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.

dimanche 24 juillet 2016

How Fitness Has Played a Huge Part in Making My Friendships Stronger

In college, I met one of my best friends, Olivia. We bonded over our weird sense of humor, affinity for doughnuts and desserts of all kinds, Harry Potter, and a slew of other commonalities. Beyond that, we just "got" each other, and there was an instant trust, appreciation, and love from day one.

Postgraduation, after years of drinking and too many late-night visits to Taco Bell and Panda Express, we decided to be "healthy." This began with attempts to "run" up and down the Manhattan Beach boardwalk . . . which ended up being casual walks, because neither of us had ever worked out, and running more than about 11 steps was - for all intents and purposes - impossible.

A couple years went by before we started truly dabbling in fitness. Neither of us had ever been to a gym, gone for a real run, or really taken a group fitness class consistently. All of that started to change a couple years ago. I started running (not an easy start, honestly), and Olivia started going to indoor cycling classes. Last year, Olivia introduced me to SoulCycle, which is now one of my favorite workouts.

Olivia taking me to my first SoulCycle class ever!

Because we started this journey together, we're making progress together and discovering things at the same time. As we share our new favorite workouts, healthy recipes, and recovery tips, it's like being in school again. We get to share in the triumphant moments (my first half-marathon, her first headstand) but also the tougher moments.

Moving away from her to San Francisco this year was tough, because it put so many miles between us. But our new love of fitness has created a new dynamic and layer of our friendship and made our relationship even stronger. Better yet, we're both becoming better people in this process. It's almost like she's my virtual workout buddy; she's the first person I text when I've had a great instructor or I try a new class, and she's always telling me about the new studios that are popping up in LA (like Rise Nation or Lagree Method).

This past weekend, I took Olivia with me to the Kayla Itsines Bootcamp in LA, where we witnessed a similar bond between so many women. Fitness is such a personal journey, and when you share that vulnerable part of your life with someone close to you, it truly strengthens your relationship and brings you closer.

Beyond the sappy stuff, I enjoy teaching Olivia how to shop for healthy pantry staples like quinoa and chia seeds as much as I love receiving the "I'm so sweaty I just got out of the craziest yoga class" texts. We constantly chat about our activewear favorites (like Outdoor Voices, Alo Yoga, and all the cute stuff at SoulCycle), and we make golden milk before bed at our sleepovers now.

While parts of our relationship have stayed the same (chiefly the weird sense of humor), we've both grown and become better people, and we did so together. It feels pretty amazing to have someone who started their fitness journey at the same time I did and someone to look to for strength and inspiration. Our bodies have definitely become stronger and more toned, but our friendship is even stronger.

12 Things Organized Moms Always Do Before School Starts Again

It's the middle of Summer - now's so not the time to start reading about back-to-school season. (That's almost as bad as when the radio starts playing Christmas music the day after Halloween.) Well, if you want to spend the upcoming school year rushing out the door, chronically late and always frazzled, move right along. Nothing to see here. But if you see those other school moms - always early to drop off their kids, who arrive bright-eyed with perfectly pressed shirts and nutritiously packed lunches - and seethe with jealousy, it's time you start prepping now.

We gathered up 12 of the most helpful things every organized mom does to make the return to school a smooth transition. You might want to start thinking about them now.

  1. Ease Into a School Year Schedule

    If it's the night before the first day of school and you're just now enforcing a rigidly early bedtime followed by a painfully early wake-up call, just plan to fail miserably. Seasoned moms know you can't go from Summer to the first day of school with the flip of a night light switch. It takes weeks to slowly return to a school-year schedule, and it begins by waking late sleepers earlier and earlier until they're body clock adjusts.

  2. Create a Master Calendar

    You might have a Google calendar synced up with your partner, but for elementary-school-aged kids, it's a good idea to have a large, printed or whiteboard (easier to make edits!) calendar that is in an easy-to-spot, highly trafficked place in the house. This way, you can see what's happening with everyone, including after-school events and childcare schedules, at a glance.

  3. Keep That Calendar Clear the First Two Weeks

    The thought of your child in someone else's care for a solid eight hours might make you jump at the chance to get to all those doctor's appointments, but hold off just a bit longer. Try to wait to schedule a haircut or your car's oil change or an important board meeting until your kids have gotten through one or two weeks of school. Even the most prepared moms can't predict the unexpected, but they can be available for when it inevitably happens.

  4. Purge the Craft Bin

    Before the school year starts, take an afternoon to purge the house of anything that's on its last legs - half-used pencils, sticky scissors, broken crayons. Or if pitching nearly dried-up markers feels wasteful, set aside in a pile that you know is only going to last you a few more activities. This will help you decide what you actually need to buy when the back-to-school sales begin.

  5. Pick Out Clothes the Night Before

    Mornings are always rushed, even for the most prepared moms, so whatever you can do in advance, do the evening before. Pick out your kids' clothes - or if they prefer, have them pick out their ensembles - the night before. Set aside not just the outfit, but the shoes, belt, hair clips . . . anything that goes along with it, so that you aren't scrambling to find a matching sock at 7 a.m.

  6. Make Lunches the Night Before

    Putting together a PB&J and apple slices might seem like a no-brainer that takes all of five minutes, but those five minutes inevitably last a lot longer when you're surrounded by cranky kids and a slow coffee maker.

  7. Prepare For the Whole Week on Sunday

    Getting things organized the night before is a key to a successful school day, but once you've mastered that, try planning a full week ahead, at least with dinnertime meal planning. Getting all the groceries you need on Sunday to last the whole week will save you from last-minute time-consuming market runs.

  8. Always Leave Seven Minutes Early

    It's inevitable that if you plan to leave at 6:45 a.m., you aren't out the door until at least 6:55. Decide what is the very last minute you can leave without being late, and make it your goal to leave seven minutes prior to that. Why the odd number? Knowing that you want to be in the car at 6:48 is more specific than a general time on the hour or half-hour, so you're more likely to stick to it.

  9. Set Back the Clocks

    If just trying to leave early isn't cutting it, take matters into your own hands. Call it cheating, call it playing the odds: tweaking the alarm clocks to be a few minutes ahead - five minutes or 10 at most - will keep everyone on time, whether they realize it or not.

  10. Save Facebook For Recess

    The most productive of mornings can be quickly curtailed by "just one quick look" on Facebook. If you tend to start your day by scrolling through your feed in bed, kick the habit and let the social media binge be a reward for getting the kids out the door.

  11. Clean Out Backpacks Daily

    It's amazing what kids bring home with them . . . and then bring to school . . . and then bring back home. A quick pass through their many-zippered satchel, ideally right when they get home, will help them stay clean and organized, not to mention help you know what's going on. Chances are, that memo the teacher needs you to read is crumpled at the bottom of that bag.

  12. Always Have Extras . . . of Everything

    If you miraculously bought every last school supply on the list, you're still not out of the woods. For the items that often get lost or broken, buy an extra set. You will certainly use it over the course of the year, and it will prevent some eleventh-hour run to Walgreens the night before a big project is due.

So . . . Is Pilates Worth All That Extra Money?

A Pilates class has a powerful ability to transform the body, lean out muscles, and amass a totally-devoted following of die-hard studio addicts. It's Kate Hudson's favorite workout and beloved by fitness enthusiasts the world over. And why? Because it works!

But here's the thing: Pilates is not cheap. With group classes ranging from $30 to over $50 and private lessons in the hundreds, it doesn't always feel like the most financially practical move. However, there's totally a reason for the extra cost - for one, those machines! We wanted to take a look at the specific benefits of using a Reformer versus doing at-home and general group fitness classes.

  • It's multiple gym machines in one. Confused at the gym? Don't know which machine to use? Want to work multiple muscle groups simultaneously? The do-it-all-for-you Reformer is the machine you've been waiting for - you can work core, leg, booty, arm, and back muscles with this wondrous device.
  • Your form is in check. Katie Warmuth, instructor at Pilates ProWorks in San Francisco told us that the Reformer "provides the added benefit of lengthening and toning the muscles safely, while improving your flexibility and posture [since] your muscles work against the resistance of the springs - causing an eccentric muscle contraction - to lengthen as they contract."

    We also chatted with Jenn Seracuse, director of FlexPilates, who said, "You can't cheat" on the machines. "If you aren't engaged, you'll know right away." When you're on the machine, if you're not in the right position, you're not going to be able to get into the move, so there's less room for error when it comes to form - especially because of the more personalized attention in a smaller class (we'll get to that next). This means you'll be keeping proper form consistently and preventing injury.

  • More personal instruction. Have you ever been in a class jam-packed with 60 people, wondering if the instructor even knows you're there? I can tell you - I definitely have, and it can be frustrating, especially when you show up hoping for some adjustments and more personal guidance. The benefit of Pilates classes is that there are a limited amount of machines in the room - meaning a limited amount of students and more personalized attention and instruction.

    "Having someone there who can watch you and hands-on correct your form is invaluable," said Seracuse. "Some other types of group fitness pack people in so there is no way the instructor can get to everyone to correct form." This also means it's not the class to come to and hide out in the back, and it can be tough to book if you're not on top of your schedule. But if you're looking for something that feels like personal training without the $100+ per hour fees, Pilates is for you.

  • Deeper muscle activation. After taking a few of my first Pilates classes, I had moments when I was like, "Ohhhh, there's a muscle in there!" and felt soreness I wouldn't have without some kind of machine. Honestly, there are parts of my butt I never knew existed until I started doing leg work on the Reformer. It's a soreness and workout I don't get from squats, that's for sure. "The surfaces are unstable, so you need to be focused through the entire workout and can't help but turn on the deep stabilizing muscles," said Seracuse.
  • Extra emphasis on core. While Reformer classes provide a full-body workout, they're especially focused on improving core strength. "Core strength ultimately helps you to be more balanced in other workouts and everyday life," said Warmuth. And core doesn't just mean flat abs! This helps strengthen your back, protecting your spine and posture. Seracuse reinforced this, adding, "There is a lot of balance and stability work that helps build core strength, which you can take with you into your body weight workouts to ensure proper form."
  • It's low-impact and great for joints. Dealing with knee injury, joint pain, or building strength during injury recovery? A Reformer class is a great place to start. "Using the Reformer is low-impact on the joints," said Warmuth. "In fact, it helps improve joint stability, making it a great addition to your workout regimen, especially if you're a runner or often do intense cardio that may be hard on your joints."

Still worried about dollars? Try some of these helpful tips on saving money on boutique fitness.

How Fitness Has Played a Huge Part in Making My Friendships Stronger

In college, I met one of my best friends, Olivia. We bonded over our weird sense of humor, affinity for doughnuts and desserts of all kinds, Harry Potter, and a slew of other commonalities. Beyond that, we just "got" each other, and there was an instant trust, appreciation, and love from day one.

Postgraduation, after years of drinking and too many late-night visits to Taco Bell and Panda Express, we decided to be "healthy." This began with attempts to "run" up and down the Manhattan Beach boardwalk . . . which ended up being casual walks, because neither of us had ever worked out, and running more than about 11 steps was - for all intents and purposes - impossible.

A couple years went by before we started truly dabbling in fitness. Neither of us had ever been to a gym, gone for a real run, or really taken a group fitness class consistently. All of that started to change a couple years ago. I started running (not an easy start, honestly), and Olivia started going to indoor cycling classes. Last year, Olivia introduced me to SoulCycle, which is now one of my favorite workouts.

Olivia taking me to my first SoulCycle class ever!

Because we started this journey together, we're making progress together and discovering things at the same time. As we share our new favorite workouts, healthy recipes, and recovery tips, it's like being in school again. We get to share in the triumphant moments (my first half-marathon, her first headstand) but also the tougher moments.

Moving away from her to San Francisco this year was tough, because it put so many miles between us. But our new love of fitness has created a new dynamic and layer of our friendship and made our relationship even stronger. Better yet, we're both becoming better people in this process. It's almost like she's my virtual workout buddy; she's the first person I text when I've had a great instructor or I try a new class, and she's always telling me about the new studios that are popping up in LA (like Rise Nation or Lagree Method).

This past weekend, I took Olivia with me to the Kayla Itsines Bootcamp in LA, where we witnessed a similar bond between so many women. Fitness is such a personal journey, and when you share that vulnerable part of your life with someone close to you, it truly strengthens your relationship and brings you closer.

Beyond the sappy stuff, I enjoy teaching Olivia how to shop for healthy pantry staples like quinoa and chia seeds as much as I love receiving the "I'm so sweaty I just got out of the craziest yoga class" texts. We constantly chat about our activewear favorites (like Outdoor Voices, Alo Yoga, and all the cute stuff at SoulCycle), and we make golden milk before bed at our sleepovers now.

While parts of our relationship have stayed the same (chiefly the weird sense of humor), we've both grown and become better people, and we did so together. It feels pretty amazing to have someone who started their fitness journey at the same time I did and someone to look to for strength and inspiration. Our bodies have definitely become stronger and more toned, but our friendship is even stronger.

25 Adorable Outfits For Baby's Homecoming

When it's time for your new addition to make his "real world" debut, what you choose to dress him in can be a big decision - especially when snap-happy dads and grandparents are going to be there to capture every moment on camera.

Eighty-two percent of POPSUGAR Moms readers say they bought a special ensemble for their newborn to wear on this momentous day, and if you're planning on following suit, we recommend an outfit that's soft, cozy, and easy to get on and off. Converter gowns and kimono styles are especially desirable, as are pieces that don't go over the new baby's head.

Check out our 25 favorite finds, and tell us: what did (or will) you bring home baby in?

Scientists in race to test CRISPR gene-editing technique on cancer

t cells attacking cancer cell

A new gene-editing technique with potential to revolutionize cancer treatment has U.S. and Chinese scientists in a race to test it on humans.

Scientists in race to test CRISPR gene-editing technique on cancer

t cells attacking cancer cell

A new gene-editing technique with potential to revolutionize cancer treatment has U.S. and Chinese scientists in a race to test it on humans.

Sprint Through Security With These 5 Tech-Packing Tricks

If the thought of flying and standing in long TSA lines before reaching your travel destination triggers a migraine, these tips from the TSA will show you how to properly pack your gadgets, accessories, and chargers, and speed through the security line like a frequent flyer. A foolproof way to get everything in your bag, the best way to wrap cords, and the most TSA-friendly bags await in these five tips.

1. Pack in layers:
Layer clothes, electronics, then clothes again inside a carry-on so the TSA agent can quickly see what's in there. This strategy also works better than the cram-everything-in-your-bag strategy once you unpack at your destination.

2. Wrap the cords:
A tangle of cords could look like something potentially harmful if it's viewed a certain way, which could mean a more thorough and time-consuming bag check. Wrap cords around their devices, pack chargers together in one bag (ziplocks work!), and take advantage of rubber bands and twist ties to keep them tangle-free.

3. Keep big items in your carry-on:
Not in checked bags. Laptops and DVD players have to come out of your bags at screening checkpoints, but they won't fare well in checked bags unless you're down with a TSA agent potentially digging them out.

4. But know what can stay inside:
Don't forget: tablets, ereaders, laptops, and gadgets smaller than a 13-inch laptop can stay in your carry-on. All other electronic devices need to come out.

5. Get a TSA-friendly bag:
Of course, you could just get a TSA-friendly bag for your laptop, which will glide right through the checkpoint without a problem. TSA-approved bags provide a clear and unobstructed view of the device inside through the X-ray scanner. These can be one of three styles: sleeve style, butterfly style, or trifold style. They won't have pockets, metal zippers, snaps, logos, emblems, or other branding that can obstruct the view of the laptop in the X-ray scanner, and they can only house the laptop. Other items like chargers, cables, and accessories should be packed separately.

This Dad's Taken-Style Note Will Make Every Kid Think Twice Before Leaving Dirty Dishes in the Sink

Stuck on how to get your kids to do their chores? This dad might have a solution.

After one too many days dealing with a messy kitchen and dirty dishes left filling up the sink, this frustrated father channeled Liam Neeson - or rather his very industrious character from the Taken movies - and wrote a letter to his kids outlining a "very particular set of skills."

The note, which he printed out and posted on Reddit (in his words, "my teenagers refuse to put their dishes in the dishwasher, so I put this above the sink"), made his demands clear: either his kids do as he's instructed or prepare to have their wifi and data plans disconnected.

How this nail-biter ends, we aren't sure. We just know not to mess with a dad who goes to this kind of effort.

58 of the Best Birthday Party Ideas For Girls

We've seen so many fantastic birthday party ideas for kids, but we have to admit, some of our favorites have been thrown for the girliest of girls. Some are traditional - full of lots of pink, princesses, mermaids, dolls, and tutus - while others have expanded our ideas of what a girl party should be, with glam-camping, superhero, and safari themes. If you need party inspiration for the little lady in your life, look no further: the following 51 parties are packed full of creative ideas for decor, sweets, favors, and more. Bring on the pink (and blue and aqua and gold)!

Pokémon Go Players Are Going to Some Wild Places to Catch 'Em All

Unless you were in quarantine for the past week, it's likely you either played the much-hyped Pokémon Go game, or at the very least witnessed someone running down the street with their iPhone held in front of them, flinging Pokéballs at an augmented reality-version of the world around them. And as time goes on, people are increasingly going to some crazy lengths in order to catch 'em all - and capturing it all on social media.

The beautiful thing about Pokémon Go is that it hits the perfect sweet spot between video game and social platform, meaning that every insane feat that a user accomplishes can be broadcast to the world, issuing a challenge to other users to one-up what they've seen. Luckily for us, that means that we can bask in the products of each wild Pokémon catch - and the competition continues to grow as brands, organizations, and entertainers throw their hats in the ring as well. I'm pretty sure that these 15 Pokémon snapshots are just the beginning of what we're going to see in the coming weeks and months, and boy, am I excited to see what comes next.

If You Only Do 1 Healthy Thing in the Morning, Make Sure It's This

When you wake up late and start your day crazed, you can be sure that the rest of your day will follow suit. In the same vein, it's equally incredible how a quick morning meditation can shift you away from a case of the cuckoos and back to your centered self - ready to embrace the day! Some might scoff at the concept of taking a significant amount of time in the morning to do nothing but sit in silence, but it can be a truly transformative time.

  • You'll breathe better all day long: So many days the clock can strike noon, and you realize you haven't taken one really deep breath since you woke up. Starting your day off with these full body breaths instantly relieves nerves and leaves you with a sense of calm. Calling this attention to your breath will keep your stamina up and your head clear for the duration of your day.
  • You're giving your bod a treat: It just plain feels good! Forcing yourself to cool your jets and sit for even five or 10 minutes may seem like a struggle, but practice makes perfect, and it will give back tenfold. You're busy helping everyone all day long; you need to give yourself a little love too.
  • You're setting an intention: Waking up, pressing play, and going all day long may seem like a productive jump-start, but a racing mind does you far more harm than good. If you feel like you're on a constant wheel every morning, taking this time and celebrating your day will keep you feeling positive and purposeful.

Not sure how to start a daily meditation practice? Here are five styles of meditation for beginners.

If You Only Do 1 Healthy Thing in the Morning, Make Sure It's This

When you wake up late and start your day crazed, you can be sure that the rest of your day will follow suit. In the same vein, it's equally incredible how a quick morning meditation can shift you away from a case of the cuckoos and back to your centered self - ready to embrace the day! Some might scoff at the concept of taking a significant amount of time in the morning to do nothing but sit in silence, but it can be a truly transformative time.

  • You'll breathe better all day long: So many days the clock can strike noon, and you realize you haven't taken one really deep breath since you woke up. Starting your day off with these full body breaths instantly relieves nerves and leaves you with a sense of calm. Calling this attention to your breath will keep your stamina up and your head clear for the duration of your day.
  • You're giving your bod a treat: It just plain feels good! Forcing yourself to cool your jets and sit for even five or 10 minutes may seem like a struggle, but practice makes perfect, and it will give back tenfold. You're busy helping everyone all day long; you need to give yourself a little love too.
  • You're setting an intention: Waking up, pressing play, and going all day long may seem like a productive jump-start, but a racing mind does you far more harm than good. If you feel like you're on a constant wheel every morning, taking this time and celebrating your day will keep you feeling positive and purposeful.

Not sure how to start a daily meditation practice? Here are five styles of meditation for beginners.

The Dangerous Summertime Stroller Mistake We're All Making

This Summer, could your attempt at keeping your baby safe from the sun be doing more harm than good?

If you've ever covered your baby's stroller or pram - with even a thin cloth like a muslin wrap - in an attempt to block the sun's rays and provide shade, you might be unknowingly causing your little one to overheat.

According to researchers in Sweden, providing this kind of shade actually creates a furnace-like heat within the stroller. Because of the reduced air circulation, temperatures can rise quickly, similar to those in a hot car.

In one study published in Svenska Dagbladet, the temperature inside an uncovered stroller was 72 degrees, but after being covered by a thin cloth, it reached 93 degrees within 30 minutes. In an hour, the thermostat clocked in at nearly 100 degrees.

What can you do to keep your baby covered without causing them to overheat? Here, some safe alternatives:

  • Avoid cloth wraps for shading and instead opt for an aerated cover made of mesh material so that air flow isn't hindered. Umbrella attachments are also a practical option.
  • Some strollers have back panels that can be removed in warmer months, but if this isn't an option, consider a lightweight umbrella stroller for hotter days.
  • Regularly check your baby's temperature. If he or she is sweating, is clammy, or feels hot to the touch, it's time to get out of the sun.
  • Use sunscreen if your baby is at least 6 months old, and restrict stroller walking in the Summer during peak sunlight hours, usually between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

Teslas Are Helping the Robot-Dog Trend Actually Come True

Prepare yourselves, folks, because this video is the future, thanks to Tesla's self-driving car features. One brilliant human put his pup in the driver's seat to see just how well it worked. Check out the video to see how it went, and then find even more animal videos here.

The Workout That Helped Jessica Alba Shake Off Her Baby Weight

Looking to tone up after having a baby (or two)? We tapped celebrity fitness trainer, Ramona Braganza, who helped both Jessica Alba and Zoe Saldana get back in shape after having kids, to create a workout for new moms. Based on Ramona's Baby Bulge Be Gone diet and fitness plan, this 20-minute workout mixes cardio, strength training, and ab work. No matter your fitness level, this workout will work for you. Ramona provides excellent modifications for beginners, as well as ways to advance the moves - "you can always make an exercise harder." Grab a set of three-pound dumbbells, and a chair if you're just getting back in the fitness game, and let's get at it.

The Workout That Helped Jessica Alba Shake Off Her Baby Weight

Looking to tone up after having a baby (or two)? We tapped celebrity fitness trainer, Ramona Braganza, who helped both Jessica Alba and Zoe Saldana get back in shape after having kids, to create a workout for new moms. Based on Ramona's Baby Bulge Be Gone diet and fitness plan, this 20-minute workout mixes cardio, strength training, and ab work. No matter your fitness level, this workout will work for you. Ramona provides excellent modifications for beginners, as well as ways to advance the moves - "you can always make an exercise harder." Grab a set of three-pound dumbbells, and a chair if you're just getting back in the fitness game, and let's get at it.

How a Mom's Facebook Post Ruined a Man's Reputation For Life


These days it's hard to control how fast stories can spread across social media - especially those with misinformation. One father learned this lesson last year after a viral Facebook post wrongly accused him of being a pedophile.

A man who wished to remain anonymous took a selfie with a Darth Vader display at a Target in Australia; he and his kids love Star Wars. When he took the photo, he spoke to some children nearby and told them what he was doing, according to the Knox Leader. That's when the mother of the children saw the interaction, followed the man outside of the store, took a picture of him, and shared on Facebook what she thought had happened - a pedophile inappropriately speaking with her children and taking pictures.

The Facebook post called the man a "creep" and detailed the actions the mother took to protect her children, including alerting the police and security at the store. Until deletion, the story had been shared over 20,000 times. After being told by his friends about the post and photo, the man went to the police and cleared his name - but not before receiving death threats and dealing with repercussions that affected his family and children. The mother, who remained anonymous, deleted the post and apologized, but received death threats herself for sparking a mob against the man.

"I think the biggest lesson out of it all is not to post anything that could hurt anybody on media," she told the Knox Leader. She's tried to get in contact with the man and does not know whether or not legal action will be pursued against her yet. "One thousand times over I wish I could take it back," she said.

While social media is a useful tool to spread information, especially about dangerous situations, this story is a reminder of just how powerful it is and how easily it can damage a person's reputation, whether or not the story is true. As the man in the photo said, "People need to get their information from proper news sources rather than rely on drama queens who share things without thought on Facebook."

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I Made These 3 Changes at Breakfast and Finally Started Losing Weight

Despite eating (what I thought was) a wholesome breakfast every morning, the pounds weren't dropping. So why was I not losing weight? All the experts say breakfast is key to boosting metabolism, after all. I didn't realize I was making three huge mistakes, but once I changed them, I could see the difference in how my body looked.

Bye-Bye Granola

Cereal was my go-to breakfast all the way from elementary school through college. Although sweet, delicious, and easy, it was the worst breakfast for me. It's full of sugary carbs and not much fiber or protein. I even went for the healthy stuff like Kashi's GoLean Crunch, granola, and Raisin Bran, but cereal is cereal, and it's not the most nutritious choice on the menu. I started focusing on getting 13 to 20 grams of protein, at least six grams of fiber, and 10 to 15 grams of healthy fats. So I ditched the boxes for a blender and started sipping on smoothies. I also do overnight oats because it reminds me of cereal - I'm huge fan of the brownie batter and banana cashew.

Related: 6 Things You Can Do Every Day to Prevent Weight Gain

What Time Is It?

Not sure where I heard that you're supposed to eat first thing in the morning and to never skip breakfast, but I followed that advice diligently. I ate within a half hour after waking up, around 7:30, even if I wasn't hungry (99 percent of the time I wasn't). I'm convinced it turned on my hunger because by 9 a.m., I was starving, which translated to eating two breakfasts, and that meant twice the calories. No wonder I wasn't slimming down! Now I wake up, get in a workout, and usually don't feel hungry until 9 or 10. Listening to my body's cues when it comes to breakfast has carried through to other parts of my day. I eat when I'm hungry, not when the clock tells me to.

Related: 12 No-Cook Breakfasts That Support Your Weight-Loss Goals

Tablespoons Aren't Just For Baking

Another huge mistake? I never measured anything. When I was eating cereal, I grabbed a huge bowl - way bigger than your typical soup or salad bowl - and poured with abandon. I usually mixed three different cereals; added raisins, nuts, and blueberries or banana; and used Very Vanilla soy milk. Holy calories! No joke - my bowl was easily pushing 600. Same went for oatmeal, yogurt with fruit and granola, toast, or smoothies. I got out my cups and spoons and measured everything, making sure it was around 400 calories. To this day, I still measure everything to avoid accidentally eyeballing higher amounts.

Related: 18 Breakfasts That Follow the Perfect Weight-Loss Formula

This Dad Recounts What Happened When Police Were Called After His Daughter's Public Meltdown

When 8-year-old Cerys Lily spotted a Finding Dory lunch box while out shopping with her dad, she immediately fell in love with the back-to-school product. However, her dad, Robert Davies, learned that the display wasn't going on sale until the following day and he was unable to purchase the lunch box for his daughter just yet. Cerys Lily, who has autism, became visibly upset at the news and her disappointment quickly escalated into a public meltdown.

Robert had to physically carry his aggressive daughter to the car and shared on Facebook what happened after he managed to drive the distraught little girl home. Twenty minutes after arriving at his South Wales home, the police showed up because Robert had been reported for putting a child in a car against her will. Once he explained the situation, the officers were satisfied and even cheered Cerys Lily up by playing with their lights and sirens.

Robert thought that was the end of things and was completely surprised when Steven Bowen and Leigh Francis showed up at his door again the following morning - this time with the Finding Dory lunch box in hand. "I was a bit overwhelmed when they come so didn't get to thank them properly," Robert wrote. "There really are some good people out there!"

I Made These 3 Changes at Breakfast and Finally Started Losing Weight

Despite eating (what I thought was) a wholesome breakfast every morning, the pounds weren't dropping. So why was I not losing weight? All the experts say breakfast is key to boosting metabolism, after all. I didn't realize I was making three huge mistakes, but once I changed them, I could see the difference in how my body looked.

Bye-Bye Granola

Cereal was my go-to breakfast all the way from elementary school through college. Although sweet, delicious, and easy, it was the worst breakfast for me. It's full of sugary carbs and not much fiber or protein. I even went for the healthy stuff like Kashi's GoLean Crunch, granola, and Raisin Bran, but cereal is cereal, and it's not the most nutritious choice on the menu. I started focusing on getting 13 to 20 grams of protein, at least six grams of fiber, and 10 to 15 grams of healthy fats. So I ditched the boxes for a blender and started sipping on smoothies. I also do overnight oats because it reminds me of cereal - I'm huge fan of the brownie batter and banana cashew.

Related: 6 Things You Can Do Every Day to Prevent Weight Gain

What Time Is It?

Not sure where I heard that you're supposed to eat first thing in the morning and to never skip breakfast, but I followed that advice diligently. I ate within a half hour after waking up, around 7:30, even if I wasn't hungry (99 percent of the time I wasn't). I'm convinced it turned on my hunger because by 9 a.m., I was starving, which translated to eating two breakfasts, and that meant twice the calories. No wonder I wasn't slimming down! Now I wake up, get in a workout, and usually don't feel hungry until 9 or 10. Listening to my body's cues when it comes to breakfast has carried through to other parts of my day. I eat when I'm hungry, not when the clock tells me to.

Related: 12 No-Cook Breakfasts That Support Your Weight-Loss Goals

Tablespoons Aren't Just For Baking

Another huge mistake? I never measured anything. When I was eating cereal, I grabbed a huge bowl - way bigger than your typical soup or salad bowl - and poured with abandon. I usually mixed three different cereals; added raisins, nuts, and blueberries or banana; and used Very Vanilla soy milk. Holy calories! No joke - my bowl was easily pushing 600. Same went for oatmeal, yogurt with fruit and granola, toast, or smoothies. I got out my cups and spoons and measured everything, making sure it was around 400 calories. To this day, I still measure everything to avoid accidentally eyeballing higher amounts.

Related: 18 Breakfasts That Follow the Perfect Weight-Loss Formula

Your Arms and Abs Will Transform After This 2-Week Challenge

Plank is one of the most effective total-body moves, so here's a new challenge for you to conquer - a five-minute plank. Since holding a straight-up plank wouldn't be any fun (and could end up causing an injury), this challenge mixes up five basic variations to not only tone your abs and arms, but to target the obliques, legs, and upper back as well. Here's an explanation of how to do each one, followed by the two-week plan.

Your Arms and Abs Will Transform After This 2-Week Challenge

Plank is one of the most effective total-body moves, so here's a new challenge for you to conquer - a five-minute plank. Since holding a straight-up plank wouldn't be any fun (and could end up causing an injury), this challenge mixes up five basic variations to not only tone your abs and arms, but to target the obliques, legs, and upper back as well. Here's an explanation of how to do each one, followed by the two-week plan.

9 Books to Get Kids Excited For School


Source: Flickr user obihave

Whether your child has already had their first day of school and still isn't quite on board or is anticipating the big day with equal amounts of excitement and anxiety, you can help ease the transition into the school year with one of the following books. Some are just funny, others are sweet, and all are designed to help your child become a successful, happy, and eager student!

  1. Disney It's A Small World I Love School!

    Inspired by the popular Disney ride, Disney It's A Small World I Love School! ($4) teaches your little ones all the amazing ways that kids around the world, from China to South Africa, learn and play at school.

  2. Stewie Boomstein Starts School

    When Christine Bronstein's son started kindergarten it was a disaster. He told the teachers he wanted to leave. It took her a while to figure out what went wrong, and now she's written a book (for adults and kids) to make their transition easier. In Stewie Boomstein Starts School ($10), Stewie has a hard time adjusting to school, but after his family realizes that he needs to know "what comes next" throughout the day, he's raring to go. Aside from the compelling story, the book's epilogue features a Q&A with child-rearing experts to help other families make a smoother transition.

  3. The Night Before Kindergarten

    The Night Before Kindergarten's ($4) colorful illustrations show your child what to expect from kindergarten, including packing school supplies, saying goodbye to Mom and Dad, and discovering how much fun school really is.

  4. Back-to-School Rules

    In Back-to-School Rules ($17), main character Percy gives kids 10 simple rules of things to do - and not to do! - to make school fun and successful.

  5. Kindergarten, Here I Come!

    Through funny poems and charming illustrations, Kindergarten, Here I Come! ($8) celebrates kindergarten's most memorable moments and milestones.

  6. The Invisible String

    For children with separation anxiety, The Invisible String ($17) teaches kids that, no matter how far away school is, you'll always be connected with love.

  7. Preschool Day Hooray!

    Preschool Day Hooray! ($11) walks your child through a typical, happy day in preschool with colorful, active illustrations.

  8. Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten

    Miss Bindergarten Gets Ready for Kindergarten ($17) not only prepares your little one for the first day of school, but also teaches them letters and animals through fun rhyming text that follows a dream of a teacher.

  9. We Love Our School!: A Read-Together Rebus Story

    We Love Our School!: A Read-Together Rebus Story ($8) is a great book for kindergartners or first graders who are trying to read. The rhyming verse and rebus pictures allow little ones to participate in the telling, even before they can actually read the words.

Flat-Belly Challenge: Our Week 2 Shopping List

We hope you had a great time following the first week of our 21-Day Flat-Belly Challenge! Week two features even more healthy recipes that will keep you on the right track. Each of these recipes will add a little debloating magic to your day, so spend some time stocking up on the groceries you need before the week begins - that way, whipping up a recipe a day will be a breeze. Check back on our Flat-Belly Challenge calendar each day for the workouts and recipes!

Note that these recipes are just a component of your healthy-eating plan: if you'd like to see even better results, follow these clean-eating rules for the duration of the challenge for all of your other meals as well.

Here's what you'll need for week two's recipes:

Produce
2 cups Bibb lettuce
3 cups cabbage (mix of purple and green)
3 bell peppers (or 2 red and 1 yellow)
1/2 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic
3 medium tomatoes
6 basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
1 cantaloupe (or honeydew melon)
2 celery stalks
1 apple
1/4-inch piece of ginger
2 pints blueberries
1 bunch flat-leaf parsley
4 1/3 Persian cucumbers
3 ripe and slightly firm avocados
3 tablespoons cilantro
1 cup chopped spinach
1 frozen banana
2 lemons
1 lime
1/4 cup fresh pineapple chunks

Meat
1 pound ground turkey

Nuts
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1 tablespoon chopped almonds

Condiments
1 1/2 tablespoons raw honey
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or use minced fresh)
1 tablespoon arrowroot
1/2 tablespoon maple syrup

Sauces, Oils, and Spices
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 cup coconut oil
2 or 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons hemp oil
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 to 3 dashes of cayenne pepper
Salt
Black pepper

Seeds and Grains
1/2 cup quinoa
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup hemp seeds

Other
1 750-milliliter bottle of sparkling water
1 cup almond flour
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
5 Medjool dates
1 cup light or full-fat coconut milk, depending on preference
1 cup coconut water
1 tablespoon aloe vera juice
1/4 cup coconut water ice cubes (optional; you can use normal ice cubes as well)

Flat-Belly Challenge: Our Week 2 Shopping List

We hope you had a great time following the first week of our 21-Day Flat-Belly Challenge! Week two features even more healthy recipes that will keep you on the right track. Each of these recipes will add a little debloating magic to your day, so spend some time stocking up on the groceries you need before the week begins - that way, whipping up a recipe a day will be a breeze. Check back on our Flat-Belly Challenge calendar each day for the workouts and recipes!

Note that these recipes are just a component of your healthy-eating plan: if you'd like to see even better results, follow these clean-eating rules for the duration of the challenge for all of your other meals as well.

Here's what you'll need for week two's recipes:

Produce
2 cups Bibb lettuce
3 cups cabbage (mix of purple and green)
3 bell peppers (or 2 red and 1 yellow)
1/2 large onion, diced
4 cloves garlic
3 medium tomatoes
6 basil leaves, plus extra for garnish
1 cantaloupe (or honeydew melon)
2 celery stalks
1 apple
1/4-inch piece of ginger
2 pints blueberries
1 bunch flat-leaf parsley
4 1/3 Persian cucumbers
3 ripe and slightly firm avocados
3 tablespoons cilantro
1 cup chopped spinach
1 frozen banana
2 lemons
1 lime
1/4 cup fresh pineapple chunks

Meat
1 pound ground turkey

Nuts
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1 tablespoon chopped almonds

Condiments
1 1/2 tablespoons raw honey
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (or use minced fresh)
1 tablespoon arrowroot
1/2 tablespoon maple syrup

Sauces, Oils, and Spices
1 tablespoon plus 1/2 cup coconut oil
2 or 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3 tablespoons hemp oil
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 to 3 dashes of cayenne pepper
Salt
Black pepper

Seeds and Grains
1/2 cup quinoa
1/4 cup chia seeds
1/4 cup hemp seeds

Other
1 750-milliliter bottle of sparkling water
1 cup almond flour
1 cup unsweetened coconut flakes
5 Medjool dates
1 cup light or full-fat coconut milk, depending on preference
1 cup coconut water
1 tablespoon aloe vera juice
1/4 cup coconut water ice cubes (optional; you can use normal ice cubes as well)

15 Healthy School Breakfasts Kids Can Eat on the Go

You don't need to compromise on your child's nutrition in order to make those crazy weekday mornings a little easier. If you're in need of some portable breakfast options that your kiddo can eat while on the go, these are the recipes to consider. Not only are these 15 ideas healthy, but they'll also bring that much-needed convenience to your hectic schedule.

The 9 Moms You'll Meet at the Pool This Summer

Unless you're one of those lucky moms who live by a beach, odds are, you and your kiddos will spend quite a few days at the pool this Summer. Full of lifeguard-suited teenagers, gangs of splashing kids, and moms jockeying for the best lounge chairs, the pool can make for a totally fun or completely stressful experience, often depending on the age of your kids and your own pool personality. As a mom of a 4-year-old fearless, but not yet competent, swimmer and an 18-month-old wild man, a day at my local pool usually instills more feelings of anxiety than excitement for me. Will my daughter listen when I tell her to stay close? Answer: almost definitely no. Will my son's swim diapers hold up? So far, thankfully, yes. While taking my kids to the pool can certainly be stress-inducing, it's almost always good for some people watching, and I've noticed nine distinct types of pool moms. Which one are you?

  1. The completely overwhelmed mom. She's toting a baby and a toddler, and she's not yet sure whether this trip to the pool was a great idea or the worst one she's ever had. (Her husband advised her to rethink the plan multiple times.) She spends two hours chasing her toddler around the shallow end while her baby tries to pull down her swimsuit top then decides to call it a day.
  2. The golden years mom. She's sitting in a lounge chair, reading the book of the Summer, with not a care in the world, except whether her iced tea might be running low. Her strong-swimming children are quite content playing with their friends all day while she reads, chats with friends, and maybe takes a dip or two. The kids find her when they need money or a snack, she obliges, then they head out again. She's the standard all other moms are trying to reach.
  3. The well-stocked mom. Need sunscreen, swim diapers, goggles, or pool toys? She's got them all, plus cut-up sandwiches, juice boxes, and even an extra towel or two. She puts a lot of thought into packing her extralarge pool bag, and this year, she added a cooler to the mix. Waters and freezer pops for everyone!
  4. The gym-rat mom. She spends nine months of the year Spinning, running, and doing interval training so that she looks amazing in a bikini, and now is her time to show off that body. Feel free to express your jealousy; she doesn't mind at all.
  5. The lifeguard mom. She isn't really interested in getting wet, but she doesn't trust her kids left to their own devices. You'll find her standing sentry on the side. If only the real lifeguards would lend her a whistle.
  6. The sun-worshipping mom. A former tanning-booth devotee, she's here for one reason and one reason only: to get a tan. Like the gym-rat mom, she's probably wearing as little as possible, both in terms of clothing and SPF. By mid-Summer, she'll be almost uncomfortably brown, and she'll love every single tan line.
  7. The sunscreen-wielding mom. This mom believes in applying 50+ SPF as often as possible. You'll often see her chasing around her kids, who are also wearing full-sleeved rash guards, floppy hats, and water shoes, with hands full of lotion. Otherwise, you'll find her safely ensconced under an umbrella.
  8. The deep-end mom. Who says kids should have all the fun? You'll find this mom in line for the slide, playing games in the deep end, and doing laps during adult swim. A former camp counselor and swim-team member, this is the season that she loves most, and she's soaking up every minute.
  9. The time-to-go mom. She's been trying, unsuccessfully, to round up her kids for more than an hour, and really, "It's time to go." But maybe, just maybe, she'll bring them back tomorrow.

Love Dogs but Suffer From Allergies? Here's What to Do

Problem: you love dogs, but you're allergic to them. You lean down to pet an adorable puppy, and suddenly you're sneezing. Pet dander sets off your immune system, which overreacts and causes a plethora of unfun symptoms. If this describes you, then you're part of the 15 percent of the population allergic to pets. What's a dog-crazy person to do? Do you have to give up puppies altogether? Say it ain't so!

Don't worry. Just because you have pet dander allergies doesn't mean you have to forgo owning a pet. You do have to be a little extra cautious about eliminating fur from your living space, but it's not as hard as you might think. We've got the scoop on simple, everyday strategies for reducing allergens from pets. These four practical tips emphasize prevention and can help allergy sufferers experience the joy of pet parenthood.

1. Baths and Brushing

Grooming gets the job done. No matter how fluffy your pet, a regular grooming routine will help to reduce allergens in your home. It's important to note that you're not actually allergic to your dog's fur. Instead, your immune system is overreacting to the dander, which are the dead skin flakes present in all that fluff. Er, yeah. Pet parenthood can be gross - which doesn't make us love our dogs any less.

Luckily, strategies for getting rid of pet fur will also help you get rid of the dander. This is where your grooming routine becomes key. Bathing your dog frequently removes the dead skin flakes that cause all that sneezing. In fact, giving your pet plenty of baths can reduce allergens by as much as 84 percent.

Just be sure to use a mild, pet-friendly shampoo, as you don't want to dry out your dog's skin. There are even shampoos and wipes specifically designed to reduce dog allergens while remaining gentle on your pet.

When it comes to brushing, there are lots of great pet hair removal tools that range from low-tech (rubber glove, anyone?) to high-end. Whatever you use for grooming, it's a good idea to get the fur removal done outdoors. That's right. When possible, brush your dog outside! This simple tip will reduce the likelihood of pet dander sticking around your home.

2. Allergen-Resistant House

Are you ready for this? For dog-lovers with pet dander allergies, it all comes down to one simple tip.

Get rid of the carpet.

True, that can be a big step. But consider that carpet is a likely spot for pet hair to hide - and those allergens can stick around for a long time, causing symptoms year-round. If you can swing it, have the carpet pulled up and replaced with dog-friendly flooring like laminate, tile, or hardwoods.

Even if it's not possible to get rid of your carpet, you can reduce trapped pet dander by ensuring that certain parts of your home are dog-free. This is particularly important for your sleeping area. As cuddly as your dog can be, don't let her sleep on your bed. Keeping your pet out of the bedroom will keep the allergens off your pillow.

3. Vacuum Power and Laundry Day

OK, so your dog has a tendency to hop that baby gate and sprawl out on your bedroom floor anyway. No worries: a powerful vacuum will still prevent pet fur from invading your space. A great vacuum is an allergy sufferer's friend. A HEPA filter is especially effective for keeping your home allergy-free.

Pro tip: Once you have the right vacuum, make sure you empty it outside! If you put those piles of fluff in your outdoor garbage can, you'll prevent clouds of pet dander from lingering in the house.

Frequently washing bedding - your own as well as your pet's - is another critical step for reducing pet dander. It helps to have dedicated dog blankets and beds for your pet, which you can wash often.

4. Proper Nutrition For Your Dog

Can your dog's food really make a difference when it comes to pet allergies? In a word, yes. Making sure that your dog is eating a nutrient-rich food that contains plenty of omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids should help. These nutrients ensure a shinier, stronger coat of fur.

Also, providing plenty of fresh drinking water keeps your pet hydrated, which in turn leads to a healthier skin and coat.

What About Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds?

If your allergies reach a critical point and prevention just isn't helping, you can always search for a hypoallergenic dog breed. Keep in mind that no dog is truly 100 percent dander-free, but there are around 20 breeds that produce less dander and often shed less, as well.

Check out 13 of the most popular hypoallergenic dog breeds here. Many of these dogs, such as poodles, have hair rather than fur - but that's not the reason they're considered good for allergy sufferers! In fact, it's because they have a single, rather than a double, coat - so you can expect less shedding.

Skip the Squats and Do These 15 Booty-Sculpting Moves Instead

Squats have their place in strength training, but there are plenty of other butt exercises out there! Mix up your routine, and try out the following moves that tone and lift your derrière. Who knows? You might say "so long" to squats (for now) and find a new favorite exercise in the bunch.

Skip the Squats and Do These 15 Booty-Sculpting Moves Instead

Squats have their place in strength training, but there are plenty of other butt exercises out there! Mix up your routine, and try out the following moves that tone and lift your derrière. Who knows? You might say "so long" to squats (for now) and find a new favorite exercise in the bunch.

This Walking Dead Fan Art Looks So Real You'll Think It's a Photo of Daryl Dixon

Photorealistic artist Barry Jazz Finnegan found an awesome way to pay tribute to The Walking Dead. Documented in a time-lapse video, he drew a giant black-and-white portrait of Norman Reedus, who plays Daryl Dixon on the AMC show. The charcoal art piece looks so real that even Norman himself had to share it on his Facebook. The video already has over 16,000 views, 200 reactions, and 200 shares at the time of writing.

Watch the video above to see Barry do his thing, and all to the show's theme song.

6 of Gabby Douglas's Most Superhuman Gymnastics Moves

They don't call her "the Flying Squirrel" for nothing!

These Are the 15 Movies From the '90s That You Need to Watch With Your Kids

Growing up in the '90s was the best of both worlds: I had epic '80s movies to play over and over again, and I got to live through 10 years of amazing film releases, many of which have stuck with me my whole life (and are still on constant rotation).

I spent half of 1997 begging my mom to buy me the Heart of the Ocean necklace, the better part of the late '90s trying to re-create "The Blob" with my camp friends (to no avail and with only minor injuries), and most of the decade singing "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)," "My Girl," and "We Are the Champions" at the top of my lungs. It was an exciting time to be alive, and though your children may never know what it was like to wait for a VHS tape to rewind (torture), these films need to be on a must-watch list so they can get a proper education of '90s culture.

Read through for the 15 movies from the '90s that you need to watch with your kids.

And be sure to check out these must-see flicks too:

6 of Gabby Douglas's Most Superhuman Gymnastics Moves

They don't call her "the Flying Squirrel" for nothing!

samedi 23 juillet 2016

What I Realized When I Curbed My Carb Intake

As a fitness editor, I get asked an exorbitant amount of health questions every week. The one that pops up more than any other is not surprising: what do you do when you want to lose weight? And when I respond with my honest answer, everyone's response is equally unsurprising.

I don't know whether they're expecting me to offer a magic pill or weird statistic they haven't heard, but when I say, "I cut back on carbs," faces drop and the subject almost immediately changes. You would be hard-pressed to find a woman who enjoys bread products as much as I do, but when I'm zapped of energy or want to feel my very best before a special event or vacation, I eat them very sparingly.

I had always considered myself to be a relatively clean eater, but it wasn't until I went Paleo for the first time that I realized just how often I was eating grains, bread, and pasta, and how different I felt when I stopped eating these foods. Once I cut these foods out of my diet for the sake of my cavewoman project, my experience of feeling bloated after every meal went away and my energy soared. I felt like I had been lifted out of a haze where everything looked a little clearer and sharper. And there was another welcome change I wasn't anticipating: I took off a significant amount of weight faster than I ever had before. Eliminating high-carb foods allows the body to get rid of glycogen (excess carb-stores held in the muscles) and with it, associated water weight. Whenever I cut back on carbs in my diet, the results are instant and dramatic.

Keep in mind that I would never commit to cutting out bread or grains forever. In terms of long-term and sustainable weight loss, cutting out a single food group forever is never a good idea. While cutting out carbs is what works for me when I want to take off weight quickly, it's important to point out that once I reintroduce high-carb foods, the water weight is quick to return. The only way weight loss lasts is when you're willing to make a real lifestyle change that includes an all-around balanced diet. That being said, cutting carbs does work when I want to jump-start my diet after an indulgent period or when I'm looking to shape up for a special event. All I have to do is keep up with my regular workout schedule and cut back on high-carb foods, and a week to 10 days later, my muscles look more defined, my clothes slide on easier, and my energy levels go through the roof. It has nothing to do with hitting a specific weight or trying to look "skinny," but it has everything to do with feeling a little more confident in that special dress, that tiny bikini, or . . . nothing at all.

What I Realized When I Curbed My Carb Intake

As a fitness editor, I get asked an exorbitant amount of health questions every week. The one that pops up more than any other is not surprising: what do you do when you want to lose weight? And when I respond with my honest answer, everyone's response is equally unsurprising.

I don't know whether they're expecting me to offer a magic pill or weird statistic they haven't heard, but when I say, "I cut back on carbs," faces drop and the subject almost immediately changes. You would be hard-pressed to find a woman who enjoys bread products as much as I do, but when I'm zapped of energy or want to feel my very best before a special event or vacation, I eat them very sparingly.

I had always considered myself to be a relatively clean eater, but it wasn't until I went Paleo for the first time that I realized just how often I was eating grains, bread, and pasta, and how different I felt when I stopped eating these foods. Once I cut these foods out of my diet for the sake of my cavewoman project, my experience of feeling bloated after every meal went away and my energy soared. I felt like I had been lifted out of a haze where everything looked a little clearer and sharper. And there was another welcome change I wasn't anticipating: I took off a significant amount of weight faster than I ever had before. Eliminating high-carb foods allows the body to get rid of glycogen (excess carb-stores held in the muscles) and with it, associated water weight. Whenever I cut back on carbs in my diet, the results are instant and dramatic.

Keep in mind that I would never commit to cutting out bread or grains forever. In terms of long-term and sustainable weight loss, cutting out a single food group forever is never a good idea. While cutting out carbs is what works for me when I want to take off weight quickly, it's important to point out that once I reintroduce high-carb foods, the water weight is quick to return. The only way weight loss lasts is when you're willing to make a real lifestyle change that includes an all-around balanced diet. That being said, cutting carbs does work when I want to jump-start my diet after an indulgent period or when I'm looking to shape up for a special event. All I have to do is keep up with my regular workout schedule and cut back on high-carb foods, and a week to 10 days later, my muscles look more defined, my clothes slide on easier, and my energy levels go through the roof. It has nothing to do with hitting a specific weight or trying to look "skinny," but it has everything to do with feeling a little more confident in that special dress, that tiny bikini, or . . . nothing at all.

Here's Another Harry Potter Detail We Can't Believe We Never Noticed Before

J.K. Rowling always surprises us with the amount of detail she poured into Harry Potter, and it feels like every day we learn something new about the series. Reddit user SunshineallDay's fan theory provides more evidence of how much Rowling hid in her books.

It might be hard to catch when you're first reading, but look a little closer and you'll see it. The fun Easter egg shows how Hermione's character learned Wizard Baruffio wasn't the most intelligent in The Sorcerer's Stone from Professor Flitwick. Later in The Order of the Phoenix, Harry and Ron are tempted to drink Baruffio's Brain Elixir before their O.W.L.s, but Hermione clearly recalls their lesson and pours the drink down the toilet. An image from the books highlighting these two passages is below.

Image Source: Reddit user sunshineallday

As if we needed another reminder of how sharp Hermione is! Really, what impressed us most about this is Rowling's memory - and that we can keep rereading the books and find more fun coincidences like this.

Related:

The 12 Lessons You Learn as a Young Girl but Forget as a Mom

As the mom of a daughter, I often think about the big life lessons I want to teach her. In doing so, however, I've discovered that a lot of the important ones I learned as a young girl didn't necessarily make their way to womanhood. They got lost along the way, and now, as a mother, I'm having to relearn them alongside my child.

Here, some of the hallmark lessons I hope and pray she'll remember her whole life long.

1. Trust your instincts.
From a young age, your gut will steer you in a very clear direction. Listen to it. It's your intuition, and nine times out of 10, it's right on. As you get older, though, you might push back against your better judgment - often because someone is trying to sway you, pressure you into a different way of thinking. It's important you don't back down from what you believe in.

2. Take risks . . . but understand the consequences.
Don't be afraid to take a leap. Just be prepared for what happens if you fall.

3. Never let anyone tell you you can't do something.
You might not notice it now, but at some point in your life, you'll begin to think that there's just certain things you can't do - only boys are good at that, only rich kids can have those, only popular girls go there - and it'll quickly become the standard way of thinking if you let it. Don't ever base your actions on the approval of others. You alone call the shots on what you can do.

4. Love freely.
Hearts that don't break don't love. A flower will wither, a beloved pet will get sick, and someday "The One" might not stay. Keep loving just the same.

5. Love your body.
It's the only one you've got. Treat it with respect - feed it healthfully, and it'll grow just as it should. If it's not what you wanted, if someone else's body seems better, get over it.

6. Learning from mistakes is better than being smart.
Natural talent is incredible, it really is. But it's not necessary. Dedication and hard work will get you further in life, and the times you slip up will provide you with more opportunities to develop than when you simply get it right.

7. You can only do your best.
Yes, nothing is worth doing if you don't do your best. But also accept that there will be times when your best won't be good enough. You might try your hardest and still not succeed. Accept defeat, but don't let it keep you from trying again.

8. The world will change you if you let it.
It's no secret that the world is a difficult place. War, starvation, violence, hatred - they can harden the softest, most innocent of souls. Consider these trying times as defining moments, in which you are being tested. Will you let a persistent bully make you angry and afraid, or will you rise above and remember that the world can be a beautiful place, too?

9. Admit when you're wrong.
It can be frustrating to swallow your pride, but the simple words, "I'm sorry" - when expressed genuinely - can work wonders on a damaged friendship.

10. Crying doesn't make you weak.
Denying your emotions is the worst thing you can do, second only to holding on to pain for too long. If you need to cry, do it. Let it out, and then let it go.

11. Time can heal most wounds.
For those terrible things, when a good cry doesn't suffice, know that time - and with it, perspective - can work wonders. You must have patience and an ability to compartmentalize to get through each day. Just remember that some heartache will always stay with you, so you'll have to learn how to live with it.

12. Don't take others too personally . . . or yourself too seriously.
Try not to let criticisms tear you apart just as you shouldn't let compliments go to your head. Don't expect everyone to treat you the way you deserve to be treated. And as important as you are, don't assume that the world revolves around you. Your mother's world might, but she's the exception.

Buffy Fans, Take a Peek at This Coloring Book Made For You

Buffy fans, your life is about to get a little more exciting with the release of a Buffy the Vampire Slayer coloring book. That's right - you can relax your mind by coloring in some epic scenes of Buffy kicking ass.

The book, available for preorder and out on Jan. 17, 2017, costs only $15 and has 45 illustrations. In it, you'll get to color in several of your favorite scenes and characters from the show - probably something you're going to do as you're rewatching the series again. The art is all original and made by artists who have contributed to the comic book series. A peek of the cover is below.

You can add this book to your growing wishlist of Buffy gifts, like iPhone cases and dresses, because after all, all Buffy fans know that your love of the show never really dies.

Here's 1 More Reason to Love the Comeback of The Powerpuff Girls


When people found out the Powerpuff Girls were coming back to television, it felt like a dream come true - and a well-deserved reboot. It definitely helped that anyone could finally "Powerpuff" themselves and become a hero like Blossom, Buttercup, and Bubbles. Well, you can add another reason to love the reboot: at this year's Comic-Con, the creators and cast revealed the awesome reason the show came back.

At the panel, Bob Boyle, co-executive producer and Nick Jennings, executive producer, talked about how they built upon the previous foundation of the original Powerpuff Girls. They kept the core dynamic of the girls and dug deeper into who they are - without really changing their original story. "For us, you [the fans] connecting with the characters and loving the characters is the thing that drives the show," said Jennings.

In the question and answer portion, one fan asked why the need to bring Powerpuff girls back. And while jokes were made about it making money for Cartoon Network, Jennings got straight to the point: girl empowerment and changing the perception of power.

"To show this not only to young women, but to men that girls should be in positions of power," said Jennings. Boyle furthered that thought. "Girl superheroes used to be an anomaly and it's part of every day geek culture," said Boyle. "It's ok for girls to be geeks and be superheroes."

That type of answer is one we continue to keep hearing and seeing. It's similar to the answer from Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D's Clark Gregg gave at last year's Comic-Con, when he told an 8-year old girl that she could run the superhero program one day. Just another reminder that women are part of geek culture - now and always.

12 Times You Could Totally Relate to the Exotic Trash Panda

Trash pandas are misunderstood, we swear. They might get a bad rap for being dirty or annoying, but we know the truth - they're awesome. They're feisty little creatures that act a lot like us, if we're being honest. In fact, we can definitely relate to them quite often. Scroll through to see the 12 times you may have felt a little bit like a trash panda and take comfort in knowing you're not alone!

Mark Hamill's Response to a Lightsaber Made For Him Only Confirms He's the Best

Mark Hamill fans are truly dedicated and it's no wonder why. The original Luke Skywalker in the early Star Wars films remains humble and reciprocates all the love he gets. His latest reaction after receiving an amazing gift from a fan only confirms he's the best.

At this year's Star Wars Celebration in London, a fan and employee from Hampton's Handcrafted LED Sabers gave Mark a custom Joker lightsaber that customers pitched in to create. The lightsaber even came equipped with Mark's laugh as the Joker from his voice-over days in Batman: The Animated Series. Mark thought it was a pretty cool gadget but was blown away once he realized it was his to keep.

Watch the video above to see his awesome reaction and become even more of a fan.

Harry Potter Nerds Will Cry Over This Moment From the Fantastic Beasts Comic-Con Panel

Between all the magical moments at this year's Warner Bros. Comic-Con panel, the most touching went back to the basics: actual, outright magic. When presenting the trailer for Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, star Eddie Redmayne didn't simply press play - instead, he and the cast gave out replicas of character Newt Scamander's wand and led the crowd in a chant of the illumination charm "Lumos Maxima." Every Potterhead in the packed Hall H (which seats 6500) lifted their new wand to the sky and recited the charm, and the result will give you chills.

The act of Potter fans lifting their wands together is a symbolic one, often serving as a heartfelt memorial in times of darkness. But despite all the madness in the world lately, this inspiring moment at the Comic-Con panel was one of celebration, harkening a new era of JK Rowling's magical world. Say it with us: "Lumos Maxima!" Now, where can we find one of those cool new wands?

25 Pool Party Cakes That Make a Splash!

While some Summer babies celebrate their birthday by the beach, others opt for an old-fashioned pool party. And since you can't have a party without cake, why not incorporate the theme into your confection? Complete with water wings, slides, and lifeguards, these pool-themed cakes are sure to impress your guests.

65 Pet Costumes to DIY on the Cheap

Yes, you found your costume, but what about your furry best friend? Read on to get inspired by some of the best DIY pet costumes around - all for super cheap!

- Additional reporting by Ashley Paige

Why Today's Pokémon Go Players Won't Know What It's Like to Be a True Fan

Any Pokémon fan will remember the glory days of booting up your Game Boy and spending hours playing the game. And while we're pretty happy that Pokémon Go is making people try anything in their quest to become a Pokémon master, we know that we were here first - and aren't just discovering the game and its characters for the first time. Don't call us bitter; just call us fans who want everyone else to know what it's really like to see everyone playing Pokémon Go.

50+ Pokémon Tattoos That Will Inspire You to Catch 'Em All

The Pokémon craze is certainly not a new thing, but a horde of newbies are entering the fandom since the release of Pokémon Go. Now alums and rookies alike are bonding over the obsession with the new game and nostalgia over the original one - and it's a beautiful thing. So whether you're a new Pokémon fanatic or have been a fan for years and years, you'll love these tattoo ideas that express the love of all things Pokémon.

The Reactions to the Wonder Woman Trailer Prove We Needed This Movie


Ever since Wonder Woman appeared in Batman vs Superman, fans couldn't wait to see the first glimpse of her origin movie. Well, now the trailer for Wonder Woman is here and people seriously cannot contain themselves online.

It's clear from people's thoughts on Twitter that it's about damn time Wonder Woman got her own movie. The best part? The trailer paints the new film as an epic one you cannot miss and will rewatch over and over again. Check out some of the best reactions below and don't be surprised if you feel the same.