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.
lundi 20 mars 2017
Supergirl's Melissa Benoist and Chris Wood Are Dating
Melissa Benoist and Chris Wood are taking their onscreen romance into the real world. The Supergirl costars are dating, ET confirms. The pair was spotted walking their dogs in downtown Vancouver on March 17. This is Melissa's first relationship since she filed for divorce from Glee star Blake Jenner in December, while Chris recently split from Containment costar Hanna Mangan Lawrence. In February, Chris couldn't help but gush over Melissa while promoting the Supergirl and The Flash musical crossover, saying, "[Melissa and I have] found this nice pocket for the characters to live in. It was just so easy to play and she's just so generous as an actress that she just keeps it rolling. She makes it easy."
Why It's OK to Care About Celebrity News and "Real Issues" at the Same Time
We've all been there - you scroll through Facebook, you stumble upon an article, and before you can even click in to read and judge it for yourself, you spot it: the inevitable "Who cares?" sitting atop the list of comments like a harbinger of hostility. It's typically followed by an effusive reply: "You, since you took time to comment!," which feels like vindication but really just opens a whole new can of worms. This trifecta of passive aggression is finally rounded out with some variation of "This is news?," "Focus on the real issues!," or "There are more important things going on in the world right now."
This bothers me for a few reasons, none of which involve the fact that it's literally my job to care about and cover those so-called "unimportant" things. It is, of course, entirely possible to care about more than one thing at the same time. Our brains can process, store, and maintain an incredible amount of information; that's why you can walk and chew gum at the same time, or worry about world hunger while also wondering what you're going to eat for lunch that day. But this sentiment also implies that only hard, serious news is "important," and ignores the reality: that it's just really, really exhausting to be focused on the "real issues" all the time.
It implies that only hard, serious news is "important" and ignores the reality: that it's just really, really exhausting to be focused on the "real issues" all the time.
The past two years have been pretty rough, both mentally and emotionally, where the news is concerned: I personally am simultaneously stressed out about everyday life things like succeeding at work, paying bills on time, and maintaining personal relationships while also dealing with the added anxiety of mass shootings, police brutality, rape culture, climate change, and Donald Trump being president. On top of dealing with street harassment and the possibility of being hit by a Muni bus while walking in the city, I also have to consider the chances of my family members being racially profiled by police and my friends traveling abroad being caught in a terrorist attack. There are "real issues" that plague us every day in our families, our friend groups, our romantic relationships, and our neighborhoods. I'm well aware of the "real issues." I'm fully caught up on the "actual news." And like many other people, I'm f*cking drained.
That is precisely why, when a famous couple gets engaged or divorced, a superhot actor goes shirtless on the beach, or Beyoncé announces that she's pregnant with twins, we should let ourselves care about it. We should give ourselves (and each other) the freedom and space to get excited and express enthusiasm about celebrity news, because it offers a respite from all the completely depressing things going on - at least until another completely depressing thing happens.
As Cheryl Strayed once wrote: "There are so many things to be tortured about, sweet pea. So many torturous things in this life." Life isn't easy, and we all need something to help us through it. For some people, it's yoga and meditation; for others it's reading about all the women Leonardo DiCaprio has dated, poring over photos of Prince George, or watching the drama unfold between Kim Kardashian and Taylor Swift. The best part is that there's room for all of it; you can support the Black Lives Matter movement while also hoping that Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner get back together, and you can follow this trash fire that is a Trump presidency with the same fervor as you follow Chrissy Teigen's Instagram account.
The next time somebody tries to make you feel bad for essentially taking a break from the "more important things going on in the world," calmly remind them that as a living, breathing, human person, you are fully capable of grasping both world news and pop culture headlines. When it comes to what you turn to for self-care (especially in trying times), you just need to do you. At the end of the day: who cares?
Music Legend Chuck Berry Died of Natural Causes
Chuck Berry passed away at age 90 on Saturday, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed. The St. Charles County Police Department responded to an emergency call at 12:40 p.m. and later confirmed on Facebook that the rock 'n' roll pioneer was "pronounced deceased at 1:26 p.m." On Monday, TMZ reported that the music legend died of natural causes, and there will reportedly be no autopsy. Chuck's personal doctor is expected to sign off on his death certificate. Read the police's official statement in full below.
#SCCPDNEWS: St. Charles County police responded to a medical emergency on Buckner Road at approximately 12:40 p.m. today...
Posted by St. Charles County Police Department on Saturday, March 18, 2017
Known for hits like "Sweet Little Sixteen," "Rock and Roll Music," and "Roll Over Beethoven," Chuck influenced several generations, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. He was one of the first musicians inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. He is survived by wife Themetta Suggs and his four children, Ingrid, Aloha, Charles Jr., and Melody.
Your White Sneakers Will Look Brand New With This Cleaning Guide
As someone who is obsessed with all-white sneakers - and someone who also happens to be a stain magnet (acai drippings, spilled bright green matcha, black treadmill scuffs) - I've had my fair share of experience with stain removal.
A few weeks ago, POPSUGAR's CEO Brian asked me if my all-white Adidas PureBoostX sneakers were new, and I was more than pleased with myself when I told him, "I got them last year, but I just cleaned them!" It was then it dawned on me - it's time to share my behind-the-scenes sneaker cleaning tips with the world. These tips aren't necessarily expert approved by some sneaker dry cleaning studio in LA or anything, but they've been keeping my collection looking fresh as ever. Check out what I've got in my arsenal:
First Line of Defense: Touch-Up
Tools: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Tide to Go Pen, Spot Shot, and a toothbrush
For simple touch-ups, one of these tools can do the trick. My first go-to always? Mr. Clean. With a little water, you can scrub both the rubber outsole as well as the fabric upper of your shoe, and it works on a variety of stains and marks on multiple materials. If I'm on the go and don't have Mr. Clean with me, I always have a Tide pen in my gym bag. And the last move I make before I move onto the soaking phase is some Spot Shot with a toothbrush - scrub, scrub, scrub.
Overhaul: Soak
Tools: Bathtub or empty trash can, warm water, OxiClean, and detergent pod
There's not a ton of method to this madness. For shoes that need a brightening, I mix about a scoop of OxiClean with a detergent pod in a tub of warm water and let my shoes soak - sometimes for a full day. Then I rinse the soapy water thoroughly with a shower head or in the sink and air-dry them, removing the soles to expedite the drying process. If you have an air-dry, no-tumble setting in your drier, you can use that too.
Last Resort: Wash
Tools: Low setting on your washing machine
Look, I know I'm probably going to get a lot of sh*t for this, but I've had crazy-good success and none of my sneakers have been destroyed. If the soaking didn't get all the dirt out, remove the soles and put your shoes in on the lowest possible setting of your washing machine, again with a scoop of OxiClean and a detergent pod. After a wash cycle, let them air-dry - they'll be sparkly clean! In my experience, the shoes have come out looking brand new and I have no tragedies to report, but please be careful with this step and only use it when absolutely necessary.
Your White Sneakers Will Look Brand New With This Cleaning Guide
As someone who is obsessed with all-white sneakers - and someone who also happens to be a stain magnet (acai drippings, spilled bright green matcha, black treadmill scuffs) - I've had my fair share of experience with stain removal.
A few weeks ago, POPSUGAR's CEO Brian asked me if my all-white Adidas PureBoostX sneakers were new, and I was more than pleased with myself when I told him, "I got them last year, but I just cleaned them!" It was then it dawned on me - it's time to share my behind-the-scenes sneaker cleaning tips with the world. These tips aren't necessarily expert approved by some sneaker dry cleaning studio in LA or anything, but they've been keeping my collection looking fresh as ever. Check out what I've got in my arsenal:
First Line of Defense: Touch-Up
Tools: Mr. Clean Magic Eraser, Tide to Go Pen, Spot Shot, and a toothbrush
For simple touch-ups, one of these tools can do the trick. My first go-to always? Mr. Clean. With a little water, you can scrub both the rubber outsole as well as the fabric upper of your shoe, and it works on a variety of stains and marks on multiple materials. If I'm on the go and don't have Mr. Clean with me, I always have a Tide pen in my gym bag. And the last move I make before I move onto the soaking phase is some Spot Shot with a toothbrush - scrub, scrub, scrub.
Overhaul: Soak
Tools: Bathtub or empty trash can, warm water, OxiClean, and detergent pod
There's not a ton of method to this madness. For shoes that need a brightening, I mix about a scoop of OxiClean with a detergent pod in a tub of warm water and let my shoes soak - sometimes for a full day. Then I rinse the soapy water thoroughly with a shower head or in the sink and air-dry them, removing the soles to expedite the drying process. If you have an air-dry, no-tumble setting in your drier, you can use that too.
Last Resort: Wash
Tools: Low setting on your washing machine
Look, I know I'm probably going to get a lot of sh*t for this, but I've had crazy-good success and none of my sneakers have been destroyed. If the soaking didn't get all the dirt out, remove the soles and put your shoes in on the lowest possible setting of your washing machine, again with a scoop of OxiClean and a detergent pod. After a wash cycle, let them air-dry - they'll be sparkly clean! In my experience, the shoes have come out looking brand new and I have no tragedies to report, but please be careful with this step and only use it when absolutely necessary.
Music Legend Chuck Berry Died of Natural Causes
Chuck Berry passed away at age 90 on Saturday, The Hollywood Reporter confirmed. The St. Charles County Police Department responded to an emergency call at 12:40 p.m. and later confirmed on Facebook that the rock 'n' roll pioneer was "pronounced deceased at 1:26 p.m." On Monday, TMZ reported that the music legend died of natural causes, and there will reportedly be no autopsy. Chuck's personal doctor is expected to sign off on his death certificate. Read the police's official statement in full below.
#SCCPDNEWS: St. Charles County police responded to a medical emergency on Buckner Road at approximately 12:40 p.m. today...
Posted by St. Charles County Police Department on Saturday, March 18, 2017
Known for hits like "Sweet Little Sixteen," "Rock and Roll Music," and "Roll Over Beethoven," Chuck influenced several generations, including The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. He was one of the first musicians inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. He is survived by wife Themetta Suggs and his four children, Ingrid, Aloha, Charles Jr., and Melody.
The Weeknd Takes Selena Gomez on a Romantic Aquarium Date in Toronto
Selena Gomez and The Weeknd touched down in his hometown of Toronto last week, and on Sunday, The Weeknd stole a page out of pal Drake's playbook and took Selena on a romantic date at Ripley's Aquarium. The "Reminder" singer shared a number of photos and videos from the outing on his Instagram story, including a Boomerang video of Selena twirling around and a shot of him gazing into a jellyfish tank. The aquarium just so happens to be the same one Drake and Rihanna visited back in 2016. No word on whether Selena and The Weeknd got matching shark tattoos.
Selena and The Weeknd were first photographed together in LA in January, and since then, they have been parading their romance all over the world, making stops in Italy, Paris, and Amsterdam. Guess we'll just have to wait and see where they pop up next!
Tyler Florence's Hack Will Forever Change the Way You Make Mashed Potatoes
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Nicole Perry
Food Network chef Tyler Florence shared his mashed potatoes recipe with us, and I immediately had to try it. Traditionally, potatoes are cooked in water before being mashed together with butter and cream (or milk). However, Tyler suggests cooking the potatoes in the cream itself, so no potato-y flavor is lost. He explains, "Potatoes have a really delicate, beautiful minerality to their flavor profile, and when you cook potatoes in water and you pour that water down the drain, you've extracted all the flavor of the potato. So what I do with mashed potatoes - because you finish them with cream and butter anyway, right? - is I'll take that same cream and butter and add that to the potatoes and cook the potatoes in cream and butter." Would that actually work? Would it actually taste good? I had to find out.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
As Tyler instructed, I added "cold, peeled, chopped potatoes, cream, butter, and olive oil" to a pan. He also told us, "I like garlic. I like sage and rosemary flavor combinations, and a little bit of thyme." To my pot of 3 pounds of potatoes, I added enough half and half to just barely cover the potatoes. Frankly, I was scared about using straight cream, which is why I deviated slightly from his instruction. I then added about 3 tablespoons of salted butter and 3 tablespoons of olive oil. I added a few cloves of peeled garlic and half a bunch each of sage, rosemary, and thyme. I also included a significant amount of salt (at least a teaspoon) so the potatoes could absorb some of the flavor while cooking. I covered the pot and allowed it to simmer on medium until the potatoes became fork tender, about 20 minutes. The aroma in my kitchen was unbelievable.
Image Source: POPSUGAR Photography / Anna Monette Roberts
Here's what Tyler told us to do next: "When the potatoes are tender, I put a bowl on the counter and a colander inside that bowl. I pour the potatoes through the colander, and the cream will collect on the bottom. Then I'll put the potatoes back into the pot and take the potato-infused garlic cream and fold that back into the potatoes, and it's the most incredible flavor profile. It's the best mashed potato you'll ever taste in your entire life." And so, I did just that. I drained the potatoes, collecting the rich liquid while discarding the herb stems. I then mashed the potatoes, adding back in the liquid until I created velvety smooth mashed potatoes with little specks of garlic and herbs. I salted and peppered to taste and served up with my lemon-garlic-parsley roast turkey and gravy. These mashed potatoes are pure heaven. I can now agree with Tyler's affirmation; they really are the best mashed potatoes I've ever tasted in my entire life. And even though I was scared it would be a huge flop, I'm never going back to any other method again.
The Weeknd Takes Selena Gomez on a Romantic Aquarium Date in Toronto
Selena Gomez and The Weeknd touched down in his hometown of Toronto last week, and on Sunday, The Weeknd stole a page out of pal Drake's playbook and took Selena on a romantic date at Ripley's Aquarium. The "Reminder" singer shared a number of photos and videos from the outing on his Instagram story, including a Boomerang video of Selena twirling around and a shot of him gazing into a jellyfish tank. The aquarium just so happens to be the same one Drake and Rihanna visited back in 2016. No word on whether Selena and The Weeknd got matching shark tattoos.
Selena and The Weeknd were first photographed together in LA in January, and since then, they have been parading their romance all over the world, making stops in Italy, Paris, and Amsterdam. Guess we'll just have to wait and see where they pop up next!
This Model With Cat Eye Syndrome Is Making Her Mark in Fashion
Caitin Stickels was born with a rare disorder, but she's not letting it stop her from taking the fashion world by storm.
This Model With Cat Eye Syndrome Is Making Her Mark in Fashion
Caitin Stickels was born with a rare disorder, but she's not letting it stop her from taking the fashion world by storm.
6 Ed Sheeran Music Videos That Will Destroy Your Emotions
Ed Sheeran writes some of the most beautiful and catchy pieces of music out there, and while it's exciting to see him in concert or listen to a playlist of his songs, one of the best ways to capture the emotions in his songs is through his music videos. The 26-year-old singer/songwriter released his first music video for "The A Team" back in 2010, and though it's definitely one of the most emotional, he's since put out several other videos that are sure to leave you drowning in a puddle of your own tears for one reason or another.
Ahead, we gathered the six Ed Sheeran music videos sure to completely f*ck with your emotions (and now that Divide is a chart-topper, we're sure there will be videos for his new tearjerkers soon, hopefully including "Supermarket Flowers").
Leonardo DiCaprio and Nina Agdal Hold Hands During a Casual Stroll in NYC
Leonardo DiCaprio and Nina Agdal are still going strong! The couple has been keeping a low profile as of late, but on Sunday, the two were photographed holding hands while strolling through Central Park in NYC. Leo kept things casual in his signature newsboy cap and sunglasses, while Nina also did the same in a puffy coat and sneakers. Leo recently announced his investment in LoveTheWild (a sustainable food company that sells farm-raised frozen seafood meals), and Nina currently graces the cover of Maxim's March issue, so perhaps they've just been busy with work commitments.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Nina Agdal Hold Hands During a Casual Stroll in NYC
Leonardo DiCaprio and Nina Agdal are still going strong! The couple has been keeping a low profile as of late, but on Sunday, the two were photographed holding hands while strolling through Central Park in NYC. Leo kept things casual in his signature newsboy cap and sunglasses, while Nina also did the same in a puffy coat and sneakers. Leo recently announced his investment in LoveTheWild (a sustainable food company that sells farm-raised frozen seafood meals), and Nina currently graces the cover of Maxim's March issue, so perhaps they've just been busy with work commitments.
This Genius Eye Shadow Hack Lets You Save Space and Create Custom Palettes
For makeup addicts, saving space is an essential part of maintaining a collection. It doesn't matter if we're running out of space in our Ikea Alex drawers - sooner or later we are going to need the latest eye shadow, blush, or highlighter and attempt to cram another product into our overflowing assortment.
It's at that moment when savvy beauty enthusiasts take a tip from the pros and save space by depotting. This consists of removing eye shadow (and other pressed powder formulas) from bulky packaging and popping the pans into magnetic palettes. By depotting your favorite shades, makeup becomes easily accessible and drawers suddenly have room for even more products.
Depotting doesn't just act as an organization technique - it also makes packing super simple. As you might know, it can be hard to decide which eye shadow palettes should travel with you. With this method, you can select exactly the colors you want to take with you on your trip and build a custom palette. Genius!
Read on to find out how to use this method for a more organized and transportable makeup collection.
Is Iron Fist Really That Bad?
Released this past Friday, Netflix's newest Marvel series Iron Fist has received mostly negative reviews. It's currently holding a dismal 17 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with an only slightly better 37 percent rating on Metacritic. Its performance is particularly surprising given the critical acclaim the other shows in Netflix's Marvel lineup have received. Jessica Jones holds a 93 percent rating on Rotten Tomatoes, while Luke Cage and Daredevil are at a 96 percent and an 87 percent, respectively. So what is it about Iron Fist that's making critics tear it apart and throw it to the wolves? After binging the entire first season, here are a few ideas. Spoilers ahead!
1. Uninspired Dialogue
You know that feeling when you realize you've accidentally said something aloud that was meant to remain an internal thought? That's essentially what happens throughout the entire series, except Danny (Finn Jones) does it on purpose. He is overly trusting and honest to a fault, sharing every emotion or thought that he has. The character is a nice change of pace in comparison to the more traditional, emotionally closed-off superhero, but his candidness doesn't help the story progress.
Also, almost every time he's on screen with a female character, he begins to mansplain, causing our eyes to roll. Case in point: he explains to Colleen the basics of martial arts instruction, even though she's been running a dojo for years.
2. Lackluster Fight Scenes
Iron Fist is a superhero who is supposed to be a martial arts master and talented acrobat with heightened speed and strength. He fights many different battles throughout the season, but it isn't his skill or power that allows him to win. Everyone he fights seems to be an equal match to him. It's only after mustering up courage and channeling his chi (things that can't be seen) that he's able to overcome his opponent. Furthermore, the actual "iron fist" (glowing hand and all), is hardly ever used due to a constant "emotional blockage."
3. Abandoned Plot Lines
New plot lines are introduced and built up, but never resolve; they just fizzle out, making the storyline harder to follow. For example, The Hand's chemist and his daughter are taken hostage. Danny and his friends move heaven and earth to rescue them, which they do to some extent. The daughter is saved but never reunited with her father or seen/mentioned again. This kind of thing happens countless times: Danny, Colleen, and Claire make an unnecessary one-day trip to China. Colleen's "troubled past" is hardly explained. We never learn what The Hand has done to Harold to make him immortal. No one looks for Ward after he's institutionalized against his will. Some of these are more important than others, but if they aren't significant enough to resolve fully, why include them at all?
4. Unlikable Characters
Almost every single character in Iron Fist is unlikeable, untrustworthy, and unremarkable. Yes, Danny was chosen to be the Iron Fist and he's a relatively good guy. However, his naiveté, honesty, and trust in others are what cause all of his troubles. He never realizes this, making him very annoying. Colleen is great, until you find out that she's a member of The Hand. Let's not even get started on the Meachum family. From murder and kidnapping to drug addiction and abuse, they're one hot mess after another. Sadly, the most likable characters of the series, Hogarth and Claire, aren't featured as much as they should be. (They're also pulled from the other Marvel shows.)
Despite these imperfections and most critics' harsh opinions, fans seem to love the show. In fact, most of the tweets under the #IronFist hashtag have been generally positive and in support of the new Marvel series. Hopefully, that's enough to convince Netflix to keep the show around for season two!
Prince Harry Reunites With Old Friends at a Special Ceremony in London
Following his trip to Epping Forest, Prince Harry attended a ceremony to celebrate the bicentenary of relations between the UK and Nepal at the Embassy of Nepal in London on Monday. The young royal was presented with a photograph from one of his previous visits to the country and caught up with old friends Hari Budha Magar and Vinod Budhathoki, who served alongside him in Afghanistan. Prince William and Kate Middleton were not in attendance, but they recently returned from their two-day trip to Paris over the weekend.
In March 2016, Harry became the first British royal to visit Nepal since the monarchy was eliminated back in 2008. During his five-day tour of the country, he met with the prime minister and president, visited with the survivors of the tragic earthquake in Bhaktapur, and was dubbed "village head man" during a visit to the town of Leorani.
Horrible Cramps? Marijuana Might Just Be the Answer
Women often rely on heating pads, painkillers, and their go-to chocolate bar to deal with PMS each month. And then there's Midol. Since the 1930s, the over-the-counter acetaminophen-based drug has been marketed to women for their "periodic pain." Beyond that, there haven't been many new mainstream medical options available to alleviate stubborn menstrual discomfort. Searching for remedies, women have turned to various holistic and alternative medicine treatments like chasteberry, Mayan abdominal massage, or acupuncture.
Perhaps we just need to look back to ancient times for another viable remedy: cannabis. Medical marijuana is now legal in 28 states and Washington DC, and cannabis is on the rise as an innovative solution for managing PMS. That's good news for women dealing with cramps, headaches, or irritability.
Relief For Common Symptoms
While marijuana has been a medicinal remedy for millennia, there is a lack of modern research on it. That's because it is difficult to acquire research grants from the National Institute of Health while pot is still illegal at the federal level. But a few promising studies do exist, and reviews of existing literature have concluded that cannabis effectively treats otherwise treatment-resistant conditions, including pain management. Despite the lack of research, many "green doctors" consider PMS a qualifying condition for a marijuana prescription to provide relief from common PMS symptoms.
"Cannabis definitely plays a role in pain reduction," says Dr. Jennifer Berman, a cohost on The Doctors who specializes in women's sexual health. She notes that cannabis has been effective for people with chronic pain and those with inflammatory autoimmune conditions; in light of this, it should also work for menstrual cramps. Whether eaten, smoked, or inserted vaginally, Dr. Berman says cannabis may "help modulate and minimize muscle spasm and pain" by relaxing the muscles in the uterus and increasing blood flow.
"If you don't get relief from Ibuprofen, [marijuana] would be something I would recommend you try."
The standard of care for severe menstrual cramps is Ibuprofen, according to Dr. Berman. If that doesn't work, mainstream medicine will prescribe narcotic pain medication. Both options come with downsides. "Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, like Motrin or Advil, can have side effects if taken consistently over the course of 24 hours," she explains. "It could be hard on your stomach. They may interact with other medications. They can cause bleeding." In addition, narcotics use can become habit. While she notes there isn't hard data to back it up, her patients have found success in using cannabis products to relieve PMS. "If you don't get relief from Ibuprofen, this would be something I would recommend you try."
Alle Weil is one of many women who have felt the positive impact of cannabis. Weil is a certified holistic health counselor who has seen results both professionally and personally. Weil often works with women to solve menstrual-related issues when mainstream medicine doesn't work. "Based on various accounts, positive feedback, research, and my own personal experience, cannabis is a growing resolution for a number of inflammatory issues associated with a woman's cycle," Weil said.
What to Look For
If you're going to explore the world of medical marijuana for PMS, you'll have to learn a few things. First, you'll want to understand your state laws and get a medical marijuana prescription. Before visiting a dispensary, you'll also need to know the difference between cannabinoids THC and CBD, the chemical compounds found in cannabis. Dispensaries very often categorize their products by the amount of THC and CBD they contain. Here's a crash course on the two:
- THC: Stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. It simulates your CB1 receptor, the part of your central nervous system that processes appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory. THC has psychoactive properties. You tend to feel more relaxed, and it also helps with pain. Negative side effects of THC include anxiety (that oft-described paranoid feeling) and sedation.
- CBD: Stands for cannabidiol. It reduces THC's ability to stimulate the CB1 receptors, reducing some side effects of THC, including anxiety, increased appetite, and the feeling of being "high." It also has anti-inflammatory properties of its own.
Studies suggest there is a benefit from combining THC and CBD, because it allows you get more results with fewer side effects. Depending on what your symptoms are and what side effects you're comfortable with, the levels of CBD are often the determining factor. Put simply, choose more CBD if you don't want to feel high. In addition, there are other strains of marijuana, like THCV. Both THCV and CBD have been shown to reduce appetite. These "skinny cannabinoids" might be ideal for PMS, since "the munchies" often increase feelings of bloatedness.
The Various Products and Methods
When it comes to actual treatment, there is no shortage of specific period products. Foria Relief recently gained notoriety as the "weed tampon." A vaginal suppository you can use along with a tampon, it releases pain-decreasing cannabis in your uterus, helping to relieve cramps. The suppository can also be inserted rectally to relieve pain in the back and hip areas. Foria Relief contains both THC and CBD and does not cause psychoactive effects in most women, in part because it is inserted vaginally. While Foria is developing a study to further understand the benefits of vaginal delivery, the current understanding is that the suppository prevents the liver from processing THC, allowing the medicine to be absorbed locally without getting you high. In addition to reducing the effects of being high, CBD relaxes muscles and acts as an antianxiety and anti-inflammatory agent, according to the company.
Mathew Gerson founded Foria, which started off making a line of cannabis-infused female pleasure products. Gerson told us why it's important that women don't get high from the Foria cannabis suppository: "The number of women who could benefit from what it [cannabis] has to offer with respect to menstrual cramps is a much larger number if they didn't have to deal with being stoned." He says the suppository delivery method still allows for a high cannabis potency, but since it won't get you high, you can go about your day - going to work, taking care of your family, or enjoying time with friends. Currently, Foria is available only online to California residents with a valid physician's recommendation letter or at dispensaries in Colorado and California.
Since it doesn't get you high or put you into a more relaxed state, Dr. Berman says Foria might not be able to treat other symptoms of PMS, like irritability, but sees little downside to the product. "The only limitations are the regulatory restrictions state to state, that it takes 20 minutes to work, and you have to lay down." She also says the potential for abuse is always a concern when you're dealing with any drug.
Whoopi Goldberg has also launched a new line of cannabis products designed to give you relief from menstrual pain. Goldberg teamed up with Maya Elisabeth, the founder of Om Edibles, to create Whoopi & Maya. Elisabeth says they are currently in about 270 dispensaries in California and experiencing a positive response to their products.
Currently, the line has four cannabis-infused products: Soak, Savor, Rub, and Relax. Soak is an epsom bath salt meant to decrease aches and pains. Elisabeth says the bath salts are among their most popular products, as they also help with anxiety, depression, and sleep. "Cannabis is wonderful for PMS support because it can be a mood elevator," Elizabeth explains. "It can really take the edge off when someone's feeling irritable and can be very supportive for emotional ups and downs." As for the rest of their line, Savor is a raw cacao spread that will improve your mood and help with inflammation and cramping. Rub is a body balm meant to relax cramping and relieve back pain. And Relax is a tincture that promises to reduce cramping and improve your mood. Before the US criminalized cannabis in 1937, tinctures were among the most popular ways to ingest the drug. Today, they remain an effective, inexpensive, and smoke-free way to use marijuana.
"The benefit of inhalation is that you'll have a more instant effect."
But what about old-school smoking? It still comes into play for many women. For eight years, Danielle Geen has worked at Harborside, a leading medical marijuana dispensary in Oakland, CA. Geen has used cannabis to treat PMS, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis. She has found relief using a mix of tinctures, topicals, and suppositories, as well as inhalation and edibles. "The benefit of inhalation is that you'll have a more instant effect," Geen explains. She's also found that while products with CBD will reduce inflammation and provide comfort similar to a heating pad, THC will more directly combat acute pain. As for edibles, she likes that the effects can last for six to eight hours, depending on your metabolism.
Weil has also turned to inhalation for her stubborn symptoms. "Topicals are great for aches and pains, but unfortunately do nothing for my severe cramps," she explains. She has tried the Foria suppositories, but found that her cramps were too severe. Because she's a holistic nutritionist, Weil is wary of the carcinogens produced by smoking. "I am always looking for the healthiest ways to incorporate natural solutions," she admits. She recommends using a vaporizer with high purity standards for "the fastest and easiest way to ease cramping." In addition, for severe pain, Weil suggests seeking out strains that have been developed especially for cancer patients.
Why You Should Consider Cannabis for PMS
The media frenzy that dubbed Foria Relief a "weed tampon" was inaccurate. It's not a tampon, and it won't get you high like the weed you may be used to. But overall, Gerson believes the exposure was positive. "It piqued interest," he says, which is the first step to acceptance of marijuana as a medicine. "It's not that cannabis is going to take the place of other drugs, but let's accept it and do more research on the many benefits that it has and put it out there as a viable alternative."
Geen has also found luck with the suppositories and has this advice for any women considering cannabis as solution for PMS: "Start with the tinctures. It has high CBD so it's nonpsychoactive." If you feel comfortable with the tinctures, topicals, or the suppositories but need stronger or longer-lasting effects, she recommends adding in inhalation or edibles.
While some critics worry about dependence, Dr. Berman says that's true of any drug we take. She believes cannabis is "probably safer for people who have severe disabling cramps and have to take narcotic pain medication." She would tell those patients to consider products like Foria for their cramps in lieu of stronger mainstream medications. "Taking those products orally puts you at risk. They're habit forming, while this is not." If you are considering trying cannabis for PMS, be sure to obtain it from a regulated medical dispensary. "If you get it any old place, you're not sure from batch to batch how it's handled," Dr. Berman cautions. Check to make sure your dispensary has a permit.
Cannabis really could be the miracle drug women need once a month. "It has helped to reduce overall inflammation, fatigue, midmonth pain associated with ovulation, and endometriosis, as well as period cramping," Weil shares. "It has also provided focus to varying energy associated with monthly ups and downs." What more could you ask for?
Horrible Cramps? Marijuana Might Just Be the Answer
Women often rely on heating pads, painkillers, and their go-to chocolate bar to deal with PMS each month. And then there's Midol. Since the 1930s, the over-the-counter acetaminophen-based drug has been marketed to women for their "periodic pain." Beyond that, there haven't been many new mainstream medical options available to alleviate stubborn menstrual discomfort. Searching for remedies, women have turned to various holistic and alternative medicine treatments like chasteberry, Mayan abdominal massage, or acupuncture.
Perhaps we just need to look back to ancient times for another viable remedy: cannabis. Medical marijuana is now legal in 28 states and Washington DC, and cannabis is on the rise as an innovative solution for managing PMS. That's good news for women dealing with cramps, headaches, or irritability.
Relief For Common Symptoms
While marijuana has been a medicinal remedy for millennia, there is a lack of modern research on it. That's because it is difficult to acquire research grants from the National Institute of Health while pot is still illegal at the federal level. But a few promising studies do exist, and reviews of existing literature have concluded that cannabis effectively treats otherwise treatment-resistant conditions, including pain management. Despite the lack of research, many "green doctors" consider PMS a qualifying condition for a marijuana prescription to provide relief from common PMS symptoms.
"Cannabis definitely plays a role in pain reduction," says Dr. Jennifer Berman, a cohost on The Doctors who specializes in women's sexual health. She notes that cannabis has been effective for people with chronic pain and those with inflammatory autoimmune conditions; in light of this, it should also work for menstrual cramps. Whether eaten, smoked, or inserted vaginally, Dr. Berman says cannabis may "help modulate and minimize muscle spasm and pain" by relaxing the muscles in the uterus and increasing blood flow.
"If you don't get relief from Ibuprofen, [marijuana] would be something I would recommend you try."
The standard of care for severe menstrual cramps is Ibuprofen, according to Dr. Berman. If that doesn't work, mainstream medicine will prescribe narcotic pain medication. Both options come with downsides. "Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, like Motrin or Advil, can have side effects if taken consistently over the course of 24 hours," she explains. "It could be hard on your stomach. They may interact with other medications. They can cause bleeding." In addition, narcotics use can become habit. While she notes there isn't hard data to back it up, her patients have found success in using cannabis products to relieve PMS. "If you don't get relief from Ibuprofen, this would be something I would recommend you try."
Alle Weil is one of many women who have felt the positive impact of cannabis. Weil is a certified holistic health counselor who has seen results both professionally and personally. Weil often works with women to solve menstrual-related issues when mainstream medicine doesn't work. "Based on various accounts, positive feedback, research, and my own personal experience, cannabis is a growing resolution for a number of inflammatory issues associated with a woman's cycle," Weil said.
What to Look For
If you're going to explore the world of medical marijuana for PMS, you'll have to learn a few things. First, you'll want to understand your state laws and get a medical marijuana prescription. Before visiting a dispensary, you'll also need to know the difference between cannabinoids THC and CBD, the chemical compounds found in cannabis. Dispensaries very often categorize their products by the amount of THC and CBD they contain. Here's a crash course on the two:
- THC: Stands for tetrahydrocannabinol. It simulates your CB1 receptor, the part of your central nervous system that processes appetite, pain-sensation, mood, and memory. THC has psychoactive properties. You tend to feel more relaxed, and it also helps with pain. Negative side effects of THC include anxiety (that oft-described paranoid feeling) and sedation.
- CBD: Stands for cannabidiol. It reduces THC's ability to stimulate the CB1 receptors, reducing some side effects of THC, including anxiety, increased appetite, and the feeling of being "high." It also has anti-inflammatory properties of its own.
Studies suggest there is a benefit from combining THC and CBD, because it allows you get more results with fewer side effects. Depending on what your symptoms are and what side effects you're comfortable with, the levels of CBD are often the determining factor. Put simply, choose more CBD if you don't want to feel high. In addition, there are other strains of marijuana, like THCV. Both THCV and CBD have been shown to reduce appetite. These "skinny cannabinoids" might be ideal for PMS, since "the munchies" often increase feelings of bloatedness.
The Various Products and Methods
When it comes to actual treatment, there is no shortage of specific period products. Foria Relief recently gained notoriety as the "weed tampon." A vaginal suppository you can use along with a tampon, it releases pain-decreasing cannabis in your uterus, helping to relieve cramps. The suppository can also be inserted rectally to relieve pain in the back and hip areas. Foria Relief contains both THC and CBD and does not cause psychoactive effects in most women, in part because it is inserted vaginally. While Foria is developing a study to further understand the benefits of vaginal delivery, the current understanding is that the suppository prevents the liver from processing THC, allowing the medicine to be absorbed locally without getting you high. In addition to reducing the effects of being high, CBD relaxes muscles and acts as an antianxiety and anti-inflammatory agent, according to the company.
Mathew Gerson founded Foria, which started off making a line of cannabis-infused female pleasure products. Gerson told us why it's important that women don't get high from the Foria cannabis suppository: "The number of women who could benefit from what it [cannabis] has to offer with respect to menstrual cramps is a much larger number if they didn't have to deal with being stoned." He says the suppository delivery method still allows for a high cannabis potency, but since it won't get you high, you can go about your day - going to work, taking care of your family, or enjoying time with friends. Currently, Foria is available only online to California residents with a valid physician's recommendation letter or at dispensaries in Colorado and California.
Since it doesn't get you high or put you into a more relaxed state, Dr. Berman says Foria might not be able to treat other symptoms of PMS, like irritability, but sees little downside to the product. "The only limitations are the regulatory restrictions state to state, that it takes 20 minutes to work, and you have to lay down." She also says the potential for abuse is always a concern when you're dealing with any drug.
Whoopi Goldberg has also launched a new line of cannabis products designed to give you relief from menstrual pain. Goldberg teamed up with Maya Elisabeth, the founder of Om Edibles, to create Whoopi & Maya. Elisabeth says they are currently in about 270 dispensaries in California and experiencing a positive response to their products.
Currently, the line has four cannabis-infused products: Soak, Savor, Rub, and Relax. Soak is an epsom bath salt meant to decrease aches and pains. Elisabeth says the bath salts are among their most popular products, as they also help with anxiety, depression, and sleep. "Cannabis is wonderful for PMS support because it can be a mood elevator," Elizabeth explains. "It can really take the edge off when someone's feeling irritable and can be very supportive for emotional ups and downs." As for the rest of their line, Savor is a raw cacao spread that will improve your mood and help with inflammation and cramping. Rub is a body balm meant to relax cramping and relieve back pain. And Relax is a tincture that promises to reduce cramping and improve your mood. Before the US criminalized cannabis in 1937, tinctures were among the most popular ways to ingest the drug. Today, they remain an effective, inexpensive, and smoke-free way to use marijuana.
"The benefit of inhalation is that you'll have a more instant effect."
But what about old-school smoking? It still comes into play for many women. For eight years, Danielle Geen has worked at Harborside, a leading medical marijuana dispensary in Oakland, CA. Geen has used cannabis to treat PMS, ovarian cysts, and endometriosis. She has found relief using a mix of tinctures, topicals, and suppositories, as well as inhalation and edibles. "The benefit of inhalation is that you'll have a more instant effect," Geen explains. She's also found that while products with CBD will reduce inflammation and provide comfort similar to a heating pad, THC will more directly combat acute pain. As for edibles, she likes that the effects can last for six to eight hours, depending on your metabolism.
Weil has also turned to inhalation for her stubborn symptoms. "Topicals are great for aches and pains, but unfortunately do nothing for my severe cramps," she explains. She has tried the Foria suppositories, but found that her cramps were too severe. Because she's a holistic nutritionist, Weil is wary of the carcinogens produced by smoking. "I am always looking for the healthiest ways to incorporate natural solutions," she admits. She recommends using a vaporizer with high purity standards for "the fastest and easiest way to ease cramping." In addition, for severe pain, Weil suggests seeking out strains that have been developed especially for cancer patients.
Why You Should Consider Cannabis for PMS
The media frenzy that dubbed Foria Relief a "weed tampon" was inaccurate. It's not a tampon, and it won't get you high like the weed you may be used to. But overall, Gerson believes the exposure was positive. "It piqued interest," he says, which is the first step to acceptance of marijuana as a medicine. "It's not that cannabis is going to take the place of other drugs, but let's accept it and do more research on the many benefits that it has and put it out there as a viable alternative."
Geen has also found luck with the suppositories and has this advice for any women considering cannabis as solution for PMS: "Start with the tinctures. It has high CBD so it's nonpsychoactive." If you feel comfortable with the tinctures, topicals, or the suppositories but need stronger or longer-lasting effects, she recommends adding in inhalation or edibles.
While some critics worry about dependence, Dr. Berman says that's true of any drug we take. She believes cannabis is "probably safer for people who have severe disabling cramps and have to take narcotic pain medication." She would tell those patients to consider products like Foria for their cramps in lieu of stronger mainstream medications. "Taking those products orally puts you at risk. They're habit forming, while this is not." If you are considering trying cannabis for PMS, be sure to obtain it from a regulated medical dispensary. "If you get it any old place, you're not sure from batch to batch how it's handled," Dr. Berman cautions. Check to make sure your dispensary has a permit.
Cannabis really could be the miracle drug women need once a month. "It has helped to reduce overall inflammation, fatigue, midmonth pain associated with ovulation, and endometriosis, as well as period cramping," Weil shares. "It has also provided focus to varying energy associated with monthly ups and downs." What more could you ask for?
Prince Harry Reunites With Old Friends at a Special Ceremony in London
Following his trip to Epping Forest, Prince Harry attended a ceremony to celebrate the bicentenary of relations between the UK and Nepal at the Embassy of Nepal in London on Monday. The young royal was presented with a photograph from one of his previous visits to the country and caught up with old friends Hari Budha Magar and Vinod Budhathoki, who served alongside him in Afghanistan. Prince William and Kate Middleton were not in attendance, but they recently returned from their two-day trip to Paris over the weekend.
In March 2016, Harry became the first British royal to visit Nepal since the monarchy was eliminated back in 2008. During his five-day tour of the country, he met with the prime minister and president, visited with the survivors of the tragic earthquake in Bhaktapur, and was dubbed "village head man" during a visit to the town of Leorani.
These 2 Sassy Sisters Found a New Friend to Join Their Posse - a Realtor
When a realtor in London went on a routine visit to value a client's property, he walked away adding an additional position to his résumé: internet sensation. Dan Stevenson was valuing the property of Lorna Hayward when he developed an adorable bond with her two daughters, 3-year-old Elsie and 19-month-old Marnie. The girls quickly took a liking to Dan, who was a complete stranger before walking into their London flat. I mean, can we blame them? Dan's a total babe.
In a now-viral post to the Motherload Facebook page, Lorna explained every hilarious detail of the trio's budding friendship, and it's sure to make you LOL. Despite Lorna's warnings that coming to their home at 5 p.m. was "risky," the 26-year-old estate agent arrived only to be assaulted with a barrage of questions from the young girls.
Marnie and Elsie asked Dan to cuddle, hold their hands, watch Peppa Pig, and have a sleepover with them. Oh, and they also asked if he likes cheese, apparently. The grand finale to this hysterical assortment of questions? "Elsie walking out of the toilet announcing she had just done 'her biggest poo yet - it was a bit spiky though, so please can you wipe my bum,'" Lorna wrote in her Facebook post.
The mother-of-two snapped a photo of her daughters and Dan to capture the hilariously sweet moment, but she couldn't help but note her embarrassment as she signed off the post with, "Poor Dan. Poor, poor Dan. Gonna just pour myself a pint of wine."
Regardless, Dan seems to have handled the whole situation like a total champ, and it looks like this isn't his first rodeo with kiddos like Marnie and Elsie. The agent told the Daily Mail how he lived with his younger cousins when he first moved to London, so he automatically felt comfortable around Lorna's girls. "I walked in and they were having their dinner, I just started talking to them about what they were having and the next thing they were asking me to pick them up," he said. "They are just hilarious and I just went with it."
Our Baby Was Killed at Day Care - and It Wasn't an "Accident"
His death could have been prevented. YourTango shares the story of Shepard Dodd's life via his father, Derek.
Shepard was an unnaturally happy and healthy 11-week-old baby boy. He would smile until something needed to be corrected. He would cry, you would fix it, then he would smile again. He was a special baby to my wife and I after years of infertility, and he had a life ahead with limitless possibilities.
Which is why on April 6, 2015, our world changed forever.
We chose an in-home day-care provider in Oklahoma (where we reside) to watch Shepherd. The woman was highly recommended by a friend and she would only watch teacher's kids. This meant she would be closed during the Summers and school breaks, which was great for us because I'm a teacher.
On April 6, I left for work early and was able to kiss Shepard and Ali goodbye. I will never forget him looking over for me and smiling. Shepard had only been going to the in-home day care for five days when Ali took him on that Monday. He had his first runny nose that weekend and had woken up that morning with congestion, but he was in good spirits, so we weren't overly worried.
Ali messaged the day-care provider about using a rock'n'play for sleeping so that Shepard could be on an incline instead of having to lie on his back. Originally she agreed, but when Ali arrived and saw what it was, she couldn't let him sleep in it.
In fact, this childcare giver confided that she had been cited by the Department of Human Services (DHS) 10 days earlier for allowing another infant to fall asleep in a swing, and that they told her how dangerous both car seats and swings were for babies to sleep in.
On that Monday, as Ali was unpacking her diaper bag, she realized that she had forgotten the bottles so she ran back home. She was very concerned about Shepard getting sick if she were to lay him down flat for his naps. While she was home, she grabbed her Ergo 360 carrier that our childcare giver had used before so she wouldn't have to put him down if she didn't want to.
Ali also requested a doctor's note for the caregiver so she would also have the option to use the rock'n'play. When Ali returned, the childcare giver reported that she had come up with a plan: she would sit the rock'n'play in front of the couch so Shepard could nap in it, so if DHS stopped by to "check on her," she could just pick him up and answer the door with him.
This ensured she wouldn't get in trouble. Ali, feeling confident the attention Shepard would be getting would be more than sufficient, left to go to her morning meetings and notified our childcare giver that our doctor was faxing her the note for the rock'n'play at 9:45 a.m.
At 12:51 p.m., the daycare provider called Ali and told her she needed to come quickly. The childcare giver reported that Shepard wasn't breathing. She had called 911, and a police officer and EMTs had responded.
Ali asked her to give the phone to an EMT, and after speaking with him she knew the situation wasn't good. Ali called me. In the middle of teaching a class I had to answer the phone to Ali saying I had to go, that Shepard wasn't breathing.
I ran to the truck and drove way too fast to the day-care provider's home. When I arrived, they were wheeling my son out of the house on a stretcher. They were still working on him, but told me that they had yet to get his heart going or him breathing on his own.
As I rode in the van in front of the ambulance, I had to prepare myself for life without my son and the grief that would follow. When we arrived at the hospital, as they wheeled him past me into the ER, I gave him a kiss on the forehead.
He was cold.
As they were working on our son, the attending physician came over and told us that they would try another push of epinephrine and two more rounds of CPR, and then they would have to call it.
Surrounded by doctors and nurses with looks of pity, and police officers, detectives, and DHS officials waiting to interview us, we had to say goodbye to our son, intubated on a stretcher.
Unbeknownst to us, our childcare provider had been educated by DHS for the swing violation where she was specifically counseled about safe sleep practices. The next day, DHS returned due to the serious violation, and she was reminded again of the dangers of putting a child in a swing.
It's documented in her public file that she specifically inquired about infants napping in their car seats. DHS told her that sleeping in the car seat was a dangerous practice and would increase the chances of SIDS. She was told this just 10 days before she chose to put our child in an unbuckled car seat on the floor, swaddled, where he wiggled down until he lost his airway and suffocated to death.
He was unable to alert anyone to the terrible trouble he was in because the door was closed and there was no monitor to catch his struggle. In addition, our childcare provider was distracted by her friend who had stopped by around lunchtime so she could drop off her 2-year-old while she went and had lunch with other moms.
TWO HOURS passed before she finally checked on Shepard and found him completely blue.
The childcare provider has never been charged with any crime. Shepard's case is still open and we're hopeful as a family that justice will find her in this world or the next.
This wasn't an accident.
She knew that a car seat wasn't safe for sleep and that two hours is much too long to leave an infant behind a closed door.
Shepard's death doesn't have to be in vain. Unsafe sleep surfaces are a REAL danger. We're looking to focus the attention to safe sleep standards so they can protect Oklahoma's children from negligent decisions.
Follow Ali & Derek's nonprofit (in honor of their son Shepard) for more updates.
More good reads from YourTango:
My Son Died, but I Have No Regrets About His Free-Range Childhood
After My Son Died From a Drug OD, I Nearly Died From Depression
Lay OFF Jackie Siegel: There's No "Right" Way to Mourn a Dead Child
Who Voiced the Original Belle in Beauty and the Beast?
Disney's Beauty and the Beast is a tale as old as time, and it's reaching a whole new generation of audiences with its live-action adaptation. While we couldn't wait to see Dan Stevens in beast form, we were most looking forward to seeing Emma Watson take on the iconic role of Belle. Even though she does the character justice, she certainly had some big shoes to fill. The original character was a huge inspiration for young girls - and continues to be more than 25 years later.
So, who was the original Belle? That would be Paige O'Hara (pictured below). The self-proclaimed Disney enthusiast auditioned for the role when she was 30-years-old. After only the second audition, she just knew it was her part. Not only did she lend her voice for the character, but she also played a part in Belle's physical appearance as the animators mimicked her real-life expressions.
Following the release of the original animated film, O'Hara reprised her role in two direct-to-video follow-ups, Beauty and the Beast: The Enchanted Christmas and Belle's Magical World. Even though she has since put her Belle days behind her, she certainly approves of Watson's iteration of the character. POPSUGAR had the chance to talk with O'Hara last year and she has nothing but kind words to say about her successor, adding that she thinks she was the "perfect casting."
Experts Reveal the 1 Fruit You Shouldn't Be Using in DIY Beauty Treatments
As great aficionados of both fresh produce and DIY spa treatments, we find there are few better ways to spend a Sunday afternoon than whipping up a natural beauty remedy. We've tried homemade coconut-oil-infused hair masks and body scrubs, brightened our smiles and our fingernails with baking soda, and even washed our faces with honey. However, there's one ingredient we won't be reaching for anytime soon, and it's the humble lemon.
Many women turn to the juice of this citrus fruit to lighten dark spots, dark strands, and chemically exfoliate, but that is ill advised. Lemon juice has an extremely low pH (meaning it's quite acidic), so it is typically more damaging than beneficial to the area you're trying to treat.
Joanna Vargas, celebrity facialist and founder of Joanna Vargas Salon and Skin Care Collection, admits that it can even out pigment to some degree, but she doesn't recommend using it as a cleanser or toner. "Used too frequently, you're running the risk of making your skin red because it's very acidic," she said. Not only can it be irritating to your complexion, it could cause an issue called phytophotodermatitis.
Lemons contain photosensitizing compounds that react when exposed to sunlight, making skin exceptionally sensitive to UV. This leads to hyperpigmentation - the very issue you might have been trying to treat! - or even oozing blisters and chemical burns, which would take months to heal.
In lieu of DIYing a brightening treatment and risking harm to your complexion, try something carefully developed for skin. Look for formulas that contain citric or ascorbic acid, also known as vitamin C. We like Ole Henriksen Truth Serum ($72), a sweetly citrusy fragranced product that leaves skin radiant and hydrated.
We have more lemon-based bad news, unfortunately. If you've been mixing up your own hair-lightening spray with water and lemon juice, cut it out. According to Dr. Elizabeth Tanzi, founder and director of Capital Laser & Skin Care and assistant clinical professor of the Department of Dermatology at the George Washington University Medical Center, the acidic nature of lemon juice can weaken your hair.
"It's better to use products that are created specifically for hair lightening," Dr. Tanzi insisted. "Leave it to the professionals!" If you already have light hair, try using a treatment like John Frieda Sheer Blonde Go Blonder Lightening Shampoo ($10), which will gently lift and brighten your blonde. (If you have darker strands, just book a salon appointment after looking at our guide to blond hair for inspiration. It's better to be safe than sorry!)
But feel free to keep adding lemon juice to your morning mug of hot water. Experts agree that this is a seriously beneficial way to use the fruit in your daily routine.
Tack This 5-Minute Core Blaster Onto the End of Your Cardio Workout
After a cardio workout, target the core with this five-move, five-minute ab workout. It involves bodyweight moves that will engage the entire core, revealing a strong, toned midsection. You'll definitely be feeling this tomorrow!
Tack This 5-Minute Core Blaster Onto the End of Your Cardio Workout
After a cardio workout, target the core with this five-move, five-minute ab workout. It involves bodyweight moves that will engage the entire core, revealing a strong, toned midsection. You'll definitely be feeling this tomorrow!
We Have to Ask: Is Ed Sheeran Irish or English?
Ed Sheeran is one of the biggest names in music right now, and we find ourselves wanting to know more and more about him. While he's always poured his heart into his music, his recent album, Divide, has given us an even bigger glimpse of his personal life. Not only does he gush about his romance with girlfriend Cherry Seaborn in a few of the tracks, but he also goes into great detail about his family upbringing. While Ed is well-known for being an English singer, tracks like "Galway Girl" have us wondering: is he actually Irish?
Well, he's actually both. Though he was was born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, and raised in Framlingham, Suffolk - which he talks about in his single "Castle on the Hill" - his paternal grandparents are Irish. Their love story was actually the inspiration behind his Irish folk tune, "Nancy Mulligan," which recounts how his grandfather, William, fell for his grandmother, Anne, despite their Catholic-Protestant religious differences.
We Have to Ask: Is Ed Sheeran Irish or English?
Ed Sheeran is one of the biggest names in music right now, and we find ourselves wanting to know more and more about him. While he's always poured his heart into his music, his recent album, Divide, has given us an even bigger glimpse of his personal life. Not only does he gush about his romance with girlfriend Cherry Seaborn in a few of the tracks, but he also goes into great detail about his family upbringing. While Ed is well-known for being an English singer, tracks like "Galway Girl" have us wondering: is he actually Irish?
Well, he's actually both. Though he was was born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, and raised in Framlingham, Suffolk - which he talks about in his single "Castle on the Hill" - his paternal grandparents are Irish. Their love story was actually the inspiration behind his Irish folk tune, "Nancy Mulligan," which recounts how his grandfather, William, fell for his grandmother, Anne, despite their Catholic-Protestant religious differences.
The Best Frozen Items From Costco
Here's looking at you, Costco freezer section. Yes, the items come in bulk, but since they're frozen, they'll last for practically forever. These are our favorites and go-to items, from staples like smoothie packets and ground beef to indulgences like mochi ice cream and frozen burritos. Go ahead and be that savvy, smart Costco grocery shopper we know you are.
Never Forget Chicken Cook Times Again With This Handy Chart
If every time you start cooking chicken you're unsure of how long you should cook it, you're not alone. It's a tricky thing to gauge, especially because chicken is not something you want slightly pink like a medium-rare steak. Fully cooked chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and the juices will run clear. Even if you don't have a thermometer, there are standard cook times to memorize so you won't have to play a guessing game every time and risk eating undercooked meat. Refer to this handy list whether you're cooking boneless chicken breasts, bone-in chicken breasts and legs, or a whole roast chicken. You'll never end up with undercooked or totally dry, overcooked chicken again.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: 450°F for 20 minutes
- Bone-in, skin-on chicken breasts: 400°F for 45 minutes
- Whole roast chicken: 425°F for 1 hour to 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Chicken thighs: 425°F for 20-25 minutes
That Tiny Elvis Impersonator in Honeymoon in Vegas Is Actually Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars is a massive superstar who has proven time and time again that he can really do anything. Have an epic Carpool Karaoke session? Sure. Own the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway? No prob. Dance like nobody's watching? Always. While we're familiar with his legendary status now, it turns out that Bruno has always been showing off his talents. You've probably seen 1992's Honeymoon in Vegas starring Nicolas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker (if you haven't, please rush home and do so now). The film, which has become somewhat of a classic over the years, also features a very tiny Bruno Mars. In the scene where Betsy (Sarah Jessica) meets Tommy (James Caan) in the hotel restaurant for dinner and drinks, there is a little boy impersonating Elvis Presley on stage. The camera only offers a quick close-up of the boy, but it's very clear that it's a 6-year-old Bruno. While he's definitely grown up, not much has changed in terms of his hip thrusts and hairstyle.
Image Source: Getty / Kevin WinterImage Source: Warner Bros.
Bates Motel: We're Obsessed With Rihanna as Psycho's Marion Crane
Bates Motel is finally taking us all up in the world of Psycho, and we could not be more excited. The final season has been full of twists, turns, and near-death experiences (at least, in Norman's head). This week, though, we'll get an extra dose of madness and excitement when Rihanna guest stars as the iconic Marion Crane, who famously gets murdered by Norman Bates in the first act of Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho. Check out all the photos of the of the pop star in character below!
That Tiny Elvis Impersonator in Honeymoon in Vegas Is Actually Bruno Mars
Bruno Mars is a massive superstar who has proven time and time again that he can really do anything. Have an epic Carpool Karaoke session? Sure. Own the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway? No prob. Dance like nobody's watching? Always. While we're familiar with his legendary status now, it turns out that Bruno has always been showing off his talents. You've probably seen 1992's Honeymoon in Vegas starring Nicolas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker (if you haven't, please rush home and do so now). The film, which has become somewhat of a classic over the years, also features a very tiny Bruno Mars. In the scene where Betsy (Sarah Jessica) meets Tommy (James Caan) in the hotel restaurant for dinner and drinks, there is a little boy impersonating Elvis Presley on stage. The camera only offers a quick close-up of the boy, but it's very clear that it's a 6-year-old Bruno. While he's definitely grown up, not much has changed in terms of his hip thrusts and hairstyle.
Image Source: Getty / Kevin WinterImage Source: Warner Bros.
The Reason School Lunches Were Confiscated From Children Has Parents Infuriated
Even though these parents took the time to pack their children lunches and snacks for school, their kids were left without food.
Parents in Durham, Ontario, are sharing stories of how teachers are taking away snacks and lunches from children that they deem to be unhealthy. According to The Star, the foods being discouraged vary depending on classroom and school but include "Goldfish crackers, Bear Paws cookies, granola bars, string cheese, Jello, juice boxes, pudding cups, gummy fruit snacks, raisins, Animal Crackers, chocolate milk and Sun Chips."
However, Durham District School Board Superintendent Luigia Ayotte said in a statement that there is no official list of banned foods. "We understand there may have been some issues with regard to certain foods students bring for snacks and lunches, but food preferences and choice remain with students and parents unless they pose an adverse allergic danger to other students," she said.
Yet 30 local parents have shared their troubling stories. While many understand the allergy risk of certain foods, they don't believe their child should be singled out for the food choices that are in their lunchboxes or backpacks that don't pose any allergy threat.
Last year, Elaina Daoust sent her picky eater to school with a small piece of banana bread for his morning snack. However, the junior kindergartner was told that he couldn't eat it because it contained chocolate chips. "He came home with a chart (listing healthy snack ideas) and told me he and the teacher talked about it and healthy choices. She also sent a note to me. I was really, really, really mad for several reasons," Daoust told The Star. This mom said she purposefully picked that snack because teachers discouraged homemade treats, it was labeled nut-free, and she assumed it was safe for school.
Avani Chaudhary also experienced this issue when she sent her daughter and son to school with Goldfish crackers and chocolate chip granola bars. Her second grader was told that these aren't "welcome snacks," while her kindergartner didn't have any issues. "It's basically the teacher's opinion," Avani said. "Is a muffin healthier than a granola bar? Maybe, maybe not. It depends what is in them. Is the teacher qualified to make these decisions? It should be up to the parents."
For one little girl, her lunch was withheld and sent home because it contained pizza outside of the designated pizza days or chocolate chip granola bars that were viewed as unhealthy. "I felt it was more unhealthy for a child not to eat at all, than to eat a granola bar with chocolate," said the child's mother, Janae Brangman.
This post was originally published on Oct. 3, 2016.
Natalie Portman Bared Her Belly in This Music Video "Just Days" Before Giving Birth
Natalie Portman welcomed her second child, a baby girl named Amalia, with husband Benjamin Millepied on Feb. 22, but before then, she squeezed in a special appearance on James Blake's new video for "My Willing Heart." In the video, which was reportedly shot "just days" before Natalie gave birth, the Jackie actress flaunts her baby bump while floating around in a pool and sitting on a bed in lingerie. Natalie also bared her baby bump for Vanity Fair's Hollywood Issue back in January.
Natalie Portman Bared Her Belly in This Music Video "Just Days" Before Giving Birth
Natalie Portman welcomed her second child, a baby girl named Amalia, with husband Benjamin Millepied on Feb. 22, but before then, she squeezed in a special appearance on James Blake's new video for "My Willing Heart." In the video, which was reportedly shot "just days" before Natalie gave birth, the Jackie actress flaunts her baby bump while floating around in a pool and sitting on a bed in lingerie. Natalie also bared her baby bump for Vanity Fair's Hollywood Issue back in January.
10 Fiery Shades of Red to Dye Your Hair For Summer 2017
If you've been toying with the idea of casting your hair a new shade of ruby, you're exactly where you need to be. For the DL on all things red, we hit up several celebrity colorists to help you determine your perfect shade. From sun-kissed apricot to rich bordeaux, we've got the scoop on the trendiest reds for Spring and Summer, how to make it work for your strands, and advice on choosing the right red for your skin tone. Keep reading! Jessica Rabbit, here you become.
21 Secrets From Giada De Laurentiis That'll Upgrade Your Cooking Game
One of the best ways to get schooled in Italian cooking (or cooking in general) is by watching Giada De Laurentiis. If you're a longtime fan, you've likely tried some of Giada's best recipes and picked up on some pro tips from the Rome-born guru (including the right way to prounce "spaghetti"). It's no surprise that the cookbook author and TV host has tricks up her sleeve to make pasta, waffles, and chicken parmesan even better. Keep reading for 20 secrets we've picked up on from Giada herself, and then check out even more cooking tips that'll upgrade your skillset.
Related:
Admirably Petty Grandma Pastes Leonardo DiCaprio's Face Onto Photos of Late Husband
What would you do if your husband of many years (whom you weren't particularly fond of) passed away and you were left with a bunch of old photos of the two of you together? If your answer is "cut out photos of Leonardo DiCaprio and paste them all over my late husband's face," then we have someone you should meet. On Sunday, Reddit user Greentechbuilder posted the above photo on Reddit, writing, "My friends Grandma's house. She put a magazine cut out of Leonardo DiCaprio over her late (not so nice) husband's face. The 80+ year old's version of photoshop." Savage? Maybe, but in our humble opinion, this kind of pettiness should be admired. At the moment, Leo is dating Victoria's Secret model Nina Agdal, but here's hoping he gives this hilarious, artistic grandma a call.
12 Breakfast Smoothie Bowl Recipes That Are Almost Too Pretty to Eat
Smoothies are a classic go-to breakfast option, given their versatility and quick turnaround time, but when you put them into a bowl and add a few aesthetically designed rows of fruit, you're met with a total game changer - you now have a work of art. And who doesn't like starting the day with something as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate?
Articles
