Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
samedi 25 mars 2017
Jennifer Aniston's Already Wearing the Shoe of the Summer
In the Summer of 2016, Jennifer Aniston kept her Burberry wedges on repeat. She bought them in two neutral colorways, a promising move to make when you know you've found a style that's comfortable and versatile.
The actress, who always maintains effortless street style, stepped out in West Hollywood, CA, in a pair of boyfriend jeans, a fitted military jacket, and Soludos leather sandals with an espadrille platform. While these shoes are a few inches lower than her Burberry pairs, they're certainly more suitable for running errands on a relaxing afternoon.
Scroll to take a look, then shop Jen's pair along with similar options, before she scoops up every colorway.
Kate Middleton and Prince William Have Finally Decided on a London School For George
Prince William and Kate Middleton have finally decided on a school for Prince George. The 3-year-old royal will be attending Thomas's Battersea School in September, Kensington Palace confirmed on Friday. "Their Royal Highnesses are delighted to have found a school where they are confident George will have a happy and successful start to his education," the statement read. The school is about a 30-minute drive from Will and Kate's home in Kensington Palace, and according to its website, it focuses on "enjoyment, learning and achievement." George will continue attending his Montessori nursery school until his Thomas's School debut in the Fall, while Princess Charlotte is expected to enroll in a nursery school in London as well.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have announced that Prince George will attend Thomas's Battersea School in London from September 2017.
- Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 24, 2017
How to Get Nail Polish Off Just About Anything
Into every life, a little nail polish must fall. But just because you accidentally lacquered your skirt, desk, or couch, that doesn't mean the stuff has to stay there. The faster you act, the better off you'll be, and most materials respond well to solvents you already have lying around the house. See our easy polish stain fixes now.
Removing Polish From Wood
First rule: don't use nail polish remover on wood. It actually ruins finishes and leaves new, maybe even worse looking, stains. Don't panic, though, because there's actually a really easy way to fix the polish-on-wood problem. Just spritz your polish puddle down with plenty of hair spray (we use Aqua Net), let it sit for about 20 seconds, and then wipe it off. You might need to repeat the process a few times, but it's far, far preferable to having splotchy furniture.
Removing Polish From Cloth
Probably one of the most common polish problems, this is also a tricky one. Nail polish remover can interact with some dyes and fabrics (it'll actually melt acetate), so perform a spot test before you use it. If you use remover on your fabric, make sure to launder it directly afterward. And if remover isn't an option, you can always try hair spray. Dry cleaning solvent can also usually remove polish, so if you can't get it out at home, don't be afraid to run it down to your cleaners.
Removing Polish From Hair
If you were in a rush and ended up both ruining your nails and painting up your hair, the fix is pretty simple. If the polish is still wet, just grab some non-acetone polish remover and run it down the polished strands. If it's dry already, work some conditioner or oil gently through your hair until you can slide the polish bits out.
Removing Polish From Carpet
First of all, what color is your carpet? If it's light or white, using a non-acetone polish remover is probably your best bet. If it's dark and you're not sure about whether the dye might interact with it, try pouring on hair spray or rubbing alcohol and then blotting the polish up with a sponge or paper towels. Don't give up if the polish just seems to keep coming - you want to get every last bit out.
See What Too Faced's Magical "Unicorn Tears" Lipstick Looks Like on Different Skin Tones
Too Faced's iridescent lipstick came out months and months ago, but it seems that unicorn-beauty-lovers are just starting to fall in love. The magical Unicorn Tears shade ($22) boasts a holographic, bluish shimmer that is transcendent whether worn alone or layered on top of another shade. (Even better, pair it with Anastasia Beverly Hills's Moonchild Glow Kit on cheekbones for a mythical highlight.)
Though Halloween has long since passed, true #UnicornTribe members know that dedication to fantastical beauty is a year-round passion. Before you snag this gorgeous product, read on to see swatches and how it lights up different skin tones.
Kate Middleton and Prince William Have Finally Decided on a London School For George
Prince William and Kate Middleton have finally decided on a school for Prince George. The 3-year-old royal will be attending Thomas's Battersea School in September, Kensington Palace confirmed on Friday. "Their Royal Highnesses are delighted to have found a school where they are confident George will have a happy and successful start to his education," the statement read. The school is about a 30-minute drive from Will and Kate's home in Kensington Palace, and according to its website, it focuses on "enjoyment, learning and achievement." George will continue attending his Montessori nursery school until his Thomas's School debut in the Fall, while Princess Charlotte is expected to enroll in a nursery school in London as well.
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have announced that Prince George will attend Thomas's Battersea School in London from September 2017.
- Kensington Palace (@KensingtonRoyal) March 24, 2017
11 Brutal Reasons Your Husband's Ex-Wife HATES You
We're happy to present this article by Jenna Korf from one of our favorite sites, YourTango.
When you marry a man who already has children, dealing with his ex-wife can be a real challenge. One woman asked me: "Why does my husband's ex-wife hate me? I've never done anything to her."
This woman, like thousands of other stepmoms, feels utterly perplexed by the level of pettiness and outright hostility her husband's ex-wife hurls her way. What's behind all of that animosity? Here are the most common reasons your husband's ex-wife might not think too fondly of you:
1. She doesn't hate you, she hates what you represent.
The failure of her marriage, the breakup of her family, the woman her ex-husband became a better man for, the fear that she might have ruined her child's life by not being able to make her marriage work.
2. She's afraid her kids will love you more than they love her.
An irrational fear, as the chances of that happening are basically nil, but a common fear nonetheless.
3. She perceives you as overstepping boundaries.
This could include you showing up at a parent-teacher conference, forcing the kids to call you "mom" (yes, that does actually happen), disciplining the kids, calling the children "mine," posting pictures of the kids on your Facebook page, trying to co-parent with her by responding to messages sent to your husband, etc.
4. She resents you participating in events she considers "mom" territory.
These might include: taking your stepdaughter to buy her first bra or get her first haircut; participating in any sort of cosmetic experience (hair color/new hair style/mani-pedi day); talking to her about the birds and the bees; painting her nails or coloring/cutting her hair the way you like it or similar to yours (even if your stepchild is a teen and she requests this, it could still push Mom's buttons).
The same goes for any other life milestone you know Mom will likely want to be there for.
5. She has unresolved grief about her divorce.
For a long time, she could just ignore the painful feelings that accompany divorce. She didn't really have to face it. She may even have remarried herself, but she never actually grieved the loss of her marriage and family. Enter you, the stepmom, and suddenly it's all real and it's right in her face.
6. You act as a mirror for her.
When she looks at your strengths, all she sees are her weaknesses. If she never thought she was a good business woman and you own your own business, that insecurity is magnified. Same could be said for your intelligence, physical appearance, age, housekeeping skills, creativity, fashion sense, how much her kids enjoy being around you and your happy marriage.
7. She perceives you as doing all the parenting while dad is "let off the hook."
Stepmoms often help their husbands out with tending to the children, household duties, and life in general. That's what a marriage is all about: partnership. You shuttle the kids back and forth to school or help with homework, you schedule appointments, etc. Often this has to do with gender roles, but all Mom sees is that at her house she's doing all the work while at yours, you're taking care of the kids and Dad "does nothing but go to work."
8. Now that you've come along, Dad is asking for more parenting time.
With your support, your husband may now see that he should exercise his visitation more or that he's now able to provide more stability for his kids. In turn, he requests more parenting time and/or parental input. You'd think this is a good thing, but this change in dynamic can feel threatening and/or scary for Mom. Not everyone likes change. It's easy for her to pinpoint your presence as being responsible for this.
9. She doesn't know you.
When Mom sends her kids off to stay with their dad, and this woman she doesn't even know (a.k.a. you) has full access to them, it can feel like she's being a bad parent. She doesn't automatically trust you just because Dad does. But, at the same time, she doesn't necessarily want to meet you. It's a no-win situation for all involved.
10. She sees her ex-husband being a different (better) man with you.
It's painful to see the man you think treated you so poorly, treating another women like a princess. She might think he's being a fraud, or she might think "Why wasn't I worthy of being treated like that?" She's possibly still grieving the loss of her marriage even though he's moved on. It's nearly impossible for her to have good feelings towards you when she's still processing - or in denial about - the loss of her life partner and family.
11. You actually did something worthy of her negative feelings.
Are you consciously or subconsciously trying to make her look like a bad mom? Do you try to prove to your husband that you're a better wife than she was? Are you trying to make your stepkids love you more than they love her? Do you try to show her up in any way? Do you want the school faculty, PTA or your neighborhood moms to think you're a better caretaker than she is? Take a look at your behavior and your motivations. Have the courage to honestly reflect on how you might contribute to the high-conflict dynamic that exists between you.
Jenna Korf is a Certified Stepfamily Coach. You can find her at StepmomHelp.com.
More juicy reads from YourTango:
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?
Michelle Obama's Dress Will Tell You Exactly Where She's Going
When Michelle Obama's on business, she chooses designs that are tailored. You'll find her accessorizing with a structured leather bag and perhaps a strand of pearls. But when she's headed on vacation, Michelle lets loose. Forget the tidy hairstyle - she's rocking a wide headband and oversize shades. And when it comes to her dresses, they've all got a bit more movement, a bit more color, and a casual touch.
Whether they're made of linen or lace, or extend to the ground like some of her boho-style maxis, Michelle's vacation looks are bold enough to put a smile on your face. What might make you even more ecstatic, however, is shopping similar silhouettes ahead of your next getaway. Though you might not be jetting off to Honolulu on Air Force One with the Obamas, choosing a breezy outfit that's been FLOTUS-approved will always be on point. Scroll to get started.
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?
This Wedding Cake Combines Our Favorite Unicorn Desserts in 1 Magical Masterpiece
By now, we've basically lost track of all the glorious unicorn-themed desserts that have graced our social media feeds, from macarons and doughnuts to cake pops and chocolate bark. But why choose between them when you can combine all of these sweet treats into one larger-than-life edible masterpiece? Well, that's what one baker just did, and her creation is breaking the internet with its majesty.
Reshmi Bennett is the renowned genius behind the Unicorn Croquembouche Wedding Cake, a fantastical work of art comprised of more pastel goodies than we can even count. Whereas normal croquembouches are typically made of pastry balls assembled into a cone-like shape and drizzled with caramel, Reshmi's one-of-a-kind version is a lot more involved.
Layers of chocolate and vanilla sponges are frosted with buttercream and chocolate glaze to comprise the base of this towering creation. And then comes an impressive slew of toppings, including eclairs, doughnuts, macarons, piped buttercream flowers, chocolate pearls, candied popcorn, and OH MY GOSH, I do not have a pulse anymore. The croquembouche is topped with a cone to resemble a unicorn horn, of course. Does it get any more perfect than this? Seriously, if you find out, let me know.
Every treat on this epic dessert is made from scratch, which explains why it takes three long days to make (and why it costs $1,020!). Unfortunately, Reshmi works for a family-run online bakery in London called Anges de Sucre, which only delivers its goodies within the UK (*insert excessive weeping here*). It looks like I'll be having a destination wedding in London!
Read on to drool over this picturesque beauty, and you'll be convinced that a unicorn wedding is the only way to go.
You'll Go Crazy For Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars's Duet of "The A Team"
The world can be a very scary and uncertain place at times (take all of 2017, for example), but sometimes the stars perfectly align to bless us with a beautiful gift. Case in point: Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars's friendship. Before the two engaged in a hilarious and fake Twitter feud over the MTV VMA nominees in 2015, they were showing off their musical bond on stage. During one of Bruno's concerts in St. Louis in August 2013, he brought Ed on stage for a special duet of Ed's hit "The A Team." While Bruno stands back at first and only adds his guitar skills to the song, he then takes the mic to sing along with Ed. The crowd obviously goes wild, and after watching the video above, you will too. And if that isn't enough to satisfy your Ed and Bruno love, check out this amazing mashup of two of their hit songs.
You'll Go Crazy For Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars's Duet of "The A Team"
The world can be a very scary and uncertain place at times (take all of 2017, for example), but sometimes the stars perfectly align to bless us with a beautiful gift. Case in point: Ed Sheeran and Bruno Mars's friendship. Before the two engaged in a hilarious and fake Twitter feud over the MTV VMA nominees in 2015, they were showing off their musical bond on stage. During one of Bruno's concerts in St. Louis in August 2013, he brought Ed on stage for a special duet of Ed's hit "The A Team." While Bruno stands back at first and only adds his guitar skills to the song, he then takes the mic to sing along with Ed. The crowd obviously goes wild, and after watching the video above, you will too. And if that isn't enough to satisfy your Ed and Bruno love, check out this amazing mashup of two of their hit songs.
Exactly How to Wear Orange Eye Shadow So Your Eyes Are on Fire
Orange you glad you now know about this eye makeup trend? (Sorry, had to!) On a more serious note: we're seeing orange as the fiery new shade everyone will be wearing for Summer 2017. Warm eye colors started gaining traction last year with pink and red taking the lead, and peach following suit. Orange is the next color craze, and it's already a favorite look for YouTubers and beauty bloggers.
"Bright saturated colors were seen on the runway (pops of color at Marc Jacobs, Sportmax, Anna Sui), so it's no surprise that orange is hot right now!" GlamSquad Director of Makeup Artistry Kelli J. Bartlett told us via email. "The look is a unique blend of elegant and edgy. It's a perfect way to add an extra festive or flirty flair to an otherwise chic and sophisticated barely-there beauty look."
But don't overdo it, she warns. "It's important to let other features find balance by sticking to neutrals on the lips (nudes look great!) and adding a touch of the orange you used on your eyes to your cheeks to coordinate the look without appearing too dramatic," Bartlett added.
You may still be feeling intimidated, especially if you don't think orange works with your complexion. Well, we have good news . . .
"Orange looks amazing on all skin tones and eye colors," Bartlett confirmed. "For deep skin and brown eyes, go for a rich tangerine that will pop. For fairer tones, choose a soft peach. Orange is especially complimentary on blue eyes."
OK, so now you're convinced and ready to DIY it. Try these tips from Bartlett: "For a fully saturated orange stare, the key is to be sure to blend it well. Apply the shadow on the lid and close to the lash line on the top only, using a small fluffy blending brush to bring a soft diffusion of color. The result is a subtle yet statement eye. Avoid rimming the entire eye in orange - it looks much better to splash it on the brow bone or lid for a flash of color!"
To execute this look, try Barlett's favorite pick - Makeup For Ever Artist Shadow in Tangerine.
Keep reading to see how mesmerizing orange eyes look on Instagram users!
The Best 150-Calorie Snacks For After Your Workout
Just as important as it is to fuel up before you exercise, don't forget to eat a little something once your workout is complete. Your body needs a combo of protein and carbs to build and repair muscle and quickly recharge lost energy. Don't go overboard and consume so many calories that it cancels out the ones you burned while sweating it out. Here are some ideas for post-workout snacks, all under 150 calories.
- Half a medium apple smeared with a mixture of two ounces of vanilla Greek yogurt, half a tablespoon of peanut butter, and a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon and topped with sliced grapes: 151 calories
- Four ounces low-fat cottage cheese (82 calories) mixed with three-quarters cup fresh blueberries (63 calories): 145 calories
- One extrasmall apple (53 calories) with one tablespoon peanut butter (94 calories): 147 calories
- 20 baby carrots (70 calories) with two tablespoons hummus (70 calories): 140 calories
- One organic mozzarella cheese stick (80 calories) and 20 grapes (68 calories): 148 calories
- 5.3-ounce container organic vanilla Greek yogurt (110 calories) and seven cherries (36 calories): 146 calories
- One small banana (89 calories) with eight raw almonds (55 calories): 144 calories
- Eight ounces organic low-fat chocolate milk (150 calories) or eight ounces Silk Chocolate Soymilk (120 calories)
- Half a Kind Dark Chocolate Nuts and Sea Salt Bar (100 calories) and eight medium strawberries (31 calories): 131 calories
- Trail mix made with 18 peanuts (97 calories) and a mini box of raisins (45 calories): 142 calories
- Three-quarters cup shelled edamame: 150 calories
Fuller House's Jodie Sweetin Has Called Off Her Engagement
Jodie Sweetin and fiancé Justin Hodak have ended their engagement, People confirms. An official statement from her rep reads, "We can confirm that actress Jodie Sweetin and her fiancé Justin Hodak have ended their relationship. She appreciates everyone's understanding for their need for privacy at this time." The Fuller House actress met Justin through mutual friends, and got engaged in January 2016 after two years of dating. Jodie was previously married to Cody Herpin, Shaun Holguin, and Marty Coyle, and is also mom to 8-year-old daughter Zoie and 6-year-old daughter Beatrix from previous marriages.
The Best 150-Calorie Snacks For After Your Workout
Just as important as it is to fuel up before you exercise, don't forget to eat a little something once your workout is complete. Your body needs a combo of protein and carbs to build and repair muscle and quickly recharge lost energy. Don't go overboard and consume so many calories that it cancels out the ones you burned while sweating it out. Here are some ideas for post-workout snacks, all under 150 calories.
- Half a medium apple smeared with a mixture of two ounces of vanilla Greek yogurt, half a tablespoon of peanut butter, and a quarter teaspoon of cinnamon and topped with sliced grapes: 151 calories
- Four ounces low-fat cottage cheese (82 calories) mixed with three-quarters cup fresh blueberries (63 calories): 145 calories
- One extrasmall apple (53 calories) with one tablespoon peanut butter (94 calories): 147 calories
- 20 baby carrots (70 calories) with two tablespoons hummus (70 calories): 140 calories
- One organic mozzarella cheese stick (80 calories) and 20 grapes (68 calories): 148 calories
- 5.3-ounce container organic vanilla Greek yogurt (110 calories) and seven cherries (36 calories): 146 calories
- One small banana (89 calories) with eight raw almonds (55 calories): 144 calories
- Eight ounces organic low-fat chocolate milk (150 calories) or eight ounces Silk Chocolate Soymilk (120 calories)
- Half a Kind Dark Chocolate Nuts and Sea Salt Bar (100 calories) and eight medium strawberries (31 calories): 131 calories
- Trail mix made with 18 peanuts (97 calories) and a mini box of raisins (45 calories): 142 calories
- Three-quarters cup shelled edamame: 150 calories
Fuller House's Jodie Sweetin Has Called Off Her Engagement
Jodie Sweetin and fiancé Justin Hodak have ended their engagement, People confirms. An official statement from her rep reads, "We can confirm that actress Jodie Sweetin and her fiancé Justin Hodak have ended their relationship. She appreciates everyone's understanding for their need for privacy at this time." The Fuller House actress met Justin through mutual friends, and got engaged in January 2016 after two years of dating. Jodie was previously married to Cody Herpin, Shaun Holguin, and Marty Coyle, and is also mom to 8-year-old daughter Zoie and 6-year-old daughter Beatrix from previous marriages.
What Bothers Meghan Markle Most About Being Biracial in Hollywood
Meghan Markle opened up about the joy and struggles of being a biracial woman in Allure's April issue, which is dedicated to "The Beauty in Diversity." The 35-year-old Suits star, who has been dating Prince Harry since last Summer, gave an insightful interview about being mistakenly stereotyped in auditions and having her beloved freckles airbrushed out of photos.
Meghan was born and raised in Los Angeles. Her mother Doria is black, a clinical therapist, and a yoga instructor who recently graduated from the University of Southern California with a masters degree in social work. Her father, Thomas, is of Dutch and Irish descent and is a retired Hollywood cinematographer and Emmy-award-winning television lighting director. He worked on the soap opera Santa Barbara and the sitcom Married With Children through the '80s and '90s. In her Allure profile, Meghan recalled the different skin tones of her family members. "I have the most vivid memories of being seven years old and my mom picking me up from my grandmother's house," she said. "There were the three of us, a family tree in an ombré of mocha next to the caramel complexion of my mom and light-skinned, freckled me. I remember the sense of belonging, having nothing to do with the color of my skin."
When she moved from LA to attend Northwestern University, Meghan's sense of self was shaken. "I took an African-American studies class where we explored colorism," she said. "It was the first time I could put a name to feeling too light in the black community, too mixed in the white community. For castings, I was labeled 'ethnically ambiguous.' Was I Latina? Sephardic? 'Exotic Caucasian'? Add the freckles to the mix and it created quite the conundrum." She goes on to talk about how both her racial identity and characterizing facial features are often erased in photo shoots and ends with a encouraging note to other multiracial women. "To this day, my pet peeve is when my skin tone is changed and my freckles are airbrushed out of a photo shoot. For all my freckle-faced friends out there, I will share with you something my dad told me when I was younger: 'A face without freckles is a night without stars.'"
What Bothers Meghan Markle Most About Being Biracial in Hollywood
Meghan Markle opened up about the joy and struggles of being a biracial woman in Allure's April issue, which is dedicated to "The Beauty in Diversity." The 35-year-old Suits star, who has been dating Prince Harry since last Summer, gave an insightful interview about being mistakenly stereotyped in auditions and having her beloved freckles airbrushed out of photos.
Meghan was born and raised in Los Angeles. Her mother Doria is black, a clinical therapist, and a yoga instructor who recently graduated from the University of Southern California with a masters degree in social work. Her father, Thomas, is of Dutch and Irish descent and is a retired Hollywood cinematographer and Emmy-award-winning television lighting director. He worked on the soap opera Santa Barbara and the sitcom Married With Children through the '80s and '90s. In her Allure profile, Meghan recalled the different skin tones of her family members. "I have the most vivid memories of being seven years old and my mom picking me up from my grandmother's house," she said. "There were the three of us, a family tree in an ombré of mocha next to the caramel complexion of my mom and light-skinned, freckled me. I remember the sense of belonging, having nothing to do with the color of my skin."
When she moved from LA to attend Northwestern University, Meghan's sense of self was shaken. "I took an African-American studies class where we explored colorism," she said. "It was the first time I could put a name to feeling too light in the black community, too mixed in the white community. For castings, I was labeled 'ethnically ambiguous.' Was I Latina? Sephardic? 'Exotic Caucasian'? Add the freckles to the mix and it created quite the conundrum." She goes on to talk about how both her racial identity and characterizing facial features are often erased in photo shoots and ends with a encouraging note to other multiracial women. "To this day, my pet peeve is when my skin tone is changed and my freckles are airbrushed out of a photo shoot. For all my freckle-faced friends out there, I will share with you something my dad told me when I was younger: 'A face without freckles is a night without stars.'"
Hannah Bronfman Shares Her Secret For Looking Detoxed at Your Wedding
Few people could juggle being a full-time DJ, fitness guru, jet-setting entrepreneur, and beauty aficionado at the same time, but Hannah Bronfman manages them all with impeccable swag and class.
We've long been fans of scrolling through Hannah's Instagram page for workout inspiration, for health hacks, and (to be perfectly honest) to swoon over her flawless, sun-kissed skin and badass nail art. Recently, she's been feeding our obsession with her lifestyle website HBFIT and her Hannahgram series for POPSUGAR, further proving that she has evolved from merely an Insta-crush to an all-encompassing resource for style-lovers. Her recent engagement to her longtime beau, fellow DJ Brendan Fallis, also has us patiently waiting for her to dominate the bridal beauty scene.
At The Body Shop's #EnrichNotExploit event showcasing the limited-edition Hemp Hand Protector ($20), we got to chat with HB about her beauty secrets. During our talk, it was apparent that Hannah is more than just another self-proclaimed "beauty guru." The girl knows her sh*t and uses her wealth of holistic health knowledge to fuel her daily regimen.
From her favorite at-home DIY hack and wedding prep to the current state of diversity in the style world, Hannah gave us some seriously thoughtful insight into not just her routine but also how to upgrade ours. If you haven't already declared her your ultimate celebrity BFF soul mate, read on to find out why she's about to skyrocket to the top of your girl-crush list.
This post was originally published on March 1, 2016.
We're Fangirling So Hard Over This Chic Beauty and the Beast Nail Polish Collection
Beauty and the Beast fans can now practically be decked our from head (or should we say crown) to toe in lovely beauty products that give a nod to our favorite Disney princess. To add to the collection of magical serums, lipsticks, and makeup cases inspired by the enchanting film, we now have the perfect way to land princess-approved nails, thanks to Red Carpet Manicure's new collection.
The brand's limited-edition collection includes a Gel Polish Pro Kit and six exclusive Gel Polish Colors inspired by the yellow-gown-wearing bookworm. In each kit are an LED light, application cleanser, adhesion sanitizer, and soak-off gel polish remover. The polishes are sold both individually and in duo packs alongside a Brilliance Top Coat.
This isn't the first Beauty and the Beast-inspired nail polish line we've fallen head over heels for, as Gelish Gel Polish and Morgan Taylor Professional Nail Lacquer recently joined forces to release a similarly gorgeous collection. Now you really don't have an excuse for not having a mani that Belle would approve of!
Read on to take a glimpse at the stunning shades, which are sure to get you even more excited for the movie premiere on March 17.
See Every Single Magical Shade and Swatch of Urban Decay's Unicorn Lipstick Topcoats
Game over, Urban Decay! While holographic "unicorn" lip glosses and metallic topcoats have already begun to spread through the market, UD just launched a showstopping set. Yesterday, we dropped the news that the brand created Vice Special Effects Lip Topcoats, and today we have the exclusive first look at all 12 shades, swatches, and the campaign images featuring Ruby Rose.
The colors are a dizzying array of blue, purple, green, white, and pink metallics with every type of iridescent, glittery infusion you can imagine. It's definitely - to borrow a phrase from UD - beauty with an edge. We imagine Wende Zomnir and crew watching the previous unicorn lipstick populate Instagram, thinking, "We can own this game." So they did. The result is your naughty night-out essential set. No-makeup makeup girls, proceed with caution.
Here's what we can tell you about the Vice Special Effects Lip Topcoat formula: it's a longwear and water-resistant (like many of UD's products) gel-cream formula. I'm pretty sensitive to dehydrating lip products, and this felt comfortable. This is due to nourishing marine collagen being a key ingredient.
The topcoat is meant to be a shade shifter and transform and lock in whatever color is underneath it. The flexible skinny applicator allowed me to easily line my pout before I filled it in. Because it dries down so fast, you don't have to worry about glitter particles falling all over your face. It didn't get on my coffee cup when I took a sip. It's like glitter lips for dummies.
Keep reading to see all 12 magical shades, swatches, and a sexy Ruby Rose in the campaign before it's available for $18 a pop on March 23 at urbandecay.com and on March 31 at Sephora, Ulta Beauty, and select Macy's stores.
This post was originally published on March 3, 2017.
This Is Not a Drill: Costco Will Start Delivering to Your Door!
In exciting grocery-shopping news we didn't see coming, Costco will soon be able to deliver to your doorstep! The wholesale retailer has partnered with Shipt, an app that delivers groceries to your door from a variety of stores, which now includes Costco. While one of the best parts of shopping at Costco is undoubtedly the endless supply of free samples, this new service will make shopping in bulk so much easier. No time like the present to stock up on Costco's addictive rotisserie chicken, am I right?
As of right now, Shipt is testing the Costco delivery service in Tampa, FL. "As we continue to scale Shipt on a national level, we look forward to offering more options for delivery to our Florida members today, and to Shipt members across the country in the future," Bill Smith, the founder and CEO of Shipt, said in a statement. One can only hope that Bill stays true to his word and expands this game-changing concept to Costco locations across the country.
The best part is that people who are not part of the Costco membership program will still be able to get Costco groceries delivered through Shipt, and that includes perishable items, too. More of the best frozen foods from Costco arriving on our doorstep? Yes, please.
The Harmful Effects of Instant Ramen Noodles
Yes, you know that instant ramen isn't good for you, but studies have confirmed just how harmful the prepackaged food can really be. A study in the Journal of Nutrition links instant noodle consumption with heart risk, particularly in women. The researchers conducted a study in South Korea, where consumption of instant noodles is the highest in the world, with more than 10,700 people ranging in age from 19 to 64. The results? "Women who consume instant noodles frequently were found to be more likely to have metabolic syndrome - the group of risk factors, including obesity and high blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar, that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes."
The harmful effects were predominantly found in women and not men. Part of the study reads, "Women - though not men - who ate instant noodles at least twice a week showed a 68 percent higher risk of metabolic syndrome," which is a syndrome that can increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The high sodium content in instant noodle products is obvious, but the main culprit is the noodles themselves. In another study by Dr. Braden Kuo, director of the gastrointestinal motility laboratory at Massachusetts General Hospital at Harvard University, the doctor found unsettling results after testing digestion of the noodles. He used a tiny camera to study the breakdown of instant ramen noodles in the stomach and found out just how difficult it is for your body to digest the preservative-filled noodles. Warning: the photos are graphic. A preservative called TBHQ, which is found in many processed foods including Reese's and Chicken McNuggets, extends shelf life of fatty foods and makes them harder to digest. It's one of the many ingredients in Maruchan Chicken Ramen.
If you're hopelessly devoted to instant ramen (and it's a budget-friendly staple in your life), all hope is not lost. Dr. Frank B. Hu, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at Harvard, told The New York Times, "Once or twice a month is not a problem, but a few times a week really is."
Moral of the story: eating college-friendly instant ramen is OK, but moderation is key.
We're Calling It: Ed Sheeran's "Perfect" Will Be the Next Big Wedding Song
Ed Sheeran delighted the world when his first album in nearly three years, Divide, dropped in early March. In addition to giving us our new St. Patrick's Day theme song with "Galway Girl," the singer also included one very special ballad that completely stands out on its own. While Ed's classic song "Thinking Out Loud" has become a staple for first dances at weddings, we have to admit it's become a little stale since everyone started using it. So Ed pulled through, and his new song "Perfect" is, well, perfect for that romantic moment on your big day. The lyrics are so beautiful that they'll surely leave your guests (and you) in tears as you slow dance with the love of your life.
Your Lips Will Be in Full-On Fairy Mode With Lime Crime’s New Top Coats
A spectrum of holographic "unicorn" and metallic lipstick top coats have surfaced into the beauty world, and we must admit that we aren't mad about the trend at all. Not only is rocking these rainbow-like products just a way to solidify your status as a mythical creature, but it's an equally fun way to give any basic lip color new life.
Lime Crime, a brand known for its incredibly vibrant lip hues, has tapped into the recent trend with the release of its Diamond Crushers collection ($19 each). Now, the brand is extending the range with three new colors that will make your lips bling: Black Unicorn, a shimmering oil-slick hue; Cleopatra, a blush-toned rose gold; and Acid Fairy, an iridescent shade with flecks of lavender and mint. The brand is also launching a Black Unicorn bundle ($40) with all three colors so you don't have to worry about picking favorites.
Unlike other recent top coat launches, Lime Crime's Diamond Crushers are not to be confused with gloss. Instead, the water-based formula functions as a topper that can be worn alone or over your favorite lipstick. Each shade promises superlong wear without drying out your pout. They are also nontransferable so you won't have to worry about your fairy dust lipstick smudging on your clothes.
The exact launch date for these colors is not yet confirmed, but according to the brand website, you can expect them to drop soon. You can also sign up to be notified as soon as they are available. In the meantime, read on to get a better look at the gorgeous shades up close!
No One Has Mastered the Art of the Celebrity Selfie Better Than Samuel L. Jackson
Over the course of his long career, Samuel L. Jackson has mastered a number of things. Killing bad guys? Check. Recapping Game of Thrones? Check. Killing all of the motherf*cking snakes on the motherf*cking planes? Double, triple check. On top of all that, take a look at the Kong: Skull Island actor's Instagram account and you'll soon discover that he's particularly fond of taking selfies, especially with other celebrities. Does he manage to get his entire face into every shot? OK, no, maybe not. (Help him out, Kim.) In fact it seems like he actually prefers to take photos with just the tiniest, inconspicuous sliver of his trademark glasses sticking out of the corner, while the spotlight falls on stars like Tom Hanks, James Corden, Brie Larson, and Spike Lee. Frankly, we can't get enough of his unintentionally hilarious selfie style, and we're keeping our fingers crossed for more.
This Is Already Turning Out to Be Selena Gomez's Sexiest Year Yet
Selena Gomez is back from her 2016 hiatus with a vengeance. Not only is the singer working on a new album (and collaborations with Paulina Rubio and Kygo), she also teased a Wizards of Waverly Place reunion, landed a new hot relationship with The Weeknd, posed for a now-deleted topless and thong-clad photo, and covered her first issue of Vogue - wow, right?
If all of that is any indication, Selena will surely have her hottest year ever. We predict she'll show off an even more revealing sense of style, give us more sultry Instagram selfies and magazine spreads, and probably come out with the most sensual album cover she's yet to give us. Scroll ahead for her sexiest moments so far.
Gigi Hadid's Mom Is About to Mentor a Bunch of Models on Reality TV
If you've missed watching Yolanda Hadid on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, not to worry because the power mama is back. The star is set to host Lifetime's new show Model Moms, where she will coach aspiring teen models to succeed in the industry.
"Yolanda, along with her trusted team of experts, will put the girls and their 'momagers' through an intensive eight-week training program, focused on the physical, mental, and emotional wellness that it takes to build a sustainable brand," the network said.
This topic is one Yolanda's pretty familiar with. She was a famous model in the '80s and birthed the genetically-blessed trio Bella, Gigi, and Anwar. All three kids have rightfully earned their stripes with the fashion crowd too. So, Yolanda is basically the cheerleader and mentor you'll want on your side.
The host will choose one winner at the end of the show, who will then sign a management contract with Yolanda's company and receive potential representations with IMG Models - the same agency that reps all three Hadid siblings. Get ready everyone, mama Yolanda is back!
55 Things You Never Thought You'd Say Until You Became a Parent
Source: Flickr user lightfalling
Kids say the darnedest things, and sometimes parents do, too - especially where their children are concerned. There are some phrases you would never imagine saying - that is, until you have kids. Then it's appropriate to ask questions like, "Is her poo hard, soft, runny, or just right?" or "Why would you want to collect boogers?" because kids can get into all sorts of trouble and messes. Although we laugh along to our children's silly antics, we also have to set some ground rules - like not licking the floor. Keep reading to see the things you never thought you'd say, and then let us know what your personal one-liners have been.
Source: Flickr user birdtrouble
1. "Why would you want to collect boogers?"
2. "Let your sister out from under the couch cushions."
3. "Your penis itches? Let me see."
4. "Let's not eat things we find in our underwear."
5. "Why did you cut your eyelashes? Don't do that!"
6. "No, you may not put a bottle of pee in the freezer to see what happens."
7. "Cat food is NOT for human consumption."
8. "No, I don't know if Mario marries Peach or if he's also going out with Rosalina."
9. "It's not OK to use a fart as a weapon."
10. "A pretend helmet can't actually protect your head."
Source: Flickr user clarkmaxwell
11. "Just . . . go outside and play."
12. "Why are you taping candy to the wall?"
13. "Nipples is not a name."
14. "Do not throw pancakes at your mother."
15. "No, you may not paint the dog."
16. "Was her poo hard, soft, runny, or just right?"
17. "Put the goldfish back in the fish tank!"
Source: Flickr user joeshlabotnik
18. "Let go of my boob!"
19. "Please stop eating the sunscreen."
20. "Your vagina is not a toy."
21. "Don't lick your sister."
22. "Do not stick your finger anywhere near your brother's eyeball. Ever."
23. "Have you pooped today?"
Source: Flickr user darrenkw
24. "No, you can't ride in the trunk."
25. "Stop surfing the coffee table."
26. "Don't lick the sidewalk."
27. "Please don't sit on his head!"
28. "Get the Legos out of your pants."
29. "Books are for reading, not walking on."
30. "Stop eating Play-Doh!"
Source: Flickr user mattjessz
31. "I don't appreciate your feet in my face."
32. "If all of your friends jumped off a cliff, would you?"
33. "When I was your age . . . "
34. "How many times do I have to tell you?"
35. "Someday, when you're older, you'll understand."
36. "Why are there Legos in the peanut butter?"
37. "Don't lick the TV screen!"
38. "Please don't put your hands in your poop."
39. "No, you cannot lick the floor."
40. "I really don't know if Sofia the First has ever peed her bed."
41. "Do not bite the cat!"
42. "Don't eat the crayons!"
Source: Flickr user celinesphotographer
43. "Stop drinking your bath water."
44. "Bend over so I can wipe your butt."
45. "You can't play with the potato; I need to cook it!"
46. "Don't color the cat!"
47. "You can't just go up to people and ask if they have a penis."
48. "Baths are not optional or negotiable."
49. "We don't fart in public and laugh."
50. "That diaper is so cute!"
51. "We have to pay for it first, then you can eat it."
Source: Flickr user proimos
52. "OK, give me your balls now!"
53. "If you don't play with all these toys, I'm going to give them to . . . "
54. "Put your shirt back on! We're in public!"
55. "Because I said so."
Here's Where Harry Potter Fans Can Find Brand-New Butterbeer Ice Cream
Your next Harry Potter marathon is about to get a major upgrade thanks to butterbeer ice cream. Yes, you read that right - it's real, and it's going to be available at grocery stores all over the country, meaning you don't have to apparate to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter World to experience its magical taste. Yuengling is the mastermind behind the Harry Potter-inspired ice cream, which is a combination of buttercream ice cream and butterscotch ice cream with a butterscotch swirl.
The best part? You don't have to rush to the store to try it out before it's gone - this new flavor is not limited edition, and it's here to join Yuengling's other ice cream flavors. You can pick up a pint for $4 at many local grocery stores and retailers. "We hope we made J.K. Rowling proud with this flavor," Yuengling said in a statement. We highly recommend making a big batch of homemade butterbeer and buying a few pints of butterbeer ice cream for the best night of binge-watching ever.
No One Has Mastered the Art of the Celebrity Selfie Better Than Samuel L. Jackson
Over the course of his long career, Samuel L. Jackson has mastered a number of things. Killing bad guys? Check. Recapping Game of Thrones? Check. Killing all of the motherf*cking snakes on the motherf*cking planes? Double, triple check. On top of all that, take a look at the Kong: Skull Island actor's Instagram account and you'll soon discover that he's particularly fond of taking selfies, especially with other celebrities. Does he manage to get his entire face into every shot? OK, no, maybe not. (Help him out, Kim.) In fact it seems like he actually prefers to take photos with just the tiniest, inconspicuous sliver of his trademark glasses sticking out of the corner, while the spotlight falls on stars like Tom Hanks, James Corden, Brie Larson, and Spike Lee. Frankly, we can't get enough of his unintentionally hilarious selfie style, and we're keeping our fingers crossed for more.
Beat Your Face Like an Instagram Beauty Guru With Sigma's New Brush Set
Beauty dreams just came true for influencer Jackie Aina! Last year, she posted a Snapchat revealing her five favorite, can't-live-without brushes from Sigma Beauty. The team behind brand spotted the video and was so pleased by her picks, they teamed up with her to create a bespoke collection.
Considering Jackie's immense talent - and flawlessly blended face - this set is a must have. The influencer took to her Instagram account to explain the brushes in her own words. She achieves her impeccable foundation with the F80 Flat Kabuki and highlights her cheekbones with the F35 Tapered Highlight. "The E69 Line Perfector is the ONLY angled brush I use to carve out them brows," she remarked, and she uses the E20 Short Shader on her bottom lash line. But her ultimate favorite tool in the set is the E38 Diffused Crease, which she uses for blending shadows. "It works for ALL eye shapes!!" Jackie insisted.
This isn't the artist's first collaboration, though. She partnered with affordable makeup brand E.L.F. in the Summer of 2016 for a custom eye shadow palette. It's quite fitting that you can use some of the tools in this collection with the product from her last collaboration!
If you purchased each of these brushes separately, it'd set you back $99, but this quintet only costs $69. (You can get an additional 10 percent off with Jackie's code, JACKIESIGMA, so go ahead and treat yourself.) Keep reading to get a closer look at the tools, then shop the set.
This Woman's Makeup Looks Date-Night Ready, but She's Actually in Labor
While we've heard of some women getting delivery-room blowouts and prelabor lash extensions, we've never seen someone give birth looking as glam as Instagram user makeupbyalaha. The New York-based makeup artist shared images of herself propped up in a hospital bed surrounded by palettes as she applied a full face of product . . . despite contractions.
"I was pausing during contractions and picking up where I left off once the contractions passed," she explained to her followers. She even revealed which of her favorite makeup items made the cut into her hospital bag. You'll notice that there are at least 15 brushes, a 35-pan shadow palette, contouring products, Beautyblenders, and more.
While not all moms would go this far with their prebaby beauty routine, we have to applaud Alaha's dedication to her craft - and her ability to create such a gorgeous makeup masterpiece while in pain! Read on to see all the photos.
This post was originally published on March 15, 2016.
7 Myths Nutritionists Wish You'd Stop Believing
There's a lot of misinformation out there, but dietitian Julie Upton, MS, RD, of Appetite For Health, is here to shed light on seven nutritional myths that could mess with your weight-loss efforts and your health.
The Internet is like the Wild West when it comes to nutrition information: anything goes. Websites are rife with less-than-accurate nutrition facts, which only fuels food myths and adds to consumers' confusion about which picks are the healthiest. At best, you can hope there's a kernel of truth in what you're reading, but more often than not, there's no scientific basis for these myths. Below are seven of the most popular nutrition myths and the real deal on each.
Myth 1: You need to detox your body with a juice cleanse.
Fact: From celebrities to personal trainers, there's no shortage of so-called experts advocating fasts or juice cleanses to detox. If you Google "detox," you'll get nearly 64 million results for diet programs and treatments that are supposed to help "flush out your system," "remove toxic substances from the body," "give your GI tract a rest," or "speed up your metabolism" and "enhance your overall health." But despite all the hype and popularity, there's little proof that fasting or following a deprivation diet for several days actually delivers on any of the above promises.
While an occasional short fast or a day of following a "juice diet" won't cause harm for most healthy people, it will likely leave you feeling cranky and hungry. If you really want to be and feel your best, eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, get adequate sleep, and don't drink more than one alcoholic beverage per day.
Myth 2: Diet sodas make you gain weight.
Fact: While you may have read that diet beverages make you gain weight, a recent clinical trial found just the opposite. In the 12-week study, published in the journal Obesity, dieters who drank diet beverages lost 13 pounds on average - 44 percent more than subjects drinking water only, who lost an average of nine pounds. What's more, the diet-soda drinkers reported feeling more satisfied. This study adds to a substantial body of research demonstrating that low-calorie sweeteners and the diet beverages that contain them do not hinder but can in fact help with weight loss. Two peer-reviewed studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by researchers from the University of North Carolina in 2012 and 2013 randomly assigned subjects to drink either water or diet beverages (without making any other changes to their diet). After six months, the diet-beverage group had a greater likelihood of reaching a meaningful amount of weight loss - five percent of one's body weight - compared to the control group. These studies reinforce that if you're trying to lose weight, diet beverages may help you peel off pounds, as they can help you achieve and maintain a lower-calorie eating plan.
Myth 3: Canola oil is made from rapeseed plants, which are toxic.
Fact: Canola oil comes from the crushed seeds of canola plants - not rapeseed plants, which are, in fact, harmful. Rapeseed oil contains high levels of erucic acid, which is linked to heart disease and therefore is not allowed to be sold in the US. While the two plants are cousins, they're distinctly different in their composition. In the 1960s, farmers used breeding methods to help eliminate the erucic acid from canola plants, and canola oil is now regulated to contain negligible amounts of the compound, ensuring that canola oil is 100 percent safe. In fact, it also happens to be one of the healthiest oils (behind olive oil) because it has less saturated fat and more heart-protective omega-3s than other vegetable oils. Canola oil is just seven percent saturated fat compared to olive oil, which is 15 percent saturated fat.
Myth 4: Sea salt has less sodium than table salt and is mineral-rich.
Fact: Run-of-the-mill Morton table salt and gourmet Himalayan sea salt contain essentially the same amount of sodium per teaspoon - 2,300 milligrams. As for minerals, neither contains enough of any mineral to make it a clear winner over the other. For instance, a teaspoon of table salt has just 1 mg calcium compared to 12 mg in sea salt. Since 12 mg is just one percent of your daily needs, it's not a very healthy way to get calcium into your diet.
Most people believe that sea salt tastes better and, in some cases, you may be able to use less of it (and therefore reduce your sodium intake), but it is by no means a lower-sodium and more mineral-rich option. Keep in mind, sea salt lacks iodine - and not getting enough of this compound can lead to goiter, intellectual impairments, growth retardation, and much more. In fact, iodine deficiency is a serious health threat, especially among pregnant women, according to Boston University researchers, so don't use sea salt exclusively in your diet.
Myth 5: Some foods, like celery, have negative calories.
Fact: When something sounds too good to be true, well, it probably is. Take "negative-calorie foods" as an example. The notion is that digesting certain foods burns more calories than those foods provide. The faulty logic of this urban legend is based on the scientifically proven thermic effect of food (TEF), which simply means the amount of energy the body uses to digest a food. The thinking goes, if you were to eat a very low-calorie food - common examples include celery, apples, and limes - then you'd actually create a calorie deficit. In other words, these foods would end up costing less-than-zero calories.
Sadly, there are no negative-calorie foods. The TEF generally ranges from 10 percent to 20 percent of the calories in a food. So let's say a celery stalk has seven calories. Even if you assume a 20 percent TEF, that means you're still left with about five and a half calories.
Myth 6: It takes 21 days to break a bad habit (or form a new one).
Fact: Popular self-help gurus and many diet plans claim that it will take 21 days to form a new healthy habit - or break a bad one. The truth is, there is no magical time frame for breaking bad habits. One study that evaluated behavior change found that creating a new habit, like eating a piece of fruit daily, took an average of 66 days. However, there were wide variations - anywhere from 18 days to 254 days. The authors found the adaptation time was a function of how hard the new behavior is as well as the individual. If you're trying something new, like daily exercise, give yourself time to make it a routine. It may not happen overnight - or even in 21 days!
Myth 7: Muscle can turn to fat ( . . . and vice versa).
Fact: You'll often hear someone at the gym say something like, "Since my injury, my muscles have turned to mush." But this isn't the case because muscle and fat tissues are entirely different, and therefore they can never transform from one to the other. It's the equivalent of saying you can turn water into wine or lead into gold.
What really happens when you stop exercising is that your muscle mass declines. And how you gain fat tissue is when you eat more calories than you burn off, which is much easier to do when you're not exercising. And likewise, when you up your exercise routine, you'll add lean tissue and might start burning excess body fat, but your fat didn't turn into muscle.
10 Memorable Carrie Bradshaw Quotes to Live By
There's a reason so many people consider themselves "a Carrie." Carrie Bradshaw's lines on life, love, and friendship may include a cliché or five, but more often than not, her words are refreshingly relatable, offering sharp insights into what's important. Although the HBO show went off the air more than a decade ago, there are plenty of reasons why Sex and the City is still important, both for its pop-culture impact and for its timeless portrayal of what it means to be a confident woman and a thoughtful friend. In honor of Parker's birthday, let's look back at Carrie's iconic role and 10 of her most memorable quotes on love and life.
These Jaw-Dropping Jewels Are About to Replace Your Choker Obsession
This time last year, you'd be hard-pressed to find a style blogger or celebrity who wasn't wearing a choker with just about everything she owns. Now, there's another jewelry obsession; trendsetters are swapping necklaces for the bold earrings we saw on the Spring '17 runways.
Armed with jeweled florals, pom-poms, beaded fringe, and high-octane color, these earrings have a special-occasion feel, but don't be fooled - they're meant to be worn every day. The beautiful colors, textures, and jeweled iterations will dress up your go-to work and weekend looks, and yes, they're perfect for those big events too. Shop 18 pairs you'll want to wear on repeat right here.
7 Myths Nutritionists Wish You'd Stop Believing
There's a lot of misinformation out there, but dietitian Julie Upton, MS, RD, of Appetite For Health, is here to shed light on seven nutritional myths that could mess with your weight-loss efforts and your health.
The Internet is like the Wild West when it comes to nutrition information: anything goes. Websites are rife with less-than-accurate nutrition facts, which only fuels food myths and adds to consumers' confusion about which picks are the healthiest. At best, you can hope there's a kernel of truth in what you're reading, but more often than not, there's no scientific basis for these myths. Below are seven of the most popular nutrition myths and the real deal on each.
Myth 1: You need to detox your body with a juice cleanse.
Fact: From celebrities to personal trainers, there's no shortage of so-called experts advocating fasts or juice cleanses to detox. If you Google "detox," you'll get nearly 64 million results for diet programs and treatments that are supposed to help "flush out your system," "remove toxic substances from the body," "give your GI tract a rest," or "speed up your metabolism" and "enhance your overall health." But despite all the hype and popularity, there's little proof that fasting or following a deprivation diet for several days actually delivers on any of the above promises.
While an occasional short fast or a day of following a "juice diet" won't cause harm for most healthy people, it will likely leave you feeling cranky and hungry. If you really want to be and feel your best, eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, get adequate sleep, and don't drink more than one alcoholic beverage per day.
Myth 2: Diet sodas make you gain weight.
Fact: While you may have read that diet beverages make you gain weight, a recent clinical trial found just the opposite. In the 12-week study, published in the journal Obesity, dieters who drank diet beverages lost 13 pounds on average - 44 percent more than subjects drinking water only, who lost an average of nine pounds. What's more, the diet-soda drinkers reported feeling more satisfied. This study adds to a substantial body of research demonstrating that low-calorie sweeteners and the diet beverages that contain them do not hinder but can in fact help with weight loss. Two peer-reviewed studies published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition by researchers from the University of North Carolina in 2012 and 2013 randomly assigned subjects to drink either water or diet beverages (without making any other changes to their diet). After six months, the diet-beverage group had a greater likelihood of reaching a meaningful amount of weight loss - five percent of one's body weight - compared to the control group. These studies reinforce that if you're trying to lose weight, diet beverages may help you peel off pounds, as they can help you achieve and maintain a lower-calorie eating plan.
Myth 3: Canola oil is made from rapeseed plants, which are toxic.
Fact: Canola oil comes from the crushed seeds of canola plants - not rapeseed plants, which are, in fact, harmful. Rapeseed oil contains high levels of erucic acid, which is linked to heart disease and therefore is not allowed to be sold in the US. While the two plants are cousins, they're distinctly different in their composition. In the 1960s, farmers used breeding methods to help eliminate the erucic acid from canola plants, and canola oil is now regulated to contain negligible amounts of the compound, ensuring that canola oil is 100 percent safe. In fact, it also happens to be one of the healthiest oils (behind olive oil) because it has less saturated fat and more heart-protective omega-3s than other vegetable oils. Canola oil is just seven percent saturated fat compared to olive oil, which is 15 percent saturated fat.
Myth 4: Sea salt has less sodium than table salt and is mineral-rich.
Fact: Run-of-the-mill Morton table salt and gourmet Himalayan sea salt contain essentially the same amount of sodium per teaspoon - 2,300 milligrams. As for minerals, neither contains enough of any mineral to make it a clear winner over the other. For instance, a teaspoon of table salt has just 1 mg calcium compared to 12 mg in sea salt. Since 12 mg is just one percent of your daily needs, it's not a very healthy way to get calcium into your diet.
Most people believe that sea salt tastes better and, in some cases, you may be able to use less of it (and therefore reduce your sodium intake), but it is by no means a lower-sodium and more mineral-rich option. Keep in mind, sea salt lacks iodine - and not getting enough of this compound can lead to goiter, intellectual impairments, growth retardation, and much more. In fact, iodine deficiency is a serious health threat, especially among pregnant women, according to Boston University researchers, so don't use sea salt exclusively in your diet.
Myth 5: Some foods, like celery, have negative calories.
Fact: When something sounds too good to be true, well, it probably is. Take "negative-calorie foods" as an example. The notion is that digesting certain foods burns more calories than those foods provide. The faulty logic of this urban legend is based on the scientifically proven thermic effect of food (TEF), which simply means the amount of energy the body uses to digest a food. The thinking goes, if you were to eat a very low-calorie food - common examples include celery, apples, and limes - then you'd actually create a calorie deficit. In other words, these foods would end up costing less-than-zero calories.
Sadly, there are no negative-calorie foods. The TEF generally ranges from 10 percent to 20 percent of the calories in a food. So let's say a celery stalk has seven calories. Even if you assume a 20 percent TEF, that means you're still left with about five and a half calories.
Myth 6: It takes 21 days to break a bad habit (or form a new one).
Fact: Popular self-help gurus and many diet plans claim that it will take 21 days to form a new healthy habit - or break a bad one. The truth is, there is no magical time frame for breaking bad habits. One study that evaluated behavior change found that creating a new habit, like eating a piece of fruit daily, took an average of 66 days. However, there were wide variations - anywhere from 18 days to 254 days. The authors found the adaptation time was a function of how hard the new behavior is as well as the individual. If you're trying something new, like daily exercise, give yourself time to make it a routine. It may not happen overnight - or even in 21 days!
Myth 7: Muscle can turn to fat ( . . . and vice versa).
Fact: You'll often hear someone at the gym say something like, "Since my injury, my muscles have turned to mush." But this isn't the case because muscle and fat tissues are entirely different, and therefore they can never transform from one to the other. It's the equivalent of saying you can turn water into wine or lead into gold.
What really happens when you stop exercising is that your muscle mass declines. And how you gain fat tissue is when you eat more calories than you burn off, which is much easier to do when you're not exercising. And likewise, when you up your exercise routine, you'll add lean tissue and might start burning excess body fat, but your fat didn't turn into muscle.
Amanda Seyfried Gives Birth to a Baby Girl!
Amanda Seyfried is a mom! The Fathers & Daughters actress recently welcomed her first child, a baby girl, with husband Thomas Sadoski, her rep confirmed to People. No other information about the birth or the little one's name have been released. The exciting news comes just one week after Thomas announced on The Late Late Show that the two wed in a secret ceremony in upstate New York on March 12. Congratulations to the happy couple!
Kylie Cosmetics Is Mailing Empty Highlighters, and Everyone's Pissed
Imagine this scenario: you rush to your mailbox one afternoon and see that your highly anticipated Kylie Cosmetics package has finally arrived, after days of incessantly tracking the delivery online. But when you rip into the box and flip open the Kylighter container, there's no shimmery makeup in sight. Sounds like a horror film plot, am I right?
Well it looks like this has actually been a reality for some unlucky Kylie Cosmetics fans. Shortly after Kylie Cosmetics finally released its collection of six shimmery highlighters, the entire stock quickly sold out online, much to the dismay of die-hard fans who weren't able to punch in their credit card info quickly enough. Apparently the cosmetics brand decided to cope with the overwhelming demand by sending empty packages to its customers.
Rightfully so, many makeup mavens were pretty darn peeved about spending $22 for a Kylighter (or a whopping $130 for the whole bundle) and receiving nothing but an empty plastic container. So they used social media to share photos of their sad, desolate packaging, along with a few words about their frustration.
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.
7 Spring Cleaning Tasks Every Beauty Girl Should Check Off Her List
Don't tell us you're too busy! We're going to make this fairly easy on you: try one of these Spring cleaning tasks every day, and by the end of the week, you'll be on your way to having a dope beauty "battle station." The alternative? You'll be using expired makeup with bacteria-infested tools - and won't have room for new swag!
Disinfect Your Beauty Sponge:
We are flagging this one, since it's the step many of us forget - or choose not - to do. (You know who you are.) Pros recommend cleaning it every day, and we're fans of this double-cleansing technique, especially if yours is stained. Replace sponges every three months. Also, buy your little guy a case or stand so it doesn't pick up extra bacteria laying on a counter.
Clean Your Makeup Brushes:
The more advanced method to do this is by DIYing an olive oil and antibacterial soap concoction. Or try the lazy-girl way: snag this Sephora Dry Shampoo for Brushes to simply mist your makeup tools. There's no drying time, so you can use them immediately. No excuses now!
Tidy Up Your Hair Brush:
Once you've dropped at least $40 on a designer hair brush, you may as well keep it looking fresh. We're a fan of this Philip B rake that easily gets extra hair, fuzz, and dirt off of the bristles.
Toss Out Expired Products:
We know parting with products - even if there's only a drop left - can be difficult. But if it's expired, then you have a solid excuse to let it go . . . into the garbage. "Time and exposure to air, sun, or heat can cause the active ingredients - the ones that give you the results - to become less and less active," Tata Harper said. "That's why I personally don't like to put anything on my skin that's more than a year old." Follow this rule - plus these more specific guidelines - for when makeup and skin care needs to be retired.
KonMari Your Stash:
Either buy Marie Kondo's bestselling book, The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up or rely on this cheat sheet to help you decide what to keep, toss, and donate. In general follow this mantra: if an item doesn't bring you joy, send it on its way.
Invest in Storage:
Once you'd made room for non-expired products you truly love, invest in chic, multifunctional beauty storage pieces. Your new organized vanity may just become an Instagram hit if you share a photo of it.
Go Shopping:
If you followed this guide, then you earned it! Invest in Spring beauty products that will help you try out the season's hottest trends. (We're excited for surfer-girl hair and neon, matte lips!)
Amanda Seyfried Gives Birth to a Baby Girl!
Amanda Seyfried is a mom! The Fathers & Daughters actress recently welcomed her first child, a baby girl, with husband Thomas Sadoski, her rep confirmed to People. No other information about the birth or the little one's name have been released. The exciting news comes just one week after Thomas announced on The Late Late Show that the two wed in a secret ceremony in upstate New York on March 12. Congratulations to the happy couple!
The Incredible Thing 1 Woman Learned From Being a Surrogate Mom
For many, the road to motherhood is a difficult journey, but for the surrogates who make some women's dreams come true, this experience is unlike any other. However, the one thing all of these women have in common is their strength.
Mel Holman - who has been a surrogate mother twice, as well as an egg donor - shed light on her experience by sharing a powerful message on Constance Hall's Facebook page. "A few weeks ago I gave birth to a baby boy. This is me holding him. He was perfect - a screaming newborn mess, lifted off my stomach and put gently into his Mother's loving arms," she wrote. "Those arms were not mine. She's next to me in this picture."
Mel understands how difficult it is for some women to get pregnant despite their intense desire to be mothers and doesn't take her ability to conceive for granted.
"While working as a nurse, one day I came across a woman in tears. She was devastated after yet another round of failed IVF. All I wanted to do was fix it for her," she wrote. "I first donated my eggs to a woman who had been trying to conceive for 13 years. Eighteen children have now been born using my donated eggs."
For Mel, she and these other women are similar - whether they can easily get pregnant or not. Just like the theme of a lecture on feminism that she recently sat in on, Mel believes that women can achieve incredible things when they work together. What she's learned from making another woman a mother is something that not many realize.
"While supporting women through infertility, I am constantly amazed at the strength, resilience, and determination of these women. Most of all, their endless capacity to love and care for their sisterhood.
I see the fear, the sadness, and yet the hope and excitement etched on their faces as we make plans - often after a long journey of multiple miscarriages and repeated IVF attempts. Their dreams of cuddling their child seemingly closer. Knowledge that joining a mother's group or doing the school run could soon be a part of their story.
They are fierce and bold and determined to keep trying, even when they are scared and feel let down - over and over. For many, their perseverance paid off. Now they're moms who get a rainbow macaroni necklace on Mother's Day just like I do. But it wasn't easy. In all these women, donors, recipients, those who never conceived . . . I found the meaning of strength, resilience, and love."
15 Disney World Tips You Need to Know Before Your Next Vacation
The folks at FamilyFun Magazine are, as you might have guessed, experts at fun family activities. And because a Walt Disney World vacation is the epitome of joyful leisure, that means they know a thing or two about the beloved Orlando theme parks! Using all of its expertise and fun-savvy, FamilyFun compiled a list of tips and tricks that will make your next Disney World trip out-of-control amazing. Check out 15 of the magazine's best ways to beat the heat (and lines) at WDW, and you'll never want your vacation to end.
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