thoughts on the CGI disaster.
Healthy Desserts Are a Real Thing Because This World Is a Beautiful Place
You don't need processed or refined sugar to have a delicious dessert, and believe it or not, there are healthy desserts out there. In fact, we have at least 70!
These recipes feature one of many aspects: try our vegan, gluten-free, Paleo, low-calorie, protein-packed, or dairy-free treats to have a lightened up, seriously delicious treat without undoing your diet. And yes, there's plenty of chocolate and ice cream to be had. Dig in!
Ice Cream and Frozen Treats
Pudding
Candies and Small Bites
Cookies
Bars
Muffins and Breads
Sweet Protein Balls
All the Places You Can Watch Fixer Upper Right Now
HGTV announced in September that everyone's favorite home improvement show, Fixer Upper, is ending after the next season. Season five will be the last set of new episodes for Texas couple Chip and Joanna Gaines. Nooooo!
Of course, it's understandable that the Gaines's might want a break. They recently revealed that they film the series 11 months out of the year, and it hasn't left a lot of time for family activities. Plus, their fame has led to several other expansive business opportunities, like their own home store, bakery, and real estate agency, so Chip and Joanna definitely have their hands full.
But if you want to keep reliving the gorgeous renovation projects (and also the Gaines's adorable family life on their Texas farm), here are your options for watching previous seasons.
- Old episodes are rebroadcast all the time on HGTV, including a marathon that is running all day on Nov. 21, the day of the season five premiere. Check your local TV listings for all broadcast times.
- A handful of episodes are available to stream on the HGTV website.
- Sling TV streaming service offers HGTV live and on-demand with its most basic package, which runs $20/mo.
- The first three seasons of Fixer Upper are available to stream on Hulu.
- The first four seasons of the home renovation show are available for purchase on Amazon Prime.
But take heart, fans. Season five will run for 19 episodes, plus the spinoff series, Fixer Upper: Behind the Design, is debuting in May 2018.
We Won't Get an Answer to That Grey's Anatomy Cliffhanger Until 2018
Well, we've got good news and bad news. The bad news is that season 14 of Grey's Anatomy is over, for now. The good news is that it's coming back a lot sooner than you might think!
On Thursday night, the long-running medical drama aired its Fall finale, leaving fans with a massive cliffhanger. A bitcoin-demanding computer hacker (aka "some Cheeto-stained pirate nerd," if you're asking Bailey) plunges Grey Sloan Memorial into disaster by taking the electronics that keep the hospital running offline. The FBI is called in to crack the case, while Jo and Karev race to save the life of a young kid. In true Grey's fashion, his fate is left up in the air thanks to an unexpected arrival.
Fortunately, we won't have to wait too long to find out what happens following that fade to black. New episodes of Grey's Anatomy will return to the ABC lineup on Thursday, Jan. 18. In the meantime, why not check out some Meredith Grey-approved books?
The 1 Move That Made Me a Better Mom, Instantly
I love Facebook. Like a lot. So much so that I found myself spending all sorts of time looking at it, searching it, and bringing it into just about every conversation. Something had to give. Except that I did not want to be one of those folks who says, "I'm done!" and then ridicules everyone else still stuck on Fakebook. Because the truth is that I do think that social media is a wonderful thing. Heck, I kind of love Facebook. I just needed to ease up the amount of time I was spending on it. So I decided to keep my account but delete the app from my phone. I can still check in on my computer as often as I want, but do I? Rarely. And the effect of this simple decision went far beyond improving my mental state; it also improved my maternal state. It may sound crazy, but I know I'm a better mom now that I don't have 24/7 access to my Facebook news feed. Here's why.
You Won't Believe These Are Even the Same White Sneakers Thanks to This Cleaning Hack
Image Source: Unsplash / Haley Phelps
Sometimes when I buy white sneakers, I consider getting two pairs at the same time because I envision what those pristine shoes will soon look like after a few wears. Sparkling white turns to a weird grayish brown in no time, and try as I might, my attempts at cleaning them have never done the trick.
Twitter user sarahtraceyy may have just solved the problems of every white-shoe-lover with a simple cleaning hack that's a game changer.
I am a miracle worker http://pic.twitter.com/BeivqBtdrv
- halloween queen (@sarahtraceyy) October 15, 2017
She shared a before-and-after photo of her Converses, and it's hard to believe they are even the same pair of shoes. After being showered with a Twitter storm of questions, she shared her secrets with the world.
ok rinse shoes, mix 1:1.5 of baking soda & detergent, scrub w toothbrush, let it sit for a while, rinse, put in washer, baby powder/dry🌞 https://t.co/D5Skp5ha3x
- halloween queen (@sarahtraceyy) October 15, 2017
Sounds easy enough! She advises you to first rinse the sneakers, then mix one part baking soda and one and a half parts regular laundry detergent together, and simply scrub the shoes with a toothbrush. After letting them sit, she then rinsed her shoes in water and put them in the washer. She finished off the DIY by putting baby powder on the sneakers and letting them dry. Keep in mind these are specifically white cloth sneakers, so the DIY would need to be tweaked for something like white leather shoes.
Try out this cleaning trick on your white shoes, and make them look like new!
The Totally Relatable Reason Kelly Clarkson Says Having Kids "Brought Fear to Her Life"
Kelly Clarkson has definitely been kicking ass this year between raising her two kiddos, River Rose, 3, and Remington, 1, and releasing her new - and totally incredible - album, Meaning of Life. But despite all of her successes, she has the same parenting anxieties that every mom and dad experience from time to time. In a recent interview with Redbook, Kelly explained exactly why having kids keeps her up at night:
"Literally, having children has brought fear to my life. That sounds horrible, I know, but before kids I was fearless. Now I go to bed and I have nightmares of someone just grabbing my little girl and running. It's always about me not being able to protect my kids somehow. I'm a mama bear."
And just like every other parent on the planet, when her kiddo is hurting, she feels the pain too. "Just recently our nanny told me that an older kid was mean to my daughter at the park and that she just crumbled," she said. "I'm glad I wasn't there, because I wouldn't have handled that well. I totally went off on that 6-year-old in my head!"
The 1 Thing You Should Try Adding to Your Scrambled Eggs
Some people add milk to their scrambled eggs, some prefer heavy cream, and some scramble them in bacon fat. Even if you think you've tried it all, there's one sneaky ingredient you might not have added before, and that's worcestershire sauce. I found this idea in a Facebook comment on our post about how chefs scramble eggs, and I knew I wanted to try it myself because I'm a huge fan of the incredibly savory condiment. The sauce, which is typically used for steak and Bloody Marys, is made of anchovies (yes, really), garlic, vinegar, molasses, salt, onions, chili peppers, and other spices.
So how does it taste in scrambled eggs? It's interesting, but in a good way - I totally approve. I recommend adding 1/4 teaspoon of worcestershire sauce per two eggs and whisking everything together well before cooking your eggs low and slow. The sauce is already really salty, so you don't need to add any more salt. The eggs develop a slightly tangy, smoky, umami-rich flavor that's unlike any scrambled egg I've had before. If you have worcestershire sauce on hand anyway, give this a try. It just might become your favorite scrambled eggs recipe.
11 Glitter Lipsticks That Will Sparkle All the Way Across the Room
The holidays are one of the glitziest, most glittery seasons of all. Your tree's decked out and you've got lights up, so why not play up your pout with more of the same? From sheer, Champagne-inspired gloss and twinkling topcoats to lipstick that literally catches light, these products will ensure that you're ready for all of the selfies.
The 1 Floral Scent Both Kate Middleton and Princess Diana Wore For Their Weddings
Image Source: Getty
To paraphrase The Devil Wears Prada, florals for a Spring wedding may not exactly be groundbreaking, but, according to Marie Claire UK, the scent has been good enough for the past two royal weddings. As it turns out, both Princess Diana and Kate Middleton both reached for two different (and extremely luxurious) flower fragrances.
When Princes Diana walked down the aisle to marry Prince Charles on July 29, 1981, millions of people watched. So it would make sense that the 20-year-old, who has reportedly only been on 12 dates with her future husband, would get a little nervous. As legend has it, Princess Diana was so shaky that she spilled her perfume, Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant Paris ($190), all over herself - and her now-famous dress.
The scent, which was supposedly her go-to, can still be purchased today - but it sounds almost too extravagant to spray. That's because one ounce of Quelques Fleurs is made up of around 15,000 flowers. The florals in question are rose, orange blossom, and lily of the valley. (Remember that last ingredient!)
When Kate Middleton became a Duchess on April 29, 2011, she chose a softer, more tropical tone. As per usual with any beauty product Kate Middleton uses, Illuminum's White Gardenia Petals sold out pretty much instantly once it was revealed to be the royal wedding fragrance.
Perhaps this choice included a small nod to Kate's late mother-in-law, as it carries a top note of lily. Brides-to-be: guess it's time to stock up on lily?
Add Festive Flair to Your Hair With This Sparkling Tinsel Rope Braid DIY
We've always had a special place in our holiday-loving hearts for tinsel. That's because it speaks to two of our greatest loves: low-maintenance decorating and sparkle. Just slap a bit of it on your Christmas tree and you'll immediately be surrounded by a more festive atmosphere.
Tinsel isn't just pretty on pine boughs, though. In recent years, celebrities like Beyoncé have been incorporating the shiny stuff into their hair! We tapped lead stylist Jen Bennett of Rudy's Barbershop to whip up a whimsical, half-up rope braid DIY weaving in glimmering strands of tinsel. It's so simple to re-create that you'll likely find yourself rocking it well into the New Year. Read on to master the steps.
What Diversity and Inclusion in Modeling Means to 9 Victoria's Secret Angels
With 55 models representing 20 countries cast in the 2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Shanghai, it was bound to be the most diverse cast yet. And when we spoke with the models backstage before they show, they were feeling empowered by these stats.
Plus, lead hairstylist Anthony Nadar and Tom Pecheaux made sure to embrace the models' natural beauty and features. For hair, Nadar gave most models glam bombshell waves using a blow dryer, extensions, and a curling iron. While this style looks gorgeous on many, it can damage natural hair. So anyone who has curly hair was able to rock their god-given texture. On the makeup side, Pecheaux cocktails Victoria's Secret Velvet Matte Lio Cream Stains to create bespoke nude shades for each model.
Here, nine models weighed in on what being in the most diverse roster yet means to them.
17 Universal Red Lipsticks, No Matter Your Skin's Undertone
Wearing red lipstick can be terrifying (for me, it's exhilarating!). But before I got comfortable rocking ruby, I was intimidated by it. When you have a bold pout, it demands attention.
It can also be difficult to find your perfect shade of red. The makeup aisles and counters are packed with different iterations of red. Some are more pink, while others have more blue and purple undertones. And if you don't have the time, energy, or interest to work with a pro to find your ideal pick, then just go with a universally flattering red.
Dr. Victoria Fraser, the director of scientific communications in consumer beauty at COTY (formerly at Procter & Gamble) works with CoverGirl. The drugstore brand launched a red shade that fits into this category. She explains the theory behind why these red work for everyone.
"A universal red is a share that hits the sweet spot between cool tones and warm tones in what we call the color space," she told me at a recent beauty event. "So the hue is in between the two. What this means is if your skin has cool undertones or warm undertones, you can still wear it, and it's going to look great. Because that's often the challenge women have when finding something that works with their skin tones."
I also wanted to know what the shade actually looks like. "If you were to look at it, there would be no obvious pink undertones or blue undertones," she explained. "And there is no obvious sort of yellow. It's not a post box sort of red." (The post box is a reference to mailboxes in London.)
When I looked into it, I discovered that many brands at a multitude of price points have created universal reds. Keep reading to discover a rouge you can pull off, no matter your complexion!
What Did George W. Bush Say to Barack Obama to Make Him Lose It? An Investigation
Image Source: Getty / Rick Kern
Former President Barack Obama is known for his composed and even-keeled disposition. At a recent hurricane relief event hosted by One America Appeal, however, Obama absolutely lost it. It all went down when George W. Bush leaned in to whisper something in his ear.
The viral moment - shown in the video below at the 3:30 mark - didn't come at a great time either. At that exact moment, Bill Clinton was speaking about the immense damage caused by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria. What is it that Bush could have possibly said to make Obama break his usual professional facade?
Though we're unable to read Bush's lips since he's obscured by Clinton, we have a few ideas. "Calamitous? Now that's a big word," the 43rd president might have said. Perhaps he assured Obama that his speech would kill it following Clinton's. Maybe it was an inside joke. In our wildest dreams, it was a dig at the current president missing from the event. We may never know, but at least we'll always have this clip.
Drop Everything - Yankee Candle Now Makes Advent Calendars!
There are so many lovely things about the holidays, including the excuse to burn candles in every corner of your home for comfort, warmth, and embracing the festive "hygge" lifestyle. But why go the usual route and buy one big votive when your favorite brand has a candle-filled Advent calendar to last you all December long? That's right - Yankee Candle makes Advent calendars, and they're exactly as incredible as you'd imagine!
Filled with a different tealight scent for every day, these "Christmas Countdown" calendars are perfect for anybody who can't commit to a favorite holiday aroma. Because each tealight can burn for four to six hours, that means you can light a different candle every evening of the Winter holidays! Check out the calendar options and see how Yankee Candle-lovers are enjoying their Advents as the holiday season approaches.
58 Tween Gifts That Will Prove You Actually Know What's Cool
When it comes to shopping for tweens, some parents might feel a bit out of their depths (tweens are, after all, mysterious creatures). If you're confused about what's trendy and can't think of anything to wrap for the holidays this year, we're here to help you look like you're picking up what the kids are putting down - and more importantly, gain some cool points with your kid and their friends.
Scroll through for 58 tween gifts that will prove you know what's up this holiday season.
Every Single Glorious Tech Gadget From Oprah's Favorite Things List
Oprah's Favorite Things list for 2017 is finally here, which means the holiday season has officially begun and it's time to get shopping! Ahead, we've pulled out each and every one of those must-have tech gadgets that our favorite gift-giver has highlighted this year - and remember, you can always buy two of each and keep one for yourself. 'Tis now (officially) the season to treat yourself, after all!
Every Single Glorious Tech Gadget From Oprah's Favorite Things List
Oprah's Favorite Things list for 2017 is finally here, which means the holiday season has officially begun and it's time to get shopping! Ahead, we've pulled out each and every one of those must-have tech gadgets that our favorite gift-giver has highlighted this year - and remember, you can always buy two of each and keep one for yourself. 'Tis now (officially) the season to treat yourself, after all!
7 Surprising Reasons You Have Dark Circles Under Your Eyes
We all know that a night or two of minimal sleep or putting in extra hours at the office can leave you looking more tired than usual. If you're used to seeing dark, puffy eyes upon waking up in the morning, listen up: there might be a few surprising reasons those circles are forming. While you can't exactly erase the aging process, with some lifestyle changes, you can slow it down and brighten your skin - no concealer required. Ahead, two top dermatologists break down which daily habits could be culprits and how to get rid of dark circles ASAP.
This Modern Take on Disney Princesses Will Make You Want to Be Their BFF
If the Disney princesses lived in 2017, we imagine that Pocahontas would have a job in the environmental sciences and practice painting in her all-natural garden during her free time. Belle would frequent coffee shops, reading poetry by long-dead artists and cleverly dodging the advances of heart-eyed baristas and tech bros. Snow White would be the founder and CEO of a successful startup for an on-demand housekeeping app called "Whistle." At least, that's the vibe we get from the works of talented Chilean artist Fernanda Suarez, who has been sharing stunning pieces from her "Modern Princess" collection.
The modern portraits highlight the unique characteristics of each princess with an undeniably 2017 twist. Between trendy clothing silhouettes and sultry Instagram-style poses, the princess portraits are entirely believable, and you'll find yourself wanting to be BFFs with the Disney royals as you look through them all.
We've gathered the stunning pieces of art here, and if you want to support Suarez in her craft, you can visit her Patreon page. We can't wait to see which princess she illustrates next!
There's a Reason This Wine Advent Calendar Totally Sold Out Last Year
I'm already a huge fan of Vinebox, a wine-by-the-glass subscription service that serves up vino in cool single-serve vials. So when I found out that the company is bringing back its "Twelve Nights of Wine" calendar again in 2017, I immediately hopped online to preorder my own. The glass-a-night advent calendar was so popular last year that it completely sold out within four weeks, and it's easy to see why.
Advent calendars are easily the best part of the holiday season. Free sh*t simply for waking up in the morning? Count me in, man. As a kid, I lived for the chocolate-filled advent calendars, giving me an excuse to have at least a tiny bit of dessert every day even when my parents were trying to teach me restraint. (An effort that clearly didn't work, considering that I write about cheesecake for a living now.) But now that I'm an adult, there's only one type of calendar that'll do as I count down to Christmas: the kind that's filled with booze.
Anyway, this is a great option for wine-lovers who can't get their hands on Aldi's popular, UK-exclusive advent calendar. The selection of 12 specially curated wines runs for $129 and comes in a special holiday box. Because of its popularity in 2016, Vinebox is offering the calendar on preorder starting Oct. 1 - which means you can set yourself up for a Winter of wine very soon.
The 15 Best Independent Bookstores in the US
When it's time to hit the road for a vacation, there are two things that bookworms know to be true. First of all, you can never pack too many books in your suitcase and carry-on (although those overweight luggage fees are definitely not on our side). The other is that, no matter where we go, it would be straight-up sacrilege to not visit any and all renowned independent bookstores in the vicinity.
With no disrespect to chain bookstores, there's nothing quite as magical as an independent bookstore. Each has its own unique atmosphere, decor, selection, and claim to fame, but they all have one thing in common - when a bookworm steps inside, we immediately know that we could spend an entire day there.
Despite the rise of e-readers, there's no shortage of incredible independent bookstores in America. In fact, some of us (*raises hand*) have even planned trips just so we can visit certain indies. Luckily, many of them are located in popular tourist destinations like New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. So before you head out on your next trip, check out this list of the 15 best independent bookstores in the country.
J.K. Rowling Completely Shuts Down Trump Rant With 1 Perfect Tweet
Image Source: Getty / Dan Kitwood
If there's one thing we can all agree on, it's that President Donald Trump does not react well to pressure - despite the fact that being POTUS is, effectively, taking on the most stressful job in the world. So on Oct. 29, as the world prepared itself for the expected announcement of the first indictment in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia probe, Trump did the most Trump-like thing imaginable: he tried to deflect public attention toward the former opponent whom he has not been in competition with for nearly a year.
Never seen such Republican ANGER & UNITY as I have concerning the lack of investigation on Clinton made Fake Dossier (now $12,000,000?),....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
...the Uranium to Russia deal, the 33,000 plus deleted Emails, the Comey fix and so much more. Instead they look at phony Trump/Russia,....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
..."collusion," which doesn't exist. The Dems are using this terrible (and bad for our country) Witch Hunt for evil politics, but the R's...
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
...are now fighting back like never before. There is so much GUILT by Democrats/Clinton, and now the facts are pouring out. DO SOMETHING!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
Thankfully, Twitter hero and all-around superstar J.K. Rowling had the perfect response to what can only be read as a total and complete meltdown on behalf of our nation's leader.
Nothing expresses calm confidence better than a caps-locked scream of 'DO SOMETHING!' http://pic.twitter.com/zXxTSmwTta
- J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 29, 2017
On Oct. 30, the indictment was made public and it was announced that two men who played pivotal roles in the Trump campaign - Paul Manafort and Rick Gates - were charged with 12 counts, including conspiracy against the US. And it was revealed that a third individual, former Trump foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos, had already pleaded guilty to making false statements.
In light of the fact that a mere announcement set off Trump in such a way, we can only imagine what will happen as these charges and the associated trials and public reporting unfold. Suffice it to say, we're going to see a whole lot more "calm confidence" in days to come - and we can only hope that Rowling will provide such spot-on commentary throughout.
J.K. Rowling Completely Shuts Down Trump Rant With 1 Perfect Tweet
Image Source: Getty / Dan Kitwood
If there's one thing we can all agree on, it's that President Donald Trump does not react well to pressure - despite the fact that being POTUS is, effectively, taking on the most stressful job in the world. So on Oct. 29, as the world prepared itself for the expected announcement of the first indictment in Special Counsel Robert Mueller's Russia probe, Trump did the most Trump-like thing imaginable: he tried to deflect public attention toward the former opponent whom he has not been in competition with for nearly a year.
Never seen such Republican ANGER & UNITY as I have concerning the lack of investigation on Clinton made Fake Dossier (now $12,000,000?),....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
...the Uranium to Russia deal, the 33,000 plus deleted Emails, the Comey fix and so much more. Instead they look at phony Trump/Russia,....
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
..."collusion," which doesn't exist. The Dems are using this terrible (and bad for our country) Witch Hunt for evil politics, but the R's...
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
...are now fighting back like never before. There is so much GUILT by Democrats/Clinton, and now the facts are pouring out. DO SOMETHING!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 29, 2017
Thankfully, Twitter hero and all-around superstar J.K. Rowling had the perfect response to what can only be read as a total and complete meltdown on behalf of our nation's leader.
Nothing expresses calm confidence better than a caps-locked scream of 'DO SOMETHING!' http://pic.twitter.com/zXxTSmwTta
- J.K. Rowling (@jk_rowling) October 29, 2017
On Oct. 30, the indictment was made public and it was announced that two men who played pivotal roles in the Trump campaign - Paul Manafort and Rick Gates - were charged with 12 counts, including conspiracy against the US. And it was revealed that a third individual, former Trump foreign policy adviser George Papadopoulos, had already pleaded guilty to making false statements.
In light of the fact that a mere announcement set off Trump in such a way, we can only imagine what will happen as these charges and the associated trials and public reporting unfold. Suffice it to say, we're going to see a whole lot more "calm confidence" in days to come - and we can only hope that Rowling will provide such spot-on commentary throughout.
7 Victoria's Secret Angels Share Their Holy Grail Eyebrow Products
Models are not just like us, especially Victoria's Secret Angels. They have muscular lean curves, gorgeous bombshell waves (or natural curls!), and often the lush-est eyebrows. These women don't make the mistake of overplucking; in fact, some of them told us backstage at the 2017 Victoria's Secret Fashion Show in Shanghai that they never even tweeze at all. Keep reading to learn more model-approved brow tips, as well as their go-to grooming products.
18 Workouts You Can Do Anywhere to Stay Fit and Sane While Traveling
Don't let holiday travel keep you from working out. After all, exercise can help reduce stress, and as fun as the holidays are, they are also stressful! Here are 18 workouts that require no equipment so you can do them anywhere - no excuses. There are cardio workouts you can do in your living room and bodyweight workouts to build strength without dumbbells. The workouts range from 15 minutes to just a little over 30 minutes, so you can find something that fits your busy schedule. Peruse through this collection of printable workouts and videos, and find one that works for you.
The Truth Behind Costco’s $5 Rotisserie Chicken
Image Source: Flickr user terren in Virginia
We can always count on Dr. Oz to expose the truth about our favorite foods. He recently investigated the hidden ingredients in rotisserie chicken, and now we finally know why it's so addictive. He teamed up with award-winning writer Mark Schatzker to figure out why Americans can't get enough of the stuff, especially Costco's $5 rotisserie chicken.
The first shocking piece of information is that rotisserie chicken is often processed, in other words, "pre-seasoned in factories," and then shipped to supermarkets, where "an employee can put it on the skewer and cook it." You may already know part of what makes store-bought rotisserie chickens so tasty is that they're on the salty side, but the skin is also flavored with MSG and sugar, among other natural flavors. Similar to potato chips, this combination helps explain why we can never have too much rotisserie chicken. Despite the seemingly scariness of it all, Dr. Oz says it may be "one of the healthiest processed foods out there." And in similar Dr. Oz. fashion, he suggests taking off the skin to keep it healthier. But if that sounds like insanity, add other sides to your plate to avoid overeating.
Image Source: The Dr. Oz. ShowWatch the full video: Dr. Oz on rotisserie chicken
Here's Every Step Megan Took to Lose 37 Pounds
After a trip to Las Vegas with her boyfriend, Kevin, and his sister, Lindsey, Megan realized just how uncomfortable she was in her own body. She decided that it was time to make a change in her health and lose weight together with her boyfriend and friend - it would be a team effort!
Megan: Before
Megan with her boyfriend, Kevin.
The three opted for Weight Watchers and individually have seen so much personal success, but they couldn't have done it without the strength of and support from their team effort. Ahead you'll see Megan's story detailing her 37-pound weight loss, read about her healthy-eating tips, hear some words of wisdom about ordering at restaurants (no shame!), and get some ideas for a new smartwatch fitness tracker.
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Megan Murphy: We [Megan, Kevin, and Lindsey] got back from Vegas and were reviewing photos from our trip, and I was disappointed with what I saw. That Summer had been a series of "quick fix" attempts at dropping some weight before events, and Vegas was no different. It had reached a point where I wasn't only upset with the photos but I was constantly uncomfortable with my body.
PS: What drew you to Weight Watchers? Had you tried other programs before?
MM: What haven't I tried?! I have a bachelor's degree in dietetics, so I know the science of a balanced diet and understand nutrition and food chemistry but was never quite able to make it work for me. I loathe counting calories, and as soon as you tell me I can't have something, I want it so much more.
I had heard of Weight Watchers a hundred times over and had known people who were very successful on the program - and knowing that nothing was off limits with Weight Watchers was a big deciding factor for me. I also loved that the new program had a greater emphasis on exercise! It really pushed me to get back in the gym.
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
MM: I love to run. I enjoy sprinting, distance running, circuit training, interval runs, you name it. I like to balance my week with some intense cardio like running, or sprinting and lifting, or HIIT workouts.
"It's nice to have other people pushing you to follow through and go to the gym. Accountability is key!"
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
MM: It depends on the day! We [boyfriend Kevin and his sister, Lindsey] all Spin together, and it's a great way to spend time with friends. If our schedules allow, we like to work out together; it's nice to have other people pushing you to follow through and go to the gym. Accountability is key!
Megan: After
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
MM: I like to use Pinterest and Instagram to find new workout ideas. I like to use these workouts for ideas to make my own; keeping it interesting makes me want to do it. I also love to try classes at new studios. There's a place in Louisville we just discovered that offers obstacle-course style fitness; I'm so excited to give it a try!
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
MM: I was most upset about the extreme roundness of my face and the fullness of my cheeks. It wasn't until I lost over 25 pounds that I started to notice a difference in my face, but when I did, it was so reinvigorating! Seeing muscle isn't so bad, either.
Megan: Before and After
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
MM: I log my weight in the Weight Watchers app and have measurements that I've taken over the years to compare.
"I don't feel bad customizing my order at restaurants anymore. I used to get so embarrassed, but it's my health and I'm not going to be ashamed for sticking to my plan!"
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
MM: Breakfast is usually some sort of egg white scramble or oatmeal (I love oatmeal and all the different combos that can keep it interesting!). Lunch varies every week but is usually lean protein and veggies. I get snacky in the afternoon and might have a Quest Bar if I'm really hungry or some fruit - usually an apple or berries. Sometimes cherry tomatoes or snap peas. Dinners are always changing. We take turns cooking dinner so the menu is always rotating! I love dessert, so I'll usually have a protein mug cake, some yogurt, or Halo Top for dessert!
PS: Do you count calories?
MM: Not consistently; I've tried to do both count calories and macros on top of [Weight Watchers] points, but they're not as effective for me. I'm a volume eater, so seeing calories in an apple or carbs in snap peas is discouraging to me. I like knowing that these healthy snack choices are at 0 SmartPoints. I get 30 SmartPoints per day, and I usually eat right around 30 SmartPoints.
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
MM: Nut butter, egg whites, yogurt, prosciutto, chicken sausage, fruit/veggies, RxBars, Halo Top, cashew milk, plain oatmeal, Quest protein powder.
Megan: Before and After
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
MM: Weight Watchers has taught me how to be smarter about eating out. I still eat the things I want but weigh if they're worth it or not before I order them. I also don't feel bad customizing my order at restaurants anymore. If I want my veggies with no butter or oil, or my cheese and dressing and nuts for my salad all on the side so I can control how much of each I use, then I order that way. I used to get so embarrassed, but it's my health and I'm not going to be ashamed for sticking to my plan!
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker?
MM: I have a Garmin Forerunner 235, and I LOVE IT! Kevin keeps trying to get me to get an Apple Watch, but I'm obsessed with my watch and don't want to change. I love the race predictor feature; it really pushes me! And I love seeing my VO2 improve as I get fitter!
PS: What has it been like being on this journey with a loved one?
MM: It has made all the difference! At times it's easy to get jealous when you're on a plateau and it seems like everyone else is making progress, but ultimately we are excited for each other's success! Having people who can push you to keep going or bounce ideas for healthy meals off of is invaluable. Going into a tailgate or a party and knowing that you won't be peer pressured by everyone to eat bad food and have other people who will stick with you is a gift!
"Having people who can push you to keep going or bounce ideas for healthy meals off of is invaluable."
PS: What role did Weight Watchers play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
MM: I recommend Weight Watchers to everyone who will listen! Since last August, the group of people who have joined Weight Watchers with Kevin, Lindsey, and I has crept into the teens! I have a better sense of portion control now and feel more confident in making food decisions.
Everything You Need to Know About Freezing Your Eggs - Including the Best Time to Do It
According to the CDC, more US women are having children in their early 30s now than ever before. For the first time, this age group of moms surpasses the number of women giving birth in their late 20s. As more women wait to have kids to instead travel, focus on their career, or accomplish what they can before motherhood, fertility preservation becomes a more important option.
To find out exactly what the process entails and get all your questions answered, we spoke with Dr. Monica Best of Prelude Fertility.
Fertility Options For Women and Men
Men have the option of preserving fertility through semen cryopreservation, while women can opt for egg cryopreservation (aka egg freezing). Best shared that you can also cryopreserve embryos via in vitro fertilization (IVF), which would be ideal for couples who plan to defer having children for one or more years. Eggs collected from the female patient are combined with the male's semen sample to manually create the embryo to be frozen. But egg cryopreservation is a great option for any woman, single or not, since the process doesn't require a partner at the time.
Best Age to Freeze Your Eggs
The younger you are, the more eggs you have, the better your pregnancy rate, and the lower your chance of miscarriage when you return to utilize those eggs. Best says your early 30s or even late 20s would be most ideal, but it's also important to know how your current egg bank is looking. If you're in your early to mid-20s and already have a diminished number of eggs, you may want to consider fertility preservation sooner.
"In your mid-30s you see the most rapid decline in ovary reserve, so you should be targeting it before then," Best said.
When Eggs Expire
Thankfully, never! The amount of time your eggs stay frozen does not affect your chances of getting pregnant, which means you can preserve them for as long as you need. "There isn't any data that says that if you came back 10 years or five years from now your odds of pregnancy success would be any different," Best told POPSUGAR. "So if you freeze in your 20s or 30s and you don't meet the man of your dreams until you are 45, your pregnancy rate is associated with that of when you were in your 20s or 30s."
However, keep in mind that the risk of birth complications only increases with age.
What the Process Looks Like
Typically, the process involves daily injections for 12 days of a medication called gonadotropin, which stimulates the ovaries to generate mature eggs. Once all the eggs are at the appropriate size, a trigger shot is given to help the eggs undergo the final stages of maturation. 36 hours later when the eggs are ripe, they're then extracted for freezing in a 20-minute procedure, in which the patient is usually under anaesthesia.
"The way we extract the eggs - there are no incisions - so there's a transvaginal ultrasound with a needle tied on the end of that that goes through the vagina and into the follicles on the ovaries," Best said. "We drain the follicular fluid from that and then the lab isolates the eggs from that fluid."
According to Best, the average woman at reproductive age will have somewhere between 10 to 20 eggs if she has a normal ovarian reserve. From those 10 to 20 collected eggs, only a third to two thirds of those eggs will be mature.
"Not everything you collect will be mature, not everything will form an embryo once it's fertilized, and not every embryo will grow while it's cultured," she said. "So the more eggs you have, the more quality eggs you have, and you can sustain some of that attrition that occurs throughout the process."
How Much Pain to Expect
For the most part, you shouldn't experience a whole lot of pain post-procedure. Expect to have some heavy cramping and spotting, but Best said that most patients are back to work within the next day or two.
How Much It Costs
The average medication cost (to stimulate the ovaries) can range anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000, depending on how much treatment you'll need. Those with a lower number of eggs will require more medications to stimulate those eggs, which equals a higher cost. The actual egg-freezing process will set you back an an additional $9,000 to $10,000. Unfortunately, most women pay out of pocket since insurance doesn't typically cover egg cryopreservation. If you're looking to generate and freeze your embryos, you're looking at $14,000 to $15,000.
Egg storage also comes at a price. Consider it like a renter's fee; patients normally spend around $400 a year to store their eggs. But remember that patient financing is also available and certain programs like Prelude Fertility offer ways to keep costs down, including free storage for the first three years.
39 Disney World Facts That Even Die-Hard Fans Don't Know
The happiest place on Earth also happens to be one of the most interesting. Disney World has been around for nearly half a century, and with age comes good stories - and lots of them. We've rounded up 39 Disney World secrets even die-hard fans will be shocked to discover.
If you can't get enough Disney, check out our posts full of tips and facts:
Articles
