Healthy lifestyle
A healthy lifestyle is one which helps to keep and improve people's health and well-being.Many governments and non-governmental organizations have made big efforts in healthy lifestyle and health promotion.
Mental Health
Mental health can be considered a very important factor of physical health for the effects it produces on bodily functions. This type of health concerns emotional and cognitive well-being or an absence of mental disorder.
Public health
Public health can be defined in a variety of ways. It can be presented as "the study of the physical, psychosocial and socio-cultural determinants of population health and actions to improve the health of the population.
Reproductive Health
For the UN, reproductive health is a right, like other human rights. This recent concept evokes the good transmission of the genetic heritage from one generation to the next.
Health
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
dimanche 3 septembre 2017
Where Does Fat Go When We Lose It? The Answer Will Blow Your Mind
This may seem like a silly question, but it's one we've all pondered at least a few times along our weight-loss journeys. Where does the fat go when we lose weight? Do the fat cells burst and flush out? Do we expel it during bathroom breaks? Do little fairies fly in at night and swipe away all that unwanted jiggle? Let's get into the science, dispel some myths, and answer some (fat-)burning questions.
First of all, there is a difference between weight loss and fat loss. Weight loss is an overall decrease in the number on the scale. This could be from water loss, muscle loss, fat loss, or even getting a drastic haircut (and no, we're not referencing your bangs in high school). Fat loss, however, is the amount of body fat we lose, and this is done when the body burns off more calories than it consumes in a given day.
According to certified personal trainer Heather Neff, "To lose fat, you need to rev up your metabolism with plenty of exercise and good nutrition." But you can't live without fat. It's as indispensable to your body as muscle, blood, and bone!
Sounds crazy, right? The truth is that fat doesn't make you fat, as many have been led to believe; "it helps to burn fat and aids in so many body processes," Neff said. Fat is the delivery system for hormones. It is essential for brain function, muscle growth, and so much more. Now before you jump for joy on the way to the nearest Dunkin' Donuts, I have the unenviable task of making it clear that we're talking about healthy fats that can be found in foods such as avocados, eggs, lean meats, organic dairy, nuts, seeds, bananas, and others.
OK, so you can't exactly cut fat out of your system, but where does fat go when you lose it? The answer to that may surprise you. According to a study by Australian physicist Ruben Meerman and University of New South Wales professor Andrew Brown, the majority of the "lost" mass is breathed out as carbon dioxide. The research, published in the British Medical Journal, suggests that many doctors and dieticians still harbor the misconception that fat is converted to energy, heat, or muscle. In reality, as Mr. Meerman points out in a news release, it simply "goes into thin air."
So the fat doesn't leave your body in the form of urine or feces (well, not completely). If you lose 20 pounds, just over 80 percent of that is going to be exhaled by the lungs, and the remainder will be excreted via urine, feces, sweating, and tears (happy ones, we hope).
All of this might make you rethink your next workout in favor of some breathing exercises to ramp up your fat loss. Unfortunately, you cannot lose weight simply by making yourself breathe faster (hyperventilating). It doesn't work that way. It happens through a metabolic process, so don't go making yourself light-headed. Just keep your metabolism in check by moving during the day and eating whole, healthy foods. Also drink plenty of water, because it needs to be replaced as we lose it faster during exercise through sweat and respiration. Eventually, the weight will come off and it'll mostly be expelled through your breath - but you'll only see real results by working out and eating right.
Start Losing Weight Now With These 100 Tips
Losing weight is a journey made up of a million healthy choices we make each day. So keep these 100 tips in mind to continue on that healthy path, little by little.
After Years of Exercising, This Is the Workout That Changed My Body
When I started working out with a trainer a few months ago, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but if there's one thing I am certain of, a barbell was never part of the equation. Yet here I was, standing in front of one with my trainer off to the side asking me to do deadlifts. I was equal parts perplexed, scared, and thrilled. In all my years of working out, heavy lifting was something I had never done. Like everyone else in my life, I hopped from trendy studio to trendy studio for my workouts, and though there was a weight room at my gym, the idea of picking up a barbell on my own seemed terrifying.
I looked down at the 65-pound steel bar and then looked up at my trainer Austin (a few times in a lame attempt to stall). With no knowledge of or prior exposure to lifting, I was also dealing with the real fear that I would possibly drop this thing, along with myself, in the process. Sensing my fear, he talked me through the steps repeatedly with the right amount of encouragement, until I grabbed the damn thing and remarkably pulled it off - "with ease and perfect form," he would later tell me. I surprised myself; I was stronger than I gave myself credit for. Austin added weight to the bar at a quick pace, which I think even surprised him.
Looking back, I am not sure why I stayed away from a barbell for so many years. Sure, I wasn't exposed to it, but I also never allowed myself to even explore the idea. When I heard SoulCycle was coming to my city, I was in the very first class. When the new TRX studio moved in down the block, I couldn't wait to try it! But lifting? Nope. Despite my firm belief that women are strong AF, there was a part of me that thought of lifting as a man's world, or at least the kind of world where you go when you want biceps as big as your head. And if I am being totally honest, huge 'ceps weren't what I was looking for.
The kicker here is that it has has changed my body in a way that I never could have anticipated. I have lost more weight over these last three months than I have in the last few years. I am stronger and faster in just about every other workout in my life. And most recently, during a beach vacation, my partner commented on my butt. It was higher! Perkier! Lifted! Rounded! I went into heavy lifting with the very wrong idea that it would add bulk, yet here I am feeling my absolute best and more confident than I have in a long time. Even more importantly is the understanding that this confidence had less to do with how I look and everything to do with how I feel.
The thrill of doing something new mixed with a real sense of accomplishment has given me an exercise high that I have not felt in a very long time. Instead of being terrified of a barbell, I now give my trainer grief when we aren't lifting. Through this process, I have come face to face with my physicality in a way that has never happened. There's also a real sense of pride from seeing more weight being racked up on the bar and learning what my body is capable of handling. But more than anything, the inner confidence that I have built from this latest step in my fitness journey has helped me in all facets of my life and continues to surprise me on an almost daily basis.
Can Your Vagina Actually Be Depressed? The Answer Is Yes
There has been a lot of research that links regular sex to better health. But did you know your vagina can actually become depressed? Is it even fair to call a vagina or vulva depressed? You'd be surprised. It's a condition called vulvodynia, and if you haven't heard of it, you're about to!
What Is Vulvodynia?
"Vulvodynia is chronic pain in the vulva area that doesn't have any clear, identifiable cause. It is described as itchiness, rawness, irritation, and/or stabbing pain," Kristie Overstreet, PhD, clinical sexologist and psychotherapist, told POPSUGAR. "The pain varies in location, severity, and consistency among women."
Pain can manifest in various areas of the vulva, which is the entire external portion of the female genitalia, including the labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal and urethral openings. It can either be generalized over the entirety or localized to specific places. The pain can make sex, inserting a tampon, riding a bike, or even wearing tight pants excruciatingly painful.
While pain is a symptom of vulvodynia, the condition is considered to be psychologically caused, much like depression.
How Common Is It?
Vulvodynia is more widespread than you would think. Studies show that one in every six women experiences vulvodynia at some point in her life. Dr. Overstreet also said it's important to note that this condition is not linked to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
How Is It Like Depression?
Depression is a mental disorder that affects nearly 16 million adults in the US and is caused by a variety of factors, many having to do with brain chemistry. While it manifests itself with different symptoms, vulvodynia is also psychologically caused.
Much like depression, vulvodynia is a finicky condition that puzzles both those it affects and those who treat it. Dr. Sherry A. Ross, OB-GYN, women's health expert and author of She-ology, told POPSUGAR that "vulvodynia is a confusing and frustrating medical condition for both the healthcare provider and patient. Emotional and psychological support goes hand in hand with medical treatment options."
The road to discovering one's vulvodynia is eerily similar to that of those who experience depression. "Many women go through months or years of suffering before they find a provider who gives them a correct diagnosis. They may experience shame, difficulty with sex, painful sex, frustration, depression, and anxiety due to the effects of this condition. The majority of healthcare providers do not understand or correctly diagnosis vulvodynia. These providers often dismiss the pain or don't provide treatment options for women who are suffering," explained Dr. Ross.
Can It Be Treated?
There is no treatment specifically for vulvodynia, and anything that is used is still pretty experimental. But due to the highly intrinsic connection between the vagina and brain, vulvodynia is often treated with antidepressants and other forms of therapy to adjust the serotonin levels in the brain rather than to address the painful symptoms themselves. Any course of treatment is individualized based on the person's experience with the condition.
Why Is This Condition Stigmatized?
Dr. Ross told POPSUGAR that, much like with more common mental illnesses like depression and anxiety, women find it extremely difficult to discuss their vulvodynia for fear of being stigmatized. Many don't want to admit there is anything wrong, so they won't be broken or unlovable, which is especially troubling since, according to Dr. Ross, "vulvodynia can be ongoing and lifelong, disrupting intimacy, personal relationships, and daily life activities."
Stranger Things: Here's How Eleven Probably Fits Into Season 2
When Stranger Things decided to drop the trailer for season two at Comic-Con over the Summer, it not only gave us a glimpse at how Will is coping with life post-Demogorgon (spoiler alert: not well), the gang rocking some sweet Ghostbusters costumes, and the terrifying new monster invading Hawkins, IN, but also an answer as to whether or not Eleven is lost for good in the Upside Down. The good news? She's coming back! The bad news? It might take her a while.
As we see in the trailer, Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) is stuck in the Upside Down version of Hawkins High School, where she defeats the Demogorgon at the end of season one. As her friends call out to her from the other side, she wakes up, walks down a hallway, and sticks her hand through one of those sticky portals everyone is always crawling through in the first season. With the exception of knowing she's 1.) alive, and 2.) will likely join her friends if she can get the rest of her body through all that goop, there's not much else to go off of. We do have a sneaking suspicion that her reappearance won't happen until a few episodes into season two, though, given the new character who's joining Eleven's group in her absence and the fact Brown has a few high-profile film projects lined up.
For what it's worth, Brown assured Deadline that season two will be a wild ride. "I think the show has pivotal moments, things that fans will not expect," she teased. "These episodes will definitely give people a great season - a binge-worthy season, for sure. It's very, very crazy, honestly." We'll all find out for sure when Stranger Things returns on Oct. 27!
The Results Speak For Themselves at Orangetheory Fitness
You've heard about it. You know that the bright colors and challenging workouts have members singing its praises while sweating their way to results. Maybe you've even thought about trying the majorly successful fitness franchise. But if you haven't given Orangetheory Fitness (OTF) and its hour-long, heart-rate-based HIIT workouts your physical attention yet, these impressive fitness transformations will push you through the door.
The extended fat burning of the OTF training principle has made it possible for members to actualize some pretty amazing results. Their stories and their before-and-after photos are not only inspiring but worth celebrating!
50 Game of Thrones Characters You Could Be This Halloween
Game of Thrones is on hiatus, but you can bet that it's still going to be hot for Halloween. The fantasy series's many characters provide a ton of costume inspiration, from the dignified (Daenerys) to the downright creepy (the white walkers). Click through to check out the many Game of Thrones-inspired ways you can dress up this Halloween!
How Scary Is American Horror Story: Cult? Depends on What Scares You
Warning: light spoilers (and scary images) for American Horror Story: Cult lurk below.
Turn on all the lights: we're on the cusp of another exciting season of American Horror Story. The seventh installment of the iconic series hits TV screens on Sept. 5, and we're about to be plunged into a world of cults, clowns, bees, and serious paranoia. If you're a die-hard horror fan who's dead inside (like me!), then there's no question: you're going to watch the sh*t out of Cult. However, if you're on the fence about horror and have an undeniable curiosity about the new season, you're probably wondering if you can stomach it. I hate to tell you this, but the answer is probably no.
This season of AHS gets under your skin in more ways than one, and it exploits some of the most basic fears in the horror genre. The first and most obvious fear is clowns. In the show, main character Ally (Sarah Paulson) suffers from coulrophobia, which is an irrational fear of the "fun" circus performers. Actually, though, it's pretty common to fear clowns. That's why It, with its terrifying Pennywise the Clown, is one of the most terrifying stories ever (and why people are freaking out over the very realistic remake).
And the thing is, there are a lot of clowns on this show. We see the return of Twisty and his mangled face from Freak Show. In addition, there are a bunch of other creepy clowns. They're a groups of miscreants who may be hallucinations of a very rattled Ally, but they seem to also be a very real group of troublemakers who are terrorizing families all over town.
If the clowns don't get you, the home invasion scenarios will. Cult has a pretty astounding way of building tension and terror into a lot of its scenes, especially when a character is alone. In the premiere, Ally has a traumatic experience in a grocery store, but then it seems to follow her home. In the vein of The Strangers and Hush and other such terrifying in-home horrors, a lot of Cult's worst sequences take place in the safety of residential homes. And this isn't just silly break-ins. Citizens are getting ambushed in bed. Some are getting murdered. If you're getting the urge to lock your door right now, you might want to skip.
So, let's say you can handle the clowns and the home invaders. Can you deal with the tiny holes? Ally's other huge mental hurdle is trypophobia, which is basically a fear of tiny clusters of holes. In the show, Ally can't even look at a piece of coral in the office of Dr. Vincent (Cheyenne Jackson). During one particular gross hallucination, her biscuit is suddenly filled with holes, and blood oozes out of all the pores. It's enough to make anyone squirm, let alone someone who's actually disgusted by the phenomenon.
The thing about these three huge aspects of terror on Cult is that they all intermix. After all, it's the group of clowns that does most of the home invading. The trypophobia may manifest in miscellaneous ways, as we mentioned above, but one of the clowns literally has a face full of tiny holes. All of these big fears lump into one gargantuan sense of unrest. In every scene, anything could manifest that could set you off and really have you gripping your seat cushion. Or, you know, maybe you'll just be bombarded with all three. Watch American Horror Story: Cult if you dare, but my distinct sense as a horror fan who's dead inside is that it's pretty damn scary.
Daenerys Targaryen Is So Committed to Good Hair, She Keeps It Styled During Sex
One of the most talked-about moments during the season seven finale of Game of Thrones was when Daenerys Targaryen and Jon Snow finally got in bed together. Some celebrated the union, especially after episodes of sexual tension building up. Others couldn't get over the fact they're technically related. I, on the other hand, couldn't help but notice one thing during that scene: Daenerys's hair, which remained in its intricate, braided half-updo throughout the deed.
Like, HOW? I understand that in the heat of the moment, you wouldn't spend a full hour unraveling your hair, but, damn, is Khaleesi committed to her braids. She even started out on top - a surefire way to preserve the hairstyle (that is, until Jon flipped her over. And at that point, you are past the point of giving f*cks about your hair, TBH).
I mean, at least he handles her hair with care. The careful caresses around her plaits speak volumes about the kind of guy Jon Snow is.
Though, should we really be surprised from the man who has been proven a fan of the half updo on himself?
Slow Cook Your Way to a Better Morning!
It's no surprise that moms love a great slow cooker meal - the "throw it in and go about your day (or night)" appliance seems like it was custom-made to feed busy families. While a Crock-Pot may conjure up images of soups and casseroles for cold Winter nights, it's also an easy way to whip up a warm breakfast to feed a crowd. With just a little bit of night-before prep work, these nine morning meal ideas will speed up your a.m. routine and send your kids off to school satisfied and ready to start the day!
Kaitlyn Is Down 78 Pounds - 53 Just From Weightlifting
After a traumatic breakup from a long-term partner, Kaitlyn turned to food as a comfort and eventually hit her highest weight at 225 pounds. But things took a turn when she used exercise as a solace for depression. The Arizona-based engineer picked up weightlifting and almost immediately noticed the results on her body, but also on her mood and her brain. Her tips are practical and positive, and show just how much we can be capable of when we keep working hard and set goals.
Kaitlyn: Before
POPSUGAR: What made you decide to start your weight-loss journey?
Kaitlyn van Brunschot: I was fresh out of a six-and-a-half-year relationship and felt completely lost. I initially started my journey with weightlifting just to fill my time. Very quickly I began to realize that lifting weights made me feel great! It gave me so much confidence, so I just kept doing it. It's funny how quickly you can change, because it's been almost a year now and I have such a passion for fitness. I never thought I'd be the person that I am today!
I gained a lot of weight when my partner cheated on me. I turned to food to feel better about myself. I used food as a means of reward to feel better. Couple that with a relatively sedentary lifestyle and you've got a perfect recipe for weight gain!
PS: What drew you to weightlifting specifically?
KV: I started lifting weights because cardio always left me feeling drained. So I tried weightlifting! I was fortunate enough to have a good friend show me how to do deadlifts and squats, and that's all I did for months. Slowly I started branching out and trying new things.
"Once you trust yourself and have faith in your own abilities, then everything will fall into place!"
I have had this idea that I needed to diet or work out since I was 12 years old. That's more than half of my life! I kept thinking to myself that I'll dedicate my time to it later. After next semester. After the Summer. After I get my bachelor's degree. Little did I realize that I was just putting off my efforts for years. I've tried swimming, DVD programs, and plain old cardio. None of them worked because I wasn't ready for the lifestyle change, nor did I believe in myself. I've learned that just having the belief that you can change is oftentimes the biggest barrier to achieving your goals. Once you trust yourself and have faith in your own abilities, then everything will fall into place!
I think another huge thing is that I always got so stressed about making immediate lifestyle changes. I wouldn't just start working out; I would try to go vegan and start home-cooking and meal prepping and start working out all at the same time. I know now that those extreme changes are not helpful. It really does take baby steps when it comes to making lifestyle changes!
PS: What's your favorite way to work out?
KV: I am beyond passionate about lifting weights! It's such a fun and challenging way to achieve your fitness goals! Lifting has boosted my confidence more than I thought possible. I really love when I can work out with friends who help push me to try harder and lift heavier. Oftentimes that's enough for me to beat a personal record!
PS: What's your weekly exercise schedule?
KV: When I first started, I was working out once a week for about a month or two. Then I started feeling so good every time after I worked out. So I started going two to three times a week for a few more months. After that, I really started noticing my progress and was feeling so good about myself so I started going almost every day. For the last five months, I literally go six times a week. It's not a chore or a punishment for me; it is my passion. I feel so blessed to have discovered weightlifting! It makes you feel so capable and strong and those feelings fuel my passion!
It took me just under a year, but I went from just doing a 10-minute cardio warmup followed by deadlifts and squats every day to hitting every muscle group each week!
Kaitlyn: After
PS: How do you keep workouts exciting?
KV: Work out with friends! Take lots of before and after photos and enjoy your progress! Listen to your new favorite song only when you're working out (my mom told me this one and trust me, it works!). I have made so many friends at my gym, and being naturally outgoing, it helps when I get to work out with them.
PS: How much weight have you lost?
KV: I've lost 78 pounds! The first 25 pounds I lost were just from getting off of birth control, but the rest was all from weightlifting! I went from 225 at my heaviest recorded weight (but I can almost guarantee I was heavier; I just avoided the scale!) to 148 pounds right now.
PS: What was the first big difference, other than the number on the scale, that really made you feel proud and excited?
KV: Being able to fit into clothes that I never thought I'd fit into again. It's a surreal feeling. I vividly recall trying on a dress again that hadn't fit in years and finding that it was way too big. I was drowning in it. And I just looked at myself in the mirror and broke down in tears. I was so damn proud of myself; never did I imagine I would ever lose weight and get healthier. I never believed in myself until that moment. That was a very cathartic moment for me!
PS: How do you track your weight loss?
KV: I used MyFitnessPal to track my food and my weight. Although, when I started working out, I didn't adjust my diet at all and was still eating out a lot, so I didn't always track my food because I felt guilty. And weirdly enough I use Instagram a LOT to track my progress. I post a lot of before and after photos and the support I receive on there is a phenomenal source of extra motivation for me!
PS: What's a typical day of meals and snacks?
KV: I have been eating Oats Overnight, which is a prepackaged high-protein oatmeal, every morning for breakfast (I found them through Instagram!), and I usually eat chicken breast and frozen veggies for lunch. I don't always have time to grill up the chicken myself, so I get the rotisserie chickens or roast turkey breast from Safeway or Costco! Then I'll have Chipotle or a homemade acai bowl for dinner after a good workout session!
I snack on corn thins and rice cakes a lot at work. I like to mindlessly snack when I'm writing code and working on software and they're pretty guilt-free and super filling! I also like to snack on protein granola from Sprouts or fresh blueberries.
PS: Do you count calories?
KV: I do on occasion. I used to do it religiously, but after six to seven months of tracking, I've gotten a pretty good idea about what I'm putting in my body. I eat intuitively now and don't feel as stressed when it comes to tracking my calories. It's easy to get caught up in trying to eat as little as possible, but it's just not worth it. I'm probably sitting at around 1,800 calories a day, but I eat pretty clean, so it's a lot of protein!
Kaitlyn: Before and After
PS: What are the healthy staples that are always in your fridge?
KV: Almond milk and blueberries! As far as nonfridge items go, I always have frozen acai purée in my freezer and bananas and granola on my counter. Also, I don't think I could survive without my peanut butter powder at this point. I put it in every shake I make!
PS: How do you strategize for meals out?
KV: I don't anymore! I don't crave fast food, so when I do go out I just listen to my body. I used to eat until I was so full that I felt ill and bloated. I don't do that anymore; instead I like to actually enjoy the food I'm eating! The nice thing about weightlifting is that if you eat more food, it just means you're fueling your body more!
"I just looked at myself in the mirror and broke down in tears. I was so damn proud of myself."
PS: Do you use a fitness tracker?
KV: I use a Fitbit Charge HR 2. It helps me keep track of my heart rate, which I love when I'm working out!
PS: What role did weightlifting play in your journey? Would you recommend it?
KV: I literally recommend weightlifting to all my friends! Just for the fact that it makes you feel so great about yourself!
PS: What advice do you have for anyone starting out on a weight-loss journey?
KV: Please let yourself celebrate the little victories, like ordering a medium instead of a large meal at a fast-food restaurant! It's such a slow process, but it is absolutely worth it! Find something physical that you love and let yourself develop a passion for it. Let it become more than a temporary thing to lose weight. If you can find something that can be a lifelong hobby, then you're going to go so far!
8 Haunted Houses and Hotels in Latin America
Depending on who you ask, exploring a haunted house is either the best or worst way to spend Halloween. The elements of reality that are intertwined with the myth and folklore around these homes and hotels make for an eerie experience. This list includes everything from hauntings that were incited by actual, real-life events to some pegged solely on myths that have continued over time. Either way, the spots are totally spooky.
Dancing With the Stars: Here's Who Is Joining the Season 25 Cast
Dancing With the Stars has added even more celebrities to its lineup for this season. As the dance competition gets ready to celebrate a huge milestone with season 25, they are turning the nostalgia up a notch with some of your favorite stars from the early 2000s. Not only is a 98 Degrees boy-band member joining the cast, but one of your favorite sitcom stars will be hitting the ballroom floor as well. While ABC doesn't officially reveal the full lineup until Sept. 6, see who has reportedly joined the cast ahead.
Louis Tomlinson Is Hot and Can Sing - What More Do You Need?
It's time to get familiar with Louis Tomlinson. The singer, formerly of One Direction fame and currently a solo star, has been making the rounds to promote his latest single with Bebe Rexha, "Back to You," and I personally am so pleased with the direction his career is going in. As someone who has been just a bit of a fan for just a bit of time, I have always known Louis is talented, but I've also never been able to deny how ridiculously attractive he is. From the tips of his quiff to the bottom of his often-bare feet, Louis is one hot Brit everyone should take note of. To further convince you, keep reading for just a smattering of his most attractive shots.
A Costco Food Court Employee Reveals They Miss That Beloved Berry Smoothie, Too
A current Costco food court employee recently shared some insights about the members-only warehouse club with a cult-like following. In an Ask Me Anything session on Reddit, the employee spilled details about the food court's most popular menu item, the excessive use of pizza oil, and how to get the freshest churro. (Hint: all you have to do is ask!) Ahead, read all of the employee's most interesting tidbits and learnings.
No surprises here: the hot dogs are really popular.
When asked about the most popular menu item, the employee said the affordable hot dog, adding, "There's something about a buck fifty that people really love."
There's a reason the berry smoothie was replaced.
When the berry smoothie was recently replaced by a different fruit smoothie, customers had questions. According to the employee, the fruit smoothie replaced the berry smoothie after it performed well in various locations. "Corporate thought the benefits outweighed the negatives in this situation. The new smoothie has a lot of better benefits in it - less sugar, less calories, nothing but real fruit and fruit juice, and four servings of fruit in each smoothie," the employee explained. That being said, the berry smoothie was preferred by many customers and employees.
The chocolate-dipped ice cream bar might never come back.
Surprisingly, the employee said Costco frequently receives questions about the discontinued chocolate-dipped ice cream bar with almonds. Unfortunately, it might never come back. The employee said, "I think it might have been too expensive for the amount we give. That's what happened with gelato anyway."
Management does not want employees to skimp on pizza oil.
Though this employee personally enjoys the food court's many menu items, what he or she does find concerning is the amount of oil used in making the pizza. How much oil? "Too much," the employee said. Additionally, upper management monitors employees to make sure they are following the oil requirements. "When you don't use the corporate requested amount because you think it's too much and corporate notices? You use more oil to avoid being in trouble. Some managers overcompensate and use a quarter cup of oil+ when making them."
The chicken bake recipe is delicious but pretty damn simple.
The secret to the coveted chicken bake is really just a lot of pizza dough. In addition to flattening out a good amount of pizza dough, employees must then mix together chicken breast strips, mozzarella cheese, bacon, and caesar dressing. Lastly, the savory ingredients are rolled up into the pizza dough.
You can order the chicken bake without bacon - but there's a catch.
If you'd like to order a Costco chicken bake without bacon, you might need to plan ahead. Employees begin making the chicken bake earlier in the day when they're less busy. Therefore, you'd have to catch them early. The employee explained, "Sometimes the employees are running little bit late and they'll make them during the day, but you'd have to catch them before they mix the cheese and bacon. Which is hard to do," adding, "You could always call ahead a day and ask. I'm sure they'd oblige."
Employees don't get a discount.
Sadly, employees are not treated to a discount at the Costco food court. They do, however, receive a free executive membership, priced at $120 per year. We'd say that's a pretty great perk.
When in doubt, ask for a new churro.
Though the churros are supposed to always be hot and freshly made, customers can ask for a new churro if they want to make sure they're getting the best quality. The employee said, "I learn to check when we're running low on churros and wait for a new pan to come out," adding, "I recommend checking on them right before you shop and seeing the changes when you come back. My favorite is when they run out of churros and you wait for five minutes or so, then when they pull them off the pan, it is a hundred percent brand new."
The cheese pizza is made with love . . . and these two cheeses.
When asked what makes the cheese pizza taste so good, the employee said, "It's made with love." Another Reddit user who claims to be a former employee also shared some additional details: "I don't know what's in the sauce, it came to us prepared, as did the cheese mix . . . I know it was like 85 percent mozzarella and 15 percent provolone when I worked there."
This Haunting Figure Skating Routine Makes You Feel the Music in Your Bones
When it comes to rapidly flinging yourself across sheets of ice with actual bladed weapons strapped to your feet - or, as people involved in the challenging sport like to call it, figure skating - it's vital to have a partner you can trust with your life. And it's clear that French pair skaters Vanessa James and Morgan Ciprés have precisely that sort of bond, because during the International Skating Union's World Team Trophy 2017 competition in Tokyo, Japan, the duo delivered a jaw-dropping performance that has the internet buzzing.
Set to Disturbed's rendition of Simon & Garfunkel's classic hit "The Sound of Silence," the pair's graceful movements and impressive stunts have the effect of making you feel the music in your bones.
Starting around the 1:50 mark, the gorgeous routine takes a spin (literally) that will give you chills. As one video commenter so appropriately put it, "Some couples skate to music, this couple became the music. Outstanding!" James and Ciprés delivered a stunning performance that involved him legitimately throwing her across the ice, and their perfectly synced movements left audiences gasping and standing to applaud. Give it a watch for yourself, because there's a reason this video is quickly going viral on Facebook.
This Is What 1 Day of My Meals Looks Like on Weight Watchers
My favorite thing about Weight Watchers is that I can still eat the same foods as I always have. I may have to eat a little bit less of them and space out the junk with a bunch of veggies in between, but I still eat a lot of ice cream. And cheese. I will always eat a lot of cheese.
To prove that eating on Weight Watchers is pretty similar to eating not on Weight Watchers, I documented an entire day of what I eat. Obviously I vary it from day to day, but this is a pretty typical day for me. On Weight Watchers, I get 30 Smart Points per day to eat, and this day came out to exactly 30. I also get 42 weekly points that I can use in case I really wanted that extra scoop of ice cream and had already hit my 30 points for the day. Not that that ever happens to me . . . but the point system provides a lot of flexibility so you can really tailor it to what you want to eat.
While Weight Watchers doesn't count anything beyond points, it is obviously not recommended to ignore other nutritional information and eat a giant 30-point meal in a day and not eat anything else. For one, you won't accomplish much doing that because you'll be hungry other times during the day and possibly screw up the plan by eating more than you really want to. It also isn't sustainable in the long run, so it's important to understand how to mix your favorite not-so-healthy foods in small portions with a lot of 0-point options (almost all fruits and veggies!) to help fill you up.
Weight Watchers, for me, has been a lot of trial and error with balancing my meals to find the right blend of higher- and lower-calorie foods that will keep me full and still keep me on the path to losing weight. And of course with any healthy-eating plan, it's OK if you have a bad day - you learn from it and do better tomorrow.
Why FP and Alice Are the OG Jughead and Betty on Riverdale
When it comes to relationships on Riverdale, none can hold a candle to Betty and Jughead's. They're insanely adorable, they support each other through difficult times, and they're the perfect mix of dark and light. As my OTP, I would never want anything to jeopardize their relationship, but even I can't deny the insane chemistry between their parents.
I know it's crazy to ship FP and Alice (Falice?), but isn't crazy what this show is all about? Trust me, I tried my best not to when watching them partake in playful batter after Jughead's birthday party and when they give each other death stares from across the table before the homecoming dance, but the final straw was when actress Mädchen Amick posted a selfie of her and Skeet Ulrich filming season two, writing, "#Riverdale fans, be careful what you wish for 😘." Seriously, who can resist that?
FP and Alice's sexual tension aside, it's clear their characters have a past that will only be explored more in coming episodes. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if the father of Alice's mysterious son is actually FP, but that's a completely different story. Sure, it would be awkward for Bughead to have their parents date, but if Dan and Serena can make it work, why can't they? Look back at these FP and Alice moments from last season and get ready to set sail with this ship.
Why FP and Alice Are the OG Jughead and Betty on Riverdale
When it comes to relationships on Riverdale, none can hold a candle to Betty and Jughead's. They're insanely adorable, they support each other through difficult times, and they're the perfect mix of dark and light. As my OTP, I would never want anything to jeopardize their relationship, but even I can't deny the insane chemistry between their parents.
I know it's crazy to ship FP and Alice (Falice?), but isn't crazy what this show is all about? Trust me, I tried my best not to when watching them partake in playful batter after Jughead's birthday party and when they give each other death stares from across the table before the homecoming dance, but the final straw was when actress Mädchen Amick posted a selfie of her and Skeet Ulrich filming season two, writing, "#Riverdale fans, be careful what you wish for 😘." Seriously, who can resist that?
FP and Alice's sexual tension aside, it's clear their characters have a past that will only be explored more in coming episodes. Honestly, I wouldn't be surprised if the father of Alice's mysterious son is actually FP, but that's a completely different story. Sure, it would be awkward for Bughead to have their parents date, but if Dan and Serena can make it work, why can't they? Look back at these FP and Alice moments from last season and get ready to set sail with this ship.
This Epic, Emotional Video Proves That Jon Snow Is Destined For the Iron Throne
No matter the weather outside your window, prepare to get goosebumps when you press "play" on this epic fan-made video about Game of Thrones' Jon Snow. In less than four minutes, the emotional recap (made by TheGaroStudios) summarizes the heroic saga that is Jon's life, from before his birth up until becoming King in the North; and what's more, the video proves exactly why Jon should sit on the Iron Throne at the show's end.
By perfectly contrasting Jon and his father, Rhaegar, the video proves that the young leader is destined for greatness . . . and highlights the sacrifices it's taken to keep him safe. Trust us on this one and give the video a watch. Sure, you'll cry - but you'll also feel hopeful, inspired, and just plain proud of how far Jon has come.
Why Kat Von D Calls the Saint + Sinner Palette "My Next Go-To"
After almost a year of teases, Kat Von D Beauty's much-anticipated Saint + Sinner Eyeshadow Palette finally has a release date . . . sort of. During a YouTube Q&A, Kat Von D herself sat down to answer fan questions over Instagram. The topics ranged from "What books are you currently reading?" (Letting Go: The Pathway to Surrendering by David R. Hawkins) to "What advice would you give to someone who really wants to go vegan but loves cheese?" (look up sad animal videos on YouTube to quell your cravings). But it was the question Kat saved for last that truly was the best: "When will the Saint + Sinner Palette finally be released?!"
"Don't be sad!" Kat told fans in the video. "It's all about making sure that everything is super amazing for you guys before it gets in your hands." As for the date, Kat was hesitant to give specifics, but she said it "should launch for holiday." So basically, in a few months, we'll all have the cathedral-inspired work-of-art palette we've been waiting for.
But Kat didn't want to make us wait too long to see close-ups of the palette's prototype, which she says will be her "next go-to." According to Kat, "It has everything you need."
The colors are broken down into two themes. The Saint side is full of soft, subtle hues, and Sinner has the more dynamic, popping ones. As previously reported, this collection was inspired by how stained-glass windows reflect light, so we're hoping it will make us equally as shimmering just in time for holiday party season.
Hey, Vegans! Complete-Protein Meals Under 400 Calories
If you want gorgeous, radiant locks or to heal fast from that pulled hammy after dropping into a split, then protein is a must. Every cell, tissue, and organ in our bodies is made up of protein, so getting your fill is important when it comes to building and repairing your cells. Protein is made up of amino acids, 12 of which are produced by the body. The other nine, called essential amino acids, must be obtained from our diet. Complete proteins contain all nine, and since red meat, poultry, seafood, eggs, and dairy are complete proteins, those who eat meat and milk are in the clear. If you're avoiding animal products, then you'll need to eat plant-based complete proteins and combinations of foods to make up the difference.
While it isn't necessary to eat complete proteins at the same meal - you can eat beans for lunch and rice for dinner - if you're a busy vegetarian, you'll find it easier to enjoy them together. This dish of Mexican tempeh with black beans and quinoa is a perfect example of a complete protein as it contains both legumes and whole grains. Keep reading for more vegan meal ideas that contain complete proteins - all under 400 calories.
Emotional Decluttering Is a Thing, So I Tried It - and You Should, Too
We've read our fair share of advice about how important it is to declutter your home and office. The more organized your space is, the more likely you are to feel clear-headed and optimistic about your life in general. What if the same were true for your emotional health, though? What if we practiced emotional decluttering in order to eject all the personal ties that bog us down and prevent us from moving forward?
I first encountered the idea of emotional decluttering two years ago, when I was struggling to maintain happy relationships with my mother and my then-boyfriend (who was about to become my ex). In both camps there was quite a bit of toxicity happening, but both people had been in my life for so long that it was hard for me to recognize this fact.
I worked with a therapist, as well as a couple of energy healers (I know, very hippie of me), all of whom gave me practices to cut emotional ties with people in my life who were exacerbating my stress and anxiety. These exercises also gave me the chance to clear out negative emotions or feelings that were stopping me from acting positively in the world.
It all sounded a bit hogwash to me at first, kind of like the wonky stuff you read in cheap self-help books. It wasn't long, though, before I realized that emotionally decluttering made a huge difference . . . mentally, emotionally, and even physically.
The concept of emotional decluttering is built on the belief that we hold onto relationships or experiences in our minds long after they've actually happened or ended, much like we simply can't throw away that drawer full of college memorabilia that doesn't really hold any value at the end of the day. After doing this decluttering work over the course of a few months, I realized that I had been holding onto some past friendships that ended badly, as well as romantic relationships that never worked out. I was also holding onto a lot of anger toward my mother for events that transpired in our family and nearly broke us all apart.
I started with something called emotional cord cutting. It's when you close your eyes and picture yourself in a bright, open field. You then imagine the person you can't stop thinking about, or you're holding a grudge toward, walking onto the field and facing you. Then you envision a ray of light from above literally cutting through the cord that is connecting you and this person. One therapist even told me you can picture yourself pulling out the cord from your belly button and removing all the harmful residue that's leftover from the relationship.
In addition to this exercise, I would journal daily, meditate, and delete people from my social media accounts who were causing me to feel stress, rather than bringing me joy. Within a couple of months I could feel a significant shift in my attitude. I felt lighter and clearer than I ever did before. I saw how much time I used to waste thinking about people who weren't adding value to my life, and I came out the other side more confident, more forward-thinking, and more open to establishing healthier relationships with people around me. I swear I even woke up in the morning with more energy.
For anyone who wants to hit the reset button in their life, I highly recommend giving emotional decluttering a shot. You could experience a boost of positivity in your life, and it might help you move past hurtful experiences you've endured recently. You definitely have nothing to lose by trying it.
Every Question You Have About DACA, Answered
On Sept. 5, the White House is expected to hand down a decision that could affect hundreds of thousands of young immigrants, when President Donald Trump announces his decision on whether he will continue the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program.
It's no wonder there is widespread concern that Trump will choose to terminate the program. Not only did he run on a platform that suggested American was under threat by "bad hombres" who needed to be kept out by a border wall, but since taking office, his institution of a travel ban and his pardoning of former Sheriff Joe Arpaio have turned that anti-immigrant rhetoric into real action. So what, exactly, does DACA provide for young immigrants and why does it matter? Read on for answers.
What is DACA and What Does it Do?
DACA was created under President Obama via executive order in 2012 as a means to protect people who were brought into the country illegally as children.
DACA status can be requested by people who fulfill a number of specific guidelines, which include coming to America before your sixteenth birthday, being enrolled in or having graduated from school, and being free of any felony or misdemeanor offenses, and grants "deferred action" from US Citizenship and Immigration Services actions like deportation.
Those who have been granted DACA status are eligible for two-year renewable employment permits, and are given social security numbers and access to a driver's license in some states. DACA is only available to those who qualify for the program and it largely protects "DREAMers," immigrants of similar status who would have been protected by the Development, Relief and Education for Alien Minors (DREAM) Act, which was introduced to Congress in 2001. The DREAM Act failed to pass but DACA's introduction in 2012 offered certain protections and advantages to would-be DREAMers.
The program is estimated to protect 800,000 young people and has been incredibly successful, as 91 percent of DACA recipients are currently employed. DACA also boosted recipients' income and economic impact along with pursuit of higher education.
Advocates point to the fact that DACA is widely supported by voters on both sides of the aisle as evidence it should be continued. "DACA has widespread public support even among Trump Supporters," Rocio Inclán, director at the Center for Social Justice at the National Education Association (NEA), tells POPSUGAR. "Seventy-eight percent of voters support giving DREAMers the chance to stay in the US permanently – and that includes 73 percent of Trump voters."
Why Do Some People Want the Program to End?
Since President Trump won the 2016 election, the ending of DACA has been viewed as another potential means to advance his strict immigration policies.
Ignacia Rodriguez, policy advocate at the National Immigration Law Center, tells POPSUGAR that while President Trump has assured DREAMers that they had nothing to worry about, he also ran a campaign that suggested otherwise. "There are people out there who disapprove of the program, who believe it's beyond the power of the Executive Branch to have such a program in place," Rodriguez says. "Others have anti-immigrant sentiments."
Despite that widespread support, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton (and 10 Republican officials from other states) sent a letter to Attorney General Jeff Sessions saying that they will sue the administration if they don't end DACA by Sept. 5 as a means of taking a harder line on immigration.
Sessions has regarded that effort positively, telling Fox & Friends that he likes that states are holding the federal government accountable. The Attorney General's positive support of states suing the Trump administration has prompted the ACLU to investigate if this is a coordinated effort by the administration - a concern compounded by Sessions saying DREAMers and anyone in the United States unlawfully are "subject to being deported."
What Are the Chances DACA Will Be Discontinued?
"The likelihood of these protections ending or staying in place are not certain, no matter the rumors floating around," Sheridan Aguirre, DACA recipient and field communications manager at United We Dream, tells POPSUGAR. "Trump ultimately is the deciding hand on whether to strip away the legal status of 800,000 youth and make them deportable; or keep the program in place and allow families to remain together, and cities and businesses continue to see a positive impact because of their ability to be integrated and thrive."
Similarly, lawmakers in the Congressional Hispanic Caucus are concerned with Jeff Sessions's involvement in this decision and have little faith that he will protect the program noting that, if the decision is up to him, "DACA would be ended."
Yet many are standing up for DACA to urge Trump to make the right choice: 1,850 bipartisan leaders, around 100 law professors, and 20 Attorneys General have formally and publicly expressed concern and support of DACA.
What Will Happen if the Program Ends?
If Trump chooses to terminate the DACA program, the immigration status of nearly a million DACA recipients will be in limbo.
"DACA could be terminated outright or be 'sunset,' which means recipients would continue to be protected from deportation and authorized to work, drive, etc. through the end of their expiration date," Aguirre explains. But if it were ended completely? "Immigrant youth would be fired from their jobs, be at risk of losing their homes and apartments, and in most states, unable to drive or access affordable higher education."
For educators and students, DACA's disappearance would mean peers would be removed. Inclán of the NEA explains: "The contributions of our youth who have built their lives and livelihoods here is intensely personal to our three million educators and students and communities they serve – and of course our educators who are themselves DACA recipients."
Beyond the human rights issues at stake, the economy would take a substantial hit as DREAMers are poised to contribute an estimated $433.4 billion to the gross domestic product over the next decade. As for personal cost, those who have recently applied for DACA, or who are seeking renewal, risk losing the nearly $500 required to apply for the program.
If the program does end, Aguirre notes that this would be an opportunity for local elected officials to implement policies to protect immigrant families. Families can also take matters into their own hands. "This means learning their rights in case they confront ICE, Border Patrol, or local police acting as deportation agents," Aguirre says. "Prepare power of attorney forms in order to transfer custody of children as a precaution; and put aside savings as needed."
Rodriguez also notes that the end of DACA doesn't mean all is lost, as the added attention to these issues means many organizations inside and outside of immigration activism "want to fight back and do something."
"The fight over DACA may end but it's only the beginning," Rodriguez says. "There will continue to be a push and a fight to ensure that this population is protected."
This Epic, Emotional Video Proves That Jon Snow Is Destined For the Iron Throne
No matter the weather outside your window, prepare to get goosebumps when you press "play" on this epic fan-made video about Game of Thrones' Jon Snow. In less than four minutes, the emotional recap (made by TheGaroStudios) summarizes the heroic saga that is Jon's life, from before his birth up until becoming King in the North; and what's more, the video proves exactly why Jon should sit on the Iron Throne at the show's end.
By perfectly contrasting Jon and his father, Rhaegar, the video proves that the young leader is destined for greatness . . . and highlights the sacrifices it's taken to keep him safe. Trust us on this one and give the video a watch. Sure, you'll cry - but you'll also feel hopeful, inspired, and just plain proud of how far Jon has come.
20 Reasons Avocado Toast Is the Sexiest Snack on the Planet
If avocado toast isn't in your weekly routine, this list of recipes will convince you otherwise. Though nothing beats the classic toast (with salt and pepper or a dash of hot sauce), you'll quickly be ready to graduate onto other more complex toasts, including those topped with poached eggs, ahi tuna, and even gorgonzola cheese.
25 September Beauty Launches We Already Love - and You Should, Too!
September is basically Jan. 1 for beauty-lovers. We use the new "school year" as a time to reset, dye our blond locks back to brunette, book facials to rejuvenate our sun-kissed skin, and buy lots of swag! Here, our editorial team has combed through the hottest Fall launches to pick out the heroes. We've already been loving and using them, and we hope you do, too. Read on!
5 New Characters You Should Get to Know Before Outlander Returns
We still have a couple weeks to go until Outlander finally returns for its third season in September, but thankfully we have a few big things to look forward to. In addition to shocking surprises that will blow your mind and more hot scenes between Claire and Jamie, the upcoming season is bringing in a handful of new and important characters. Remember that whole time jump business? Well, it means a few of our faves won't be returning (Fergus can't stay little forever, unfortunately). Luckily for all of us, the new additions to the storyline seem plenty interesting.
Elton John Singing "Candle in the Wind" at Diana's Funeral Will Always Break Our Hearts
It's been 20 years since Princess Diana tragically passed away in a car accident in Paris on Aug. 31, 1997, and it seems as though the world will never stop grieving for the princess it lost too soon. One of Diana's closest friends, Elton John, paid tribute to her in an extraspecial way all those years ago when he sang "Candle in the Wind" at her funeral.
The singer, who also shared a touching photo of himself and Diana on Thursday in honor of the anniversary, sang the heartbreaking and beautiful song in front of the 2,000 guests at her funeral at Westminster Abbey in London on Sept. 6, 1997. Elton originally wrote the song in 1973 as a tribute to Marilyn Monroe, who had died 11 years earlier, but he changed the lyrics to reflect the life of Princess Diana after her death. He has said over the years that he refuses to perform the song again unless specifically requested by Diana's sons, Prince William and Prince Harry.
35 Mind-Blowing Variations on Summer's Greatest Sweet (the S'more)
Gooey s'mores assembled fireside are near unbeatable, but for those times when a campfire or fireplace is out of reach, these s'mores-inspired treats will fill the void, and then some. We've rounded up 35 stellar alternatives, from Biscoff s'mores seven-layer bars to s'mores waffle sundaes to even ice cream modeled after the summertime treat.
Let It Bake! 16 Droolworthy Cakes Inspired by Disney's Frozen
When a film takes off as quickly as Frozen, you can bet little kids everywhere will be asking for birthday parties with it as the theme. With it's glistening ice castle, mountains of snow, and adorable characters - I mean, you can't beat Olaf and Sven as lovable characters - the entire movie lends itself to kiddie parties. So when it comes to the centerpiece of the party - the cake - mom's got to make a statement.
Whether mom's a baker and creates her Frozen confection from scratch (as Busy Philipps did) or heads to the bakery with her vision in mind, get inspired by these unbelievable cakes featuring Olaf, Sven, Elsa, and Anna in pure edible form.
The TV World Has Been Ripe With Beautifully NSFW Butts in 2017
Warning: naked male butts and some thrusting ahead.
This Summer, we were blessed with a new season of Game of Thrones. And while there are many aspects to be excited about when it comes to the HBO juggernaut, one particular highlight of the series seemed to round out our anticipation, so to speak. That's right, we were ready to see some butts. But then, we realized: oh, how limited our perspective has been! Oh, how foolish not to look to the hots stars of Insecure and other such eye-candy-filled TV shows! Westeros is not the only land ripe with peaches. Behold a few other choice butts from the year so far.
George Clooney Gushes Over Twins, Reveals Why He Gave Them "Normal" Names
George and Amal Clooney welcomed twins Alexander and Ella back in June, and now we're learning a lot more about them. The proud dad recently opened up about their personalities during a sit down with Entertainment Tonight for his latest project, Suburbicon. "[Alexander] is a thug already," George declared. "He's a moose! Literally, he just sits and he eats." As for Ella? George admits she's the total opposite of her twin brother. "She's very elegant, and all eyes," he gushed. "She looks like Amal, thank god."
George also revealed why he and Amal chose "normal" names for their kids - although there was that one time he joked about naming the twins after his tequila brand. "[We] didn't want to have really dumb names," he said. "We figured these kids are going to be looked at a lot and watched and [have their] every move sort of judged, and we wanted them to at least have a break with the names."
This isn't the first time the 56-year-old doting dad has opened up about fatherhood. George admitted to being on diaper duty and getting puked on frequently during an interview with the Associated Press. Sounds like George and Amal have their hands full with their two new bundles of joy!
Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem's Sweetest Pictures Together
Penélope Cruz and her husband, Javier Bardem, have been together for almost a decade, and even though they tend to stay hidden, we are in love with them. The two Spaniards started dating in 2007 after starring in Vicky Cristina Barcelona together. Besides starring in the Woody Allen-directed film, Penélope and Javier worked together in Jamón, Jamón, The Counselor, and their most recent, Loving Pablo, which is set to debut in September. The couple tied the knot in July 2010 and welcomed a son, Leo, a year later and a daughter, Luna, in 2013.
"She has what I call the loving blood. Passion for everything," Javier sweetly told GQ about his wife in May. "That's what I find attractive. There is beauty and there is being sexy. Penelope has both."
Bask in all of their glory and prepare to drool (just a bit) at how sexy of a couple they are by looking at their best red carpet moments.
5 New Characters You Should Get to Know Before Outlander Returns
We still have a couple weeks to go until Outlander finally returns for its third season in September, but thankfully we have a few big things to look forward to. In addition to shocking surprises that will blow your mind and more hot scenes between Claire and Jamie, the upcoming season is bringing in a handful of new and important characters. Remember that whole time jump business? Well, it means a few of our faves won't be returning (Fergus can't stay little forever, unfortunately). Luckily for all of us, the new additions to the storyline seem plenty interesting.
10 Summer Side Dishes You Never Knew You Could Make in an Instant Pot
There are arguably infinite recipes for the Instant Pot, and while it's common to turn to the pressure cooker for soups and meats, there's a whole world of side dishes for you to explore in your Instant Pot, particularly during the Summer when you want to keep cooking and its residual heat to a minimum.
Should You Be Worried About Your Beet-Red Face?
There's nothing like the feeling of getting all hot and sweaty from a good cardio workout. You feel amazing, full of energy, and all revved up on endorphins, so why do people keep asking if you're OK? You catch a glimpse of your sweaty self in the bathroom mirror, and the unnaturally, brilliantly red face staring back takes you by surprise, too. Wait - are you OK?
Your frighteningly scarlet skin may not look the prettiest, but it's no cause for alarm. It's actually just a sign that you're working hard and building up heat. When your body temperature begins to climb, you perspire to keep cool, but it also dilates the blood vessels in your skin to reduce your overall body temp. Your face turns red because warm, oxygenated blood rushes to the surface of your skin, which helps heat radiate off of it and prevents you from overheating.
Go ahead and continue exercising as long as you feel good and have no other symptoms. If you find that your flushed face is accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, sweating more than usual, or nausea, then it could be a sign of heat exhaustion, which is more likely to happen outside on hot and humid days. Working out in a hot room or in higher temps is definitely a risk, so if you experience these symptoms, stop exercising immediately, get inside where it's cooler, loosen up tight clothing (or remove it altogether), and drink plenty of cool water.
To prevent heat exhaustion, make sure to drink plenty of fluids before and during your workout. If you love outdoor workouts, try to exercise during a time of day when temperatures are the lowest, like in the early morning. It also helps to run on shady trails in the woods or on a breezy path near a lake or beach. Here are more tips on how to stay cool when working out in the heat and how to recover after a hot and humid workout.
When to Eat Your Largest Meal During the Day If You're Trying to Lose Weight
When you're on a mission to lose weight, what you choose to eat needs to line up with your goals. However, according to Break the Weight founder and health coach Ricki Friedman, how and when you eat is just as crucial. If you tend to eat light all day and chow down on a large dinner, you might be standing in the way of your success.
According to Ricki, your largest meal of the day should fall between 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. After a large midday meal, you have an opportunity to go for a walk, work out, or move in some capacity that will support your digestion, but after a large late dinner, people tend to sit down to relax and go to bed on a full stomach - not a good idea if you want to wake up full of energy with healthy digestion, said Ricki.
This plan may sound easy enough, but Ricki explained, "It's often more of an emotional challenge than a physical challenge for people to make dinner light. Most of us use dinner as an activity for us to do when we get home out of loneliness or boredom, so you'll need some structure or alternative activities to fall back on!" Ricki's number-one activity she suggests to clients? Take a 20-minute walk every night after dinner. An evening walk supports healthy digestion, takes your focus off of food, and gives you an opportunity to check in with your emotional state.
If you're not sure what constitutes a light dinner, Ricki's only hard-and-fast rule is to make it less than 400 calories. Here are four options she recommends to her clients:
- Four ounces of salmon with grilled veggies and half a sweet potato
- Vegetable or lentil soup
- Half a cup of quinoa with lots and lots of veggies
- Half a veggie or beef burger with grilled vegetables
"If you want something like pizza, only have one piece or two, and then take your nighttime walk. It's not about taking all the things you love away from yourself; it's about learning how to have them, so you can go to bed feeling good, light, and satisfied," said Ricki.
Does Donald Trump Have a Dog? No - and That’s Not Even the Craziest Part
Presidents tend to have a lot in common. They are married to spouses who work to carry on American values, with whom they live in the same house and with whom they assumedly sleep in the same bed. They raise largely successful children who don't work for them and who they've never mentioned wanting to sleep with. They are hardworking and smart, available at all hours to fight for America. They rarely take time off for leisure save for brief reprieves with literature. And they have a dog - or two.
Much of the same cannot be said of our current president, Donald Trump. In fact, Trump is the first president in more than 100 years to be dogless. This gaping hole in Americanness shouldn't be that shocking given Mr. Trump's contrarian, "Drain the swamp!" style.
Several presidents have gone dogless, but the last president to be without a dog was William McKinley, who was commander in chief from 1897-1901. However, according to the Presidential Pet Museum, McKinley did have pets: he had a parrot, two angora kittens, and roosters. Does Trump have any pets? The Presidential Pet Museum believes not.
Also of note before McKinley is Andrew Johnson. He didn't have a dog, was impeached in 1868 and apparently "left flour out at night for a family of white mice playing in his room" amidst the political drama. Pet food for thought.
One fluffy, silver lining is that Trump has reportedly attempted to get a dog in recent months, specifically a goldendoodle named Patton. As the New York Post reported in January, Trump was set to adopt the pup from friend Lois Pope, but Pope kept the dog after forming a connection with it herself. Pope claims Trump listed his constant traveling as a reason why he'd be a poor owner. Hmm.
Further proof that Trump seems to be anticanine? He loves insulting people by saying they failed or choked "like a dog" on Twitter.
Mitt Romney had his chance to beat a failed president but he choked like a dog. Now he calls me racist-but I am least racist person there is
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 11, 2016
.@EWErickson got fired like a dog from RedState
and now he is the one leading opposition against me.- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) March 18, 2016
Wow was Ted Cruz disloyal to his very capable director of communication. He used him as a scape goat-fired like a dog! Ted panicked.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 23, 2016
Union Leader refuses to comment as to why they were kicked out of the ABC News debate like a dog. For starters, try getting a new publisher!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) January 10, 2016
.@GlennBeck got fired like a dog by #Fox. The Blaze is failing and he wanted to have me on his show. I said no - because he is irrelevant.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 17, 2015
I hear that sleepy eyes @chucktodd will be fired like a dog from ratings starved Meet The Press? I can't imagine what is taking so long!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 13, 2015
Obama called Reverend Wright his friend, counselor & great leader--then dumped him like a dog!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 3, 2012
Robert Pattinson should not take back Kristen Stewart. She cheated on him like a dog & will do it again--just watch. He can do much better!
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 17, 2012
Egypt is a total mess. We should have backed Mubarak instead of dropping him like a dog.
- Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 12, 2012
We're anxious to know what will become of Trump's presidential pet ownership, but we do know one thing: getting a dog might help solve his failing disapproval ratings. As the Washington Post observes, a presidential dog offers good publicity and bipartisan relatability. They also provide personal benefits like stress reduction and loyalty.
Might not want to let that sleeping dog lie, President Trump.
Not to Be Dramatic, but I Would Sell My Soul For Daenerys's Game of Thrones Wardrobe
It was recently revealed that Game of Thrones costume designer Michele Clapton actually used shaggy Ikea rugs to create some of the capes for Night's Watch members on the show (yes, really). But I'm not here to discuss a boring old cape, no matter how hilarious its origins - I'm here to discuss the serious glamour Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke) has been serving throughout season seven.
From the moment she first steps onto Dragonstone's beach in the premiere, it's obvious that the flowy white and blue gowns she wore while in Meereen had been tossed overboard on her journey to Westeros. In their place? Leather. Lots of leather (as well as one mindbogglingly beautiful fur coat). Since then, Dany's coat-heavy wardrobe has cut a perfect balance between masculine and feminine, officially giving Game of Thrones fans (and anyone with eyes) all the Winter inspiration we'll ever need.
The Most Intense 3-Minute Ab Workout
No need to spend 20 minutes on your ab workout. These three moves are intense and target the abs so well, you'll be feeling the burn in just three minutes.
Directions: Do all three moves, 20 seconds each, totalling one minute. Then repeat the circuit twice more for a total of three minutes.
A Subtle Form of Slut Shaming You May Not Realize You're Perpetuating
On May 23, the Trump administration put another dollar in its "Swear (that we are trying to f*ck over women) Jar" when it rolled out a new rule. The proposed legislation would amend the Affordable Care Act to allow employers to opt out of providing contraception coverage for employees if they have a "conscience-based" objection. This means that if a company has a religious or moral (or really any) opposition to birth control, it can remove free preventive coverage from the medical insurance plans it offers its employees. Because honestly, who hasn't wanted their boss and their government in their panties?
Under the 2010 ACA, contraceptives are free for women because birth control is considered a necessary component of healthcare coverage. But the Obama administration made an exception to the ACA's coverage, allowing religious nonprofits and closely held for-profit companies with religious objections to deny coverage for some - or all - contraceptive purposes. Trump's new draft rule takes this a step (or rather, a giant leap) further and is much broader in its exemption allowances, which will inevitably affect millions of women around the country. In 2013 alone, the ACA contraception mandate helped 55 million women obtain birth control and saved them $1.4 billion in out-of-pocket healthcare spending. That's $1.4 billion with a capital "B" - money that could then be spent on feeding families, higher education, securing a roof over one's head . . . ya know, the little things.
Anyone can understand that if women are forced to spend, on average, $1,200/year on contraception, making birth control free will aid women in taking control of their physical and financial health. In terms of securing economic freedom and bringing families out of poverty, this is paramount. As women of the 21st century, we should all be on the same page there. But we too often tend to lose our spot in the Why Birth Control Is Necessary book we were all given as fourth-wave feminists.
Whenever the discussion of birth control arises, so does one of justification. We hear our friends and coworkers exclaim that, "This is BS! I'm on the pill, but it's for acne," or, "WTF, don't these Republicans know that a lot of women take the pill for endometriosis?! Like Lena Dunham . . . ," and, "Before birth control I had the worst cramps - I need this covered!" Which are all completely valid and reasonable arguments, but they kind of miss the point.
According to the Guttmacher Institute, a whopping 86 percent of women who use birth control use it for pregnancy prevention, aka its intended purpose. And that's awesome. But for some reason, when the topic of the pill comes up, we feel we need to offer up some other explanation besides, "I would like to have sex without having a child before I'm ready or can afford one." But why? Are we trying to appease reproductive-rights foes by offering up medical ailments that can be treated with the pill? Or do we still feel that, in 2017, we cannot be open and honest about the fact that we are sexually active?
As someone who has been guilty of the "acne" disclaimer on more than one occasion, I'm going to proffer that the majority of us, whether subconsciously or not, are still not completely comfortable with announcing that we have sex. We still fear that if we reveal that we use birth control to have sex, and not babies, that we'll be considered sluts - even though we know, as millennial women, that this is an antiquated and erroneous mindset. And yet, we perpetuate the cycle of slut shaming when we continue to use "acne" as an explanation for our BC prescription. Even if the aforementioned, alternative reasons explain your prescription, we still do not need to offer them up as some sort of mechanism to remove the pill's scarlet letter.
Clear skin and cramp-less periods are awesome, but so is having sex without an unplanned pregnancy. Wanting to have sex without an unplanned pregnancy should be enough of an explanation for our birth control. Wanting to have sex without an unplanned pregnancy should not require statistics and numbers to justify. Wanting to have sex without an unplanned pregnancy should be enough of a reason to demand access to birth control.
Our feminist foremothers didn't fight for our sexual liberation so that we could say we have "acne." We must direct the conversation around birth control by demanding that protected sex is our right and that no other explanation is necessary.
What It's Like to Be Both Mexican and Jewish
Although you may think that all Latinos are Catholic, this is incorrect. I was born in Mexico City, and, like my parents, I was raised Jewish.
My life in Mexico was pretty simple; I lived in a Jewish bubble. I went to a Jewish day school, had only Jewish friends, and lived in a primarily Jewish neighborhood. While I was aware that I was a minority, it never really affected me. I loved participating in traditionally Mexican events. One of my favorite memories of Mexico is when my mom took me to the cemetery to join the Día de los Muertos festivities. I was amazed at all the unique and beautiful colors, food, and photos that decorated the graves.
I never felt ashamed of being Jewish and only later realized that some Mexicans didn't consider me a "real Mexican." One day, a local vendor walking around Mexico City's Centro Histórico called me a güera (blonde). He was basically calling me a gringa due to my pale skin. It caught me by surprise and probably hurt me more than I could even understand at that time.
My life changed when I moved to Miami when I was 8 years old. I no longer went to a Jewish school, most of my friends weren't Jewish, and the people I met were from all over Latin America. My Latino-Jewish friends understood my background and upbringing perfectly, and most of them were raised with similar experiences. Just like me, they had grown up in Jewish neighborhoods in places like Colombia or Venezuela and moved to Miami seeking a better and safer life. I also had a lot in common with my non-Jewish Latin friends. We bonded over food and culture, as well as our nagging Latino parents.
My first real culture shock occurred when an American-Jewish girl asked me if it was my dad who was Mexican and my mom Jewish, or the other way around. She couldn't fathom both my parents being Jewish and Mexican. Since then, I've probably gotten asked a variation of this question a million times. Even other Jewish people have a hard time understanding my background. People ask me, "If you're a Mexican Jew, then that has to mean you're Sephardic, right?" or "You can't be Ashkenazi, you're from Mexico" or even, "How are you white AND Mexican?"
Judaism includes several ethnic divisions, but Sephardic and Ashkenazi are two of the most common. A Sephardic Jew is someone whose family originates from places like Spain, Turkey, Portugal, and Greece; an Ashkenazi Jew's family originates from Central and Eastern Europe and Russia. A lot of people assume that because I'm from a Spanish-speaking country, my ancestors must have come from Spain, but I have no connection to Spain whatsoever. Three out of my four grandparents migrated from Russia, Lithuania, and Poland to Mexico after the Holocaust, making me three-fourths Ashkenazi. I'm also a fourth Sephardic because my paternal grandfather migrated from Turkey to Mexico in the 1900s.
On the Jewish sabbath, my family dines on Mexican-Jewish dishes like like gefilte fish a la Veracruzana or schnitzel with salsa verde.
My Mexican-Jewish traditions didn't seem that unique to me until I moved to Boston for college. It was then that I realized I couldn't relate to many American-Jewish traditions. Many of my new American-Jewish friends had gone to Jewish schools, attended a Jewish sleepaway camp every Summer, and joined Jewish youth groups during the school year. I had never stepped foot in a sleepaway camp, and the last Jewish school I had attended was in Mexico.
However, it was the different song and prayer tunes they used in synagogue that really opened my eyes. Songs that I had learned in Mexico and Miami were completely different in Boston. I ultimately realized that these are differences that every foreigner deals with. College introduced me to people from different parts of the world, of different cultures and religions. Although some Latinos viewed me as a faux-Latina due to my religion, others saw beyond that and saw me as one of them.
If there is one thing that being a Mexican Jew has taught me, it is the importance of both my family and my heritage. I may not know what's ahead for me, but I do know this: my kids will be raised in a Spanish-speaking home with chilaquiles for breakfast, baklava for dessert, and Shabbat dinners every Friday night.
20 Quick Summery Snacks With Only 3 Ingredients
Summer produce is usually so good that it doesn't need much to make it better. But when you are looking to spice things up, we have a few ideas to make your Summer snacks more interesting and elegant. Butter, citrus juice, and salt are a few of the no-brainers, but we've thrown in some oddball ingredients too, like ginger and kelp sprinkle. But if you're all out of fresh produce, we have a few other quick snacks that can be easily thrown together from pantry goods.
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