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 19 août 2018
If You're Trying to Lose Weight, You Should Avoid These 6 Proteins
If you live an active lifestyle, you know just how important having an adequate amount of protein in your diet is. Certified dietitian Leslie Langevin, MS, RD, CD, of Whole Health Nutrition, says to aim for "no more than 20 to 30 grams of protein at each meal." Langevin's recommendation falls within the CDC's for women ages 19 to 70 of an average of 46 grams of protein per day. Some women might even need double that amount if they're trying to build muscle.
But how are you getting that protein? We all want to take care of our health and reach our goals, but there are some sources of protein you're going to want to avoid along the way. Not all proteins are created equally, so we've rounded up the worst six that you should stay far away from or practice moderation with to stay on track with your weight loss goals.
50+ Delicately Sexy Tattoos That Are Hotter Than Hot
The sex appeal of a tattoo is all in the placement on your body. If you want something tiny and delicate but still oh so sexy, consider just where you get inked. A tiny heart tattoo suddenly becomes more sensual when you put it on your collarbone. Take your little flower tattoo up a notch by putting it below your panty line. Any place that might be covered unless you move a hemline out of the way is surely a sexy spot. If you need a little inspiration for your next tiny sexy tattoo, we have more than 50 ideas for you to get inspired.
50 Tiny Friendship Tattoos You Won't Regret, Even If You Lose Touch
Forget about friendship bracelets; nowadays, it's all about friendship tattoos - because nothing quite says "best friends forever" like a permanent inking. If you and your bestie are nervous about getting tatted up, opting for a teeny-tiny design will ease any anxiety you may have. Whether you're looking for a meaningful tattoo that signifies your friendship or just a fun, whimsical design, grab your BFF and prepare to be inspired by these 50 tiny tats.
This Is the Best Nail Polish For Your Zodiac Sign
To me, astrology is magical and helps make sense of a crazy, unpredictable world. It's a way to understand yourself and help unpack why all of us make the decisions we do. You know what else says a lot about you? Your nail polish. Whether you prefer neutrals, dark hues, bright neons, or shimmery shades, one look at your hands can reveal a lot. So, why not combine the two? These are our picks for nail polish shades based on your zodiac sign, just in time for your next manicure.
I Found a Concealer That Instantly Erases My Under-Eye Bags
When it comes to concealer, I've always had trouble finding a product that truly covers my under-eye bags. Most options crease, come right off, or just don't have enough coverage. Then, a makeup artist applied Lancôme Effacernes Waterproof Undereye Concealer ($31) to my face. I was in total awe. With a few taps of the product, those pesky bags instantly vanished.
The long-wear waterproof formula stays on from morning till night - I never have to reapply. Its silky consistency melts right into my skin for a natural look that isn't cakey or drying. Still not sold? Just check out the amazing reviews on Nordstrom. Of the 375 customers who reviewed the product, almost all of them give it a perfect five stars.
"To date the best full coverage concealer I've found," one buyer wrote. "Does not crease or get blotchy as the day goes on. I have terrible undereye circles and this covers them almost perfectly. I have tried just about every high-end and drugstore brand concealer and this is by far the best."
Consider your hunt over. Once you get your hands on this formula, you'll never want to try anything else again. I promise.
The 7 Types of Boots You'll See Everywhere This Fall, Your Closet Included
Fall is the best time to invest in a new pair of boots. If you think about it from a trend perspective, the silhouette you choose will last you well into next year, and all the styles here are appropriate for each and every month. You might be sporting your cowboy boots with a floral midi dress now, but work them with a cozy shearling coat and thick denim come Winter, and you've got a whole new look on your hands.
Boots are so popular (come on, who doesn't love 'em?) that it was hard to narrow down our list to the top five pairs you need. Instead, take a look at the seven shapes that are making it big this season, along with our favorite iterations at a variety of price points.
20 Years Later, and We Still Want to Raid Charlotte's Sex and the City Wardrobe
When it comes to Sex and the City's iconic style moments, you may have been a fan of Carrie's head-turning outfits, Samantha's skin-tight ensembles, and Miranda's boss-lady power suits, but Charlotte's chic feminine and preppy looks should not be overlooked. While the other girls were trendsetters of their time, Charlotte's classic all-American wardrobe is still very much in style, more than two decades later.
Not only was her style timeless and attainable, but women everywhere are still finding sartorial inspiration from her looks. The show's stylist, Patricia Field, told us, "Charlotte is the girl that every guy wants to take home to mother. As such, I tended to dress her in silhouettes that gave a nod to the '50s." Because Charlotte always wore such classic and timeless pieces, her style has truly stood the test of time, perhaps better than the rest, and we have the proof. Click through to see some of her chicest moments from both the films and the show.
These 14 Fall Pieces Are So Stylish, You'll Never Guess They're From Walmart
As you start prepping your Fall wardrobe, there's one retailer that might not immediately come to mind but is totally worth checking out: Walmart. The affordable store surprisingly carries a wide array of brands you know and love. We did the dirty work for you and searched the site for its best seasonal picks. From sweater dresses to faux leather jackets and chic boots, you're going to fall in love with these finds. The best part: everything is under $50, so you can get everything you want. Take a look.
Oh, Hey There! Blake Lively Could Stop Traffic in Her Neon Green Versace Suit
Blake Lively isn't here to mess around, folks. The 30-year-old actress is busy promoting her upcoming film A Simple Favor, and that includes a lot of press tour outfits like the shocking neon green Versace suit she wore on Aug. 17. Blake's known for taking wild fashion risks that pay off, and while this ensemble may require sunglasses for those with sensitive eyes, she certainly owns the look.
She paired the monochromatic blazer, sweater, and pants with Lorraine Schwartz jewelry and multicolored jeweled heels. The rule is to go big or go home, right? Here's to many more unbelievable looks from Blake as this press tour moves forward. We can't wait to see what she picks next!
Trust Me, Jennifer Aniston's Casual Outfits Are Anything but Boring
Jennifer Aniston's everyday style can be summed up in three words: easy, breezy, and casual. While the actress knows to get everyone's attention on the red carpet - have you seen her collection of sexy heels?! - we can't get enough of her simple street style.
The Friends actress has an array of classic pieces that she wears on repeat. Think: cargo pants, tank tops, and, of course, flip-flops. While these wardrobe staples may seem basic to some, it's how the actress styles them that makes them look fresh and cool. Ahead you can find 24 times that Jennifer Aniston's casual outfits upstaged her red carpet looks. You can also shop similar staples for your wardrobe if you're feeling inspired, too.
Have You Seen Jennifer Lopez's Feathered Dress? No Wonder She Was Glowing
Whether she's wearing a lingerie-inspired dress or a modest blouse, Jennifer Lopez somehow always manages to exude sexiness. Of course, there's something to be said about plunging necklines and slinky dresses, but the superstar just made a case for a feathery minidress with a modest neckline - and needless to say, we're in love.
For an evening out with her boyfriend Alex Rodriguez, J Lo wore a stunning pink silk dress by Valentino. While the delicate feathers definitely made an impact, it was the romantic, Victorian-inspired high collar (which cleverly contrasted with the miniskirt length) that truly made an impact.
To finish her outfit, Jennifer opted for silver hoops, a gorgeous Fendi Peekaboo top handle bag, and pink heeled sandals. Ahead, get a closer look at her gorgeous ensemble, and then shop her exact dress, as well as similar options, for yourself.
Lady Gaga Just Might Be 1 of the Most Underrated Style Icons of Our Time
Lady Gaga is known for pushing the boundaries and making a statement with practically everything she wears, and this year is no different. This triple-threat artist is one of the most underrated style icons of our time. From her classic city girl looks to her over-the-top statement coats, her style has been more refined than ever. And by the looks of these recent killer outfits, we have a feeling it won't be long before she is back to bless our ears with new music. We've narrowed her best looks of 2018 down to the top 34 - take a look ahead.
Lauren Conrad Has Found the Most Flattering Jeans on the Planet, and She Can't Stop Wearing Them
I've admired Lauren Conrad, or LC as we all lovingly call her, since I was about 13. Everything from her style to her books made me want to know more. (If you haven't read her Fame Game series, you really haven't lived life, in my opinion.) So you better believe that I was full-on geekin' out when I had the opportunity to interview the starlet for the relaunch of her Kohl's x LC Lauren Conrad denim collection.
There were so many things I wanted to know: Does she look just as adorable in real life? (Spoiler alert: yes, more than you could possibly imagine.) Is she just as approachable as she seems? (Double yes!) How are her waves always so impeccable? (Fun fact: I complimented her perfect waves, and Lauren confessed that she forgot her products at home and had to water down her husband's hair gel, thus making her even more relatable.) Most importantly, I wanted to know how she always manages to look so put-together, even in a simple pair of jeans.
If you've been keeping up with Lauren's style over the years, you've probably noticed that she's something of a denim expert, so it's only natural that her line with Kohl's would include jeans. The relaunched collection now features Lycra and four-way stretch fabric (hello, comfort!). Prices range from $50 to $64, and the affordable line is also size inclusive, which means both petite and curvy women can rock the same styles.
Since denim is such a huge part of our lives and Lauren's, I chatted with the designer to find out what the one pair of jeans she would wear for the rest of her life is: "I think I'm pretty committed to the skinny. I've been wearing it so long, and I don't think it's going anywhere. Obviously, the length is going to adjust a little bit, but skinny jeans for life," Lauren revealed. True to form, Lauren was wearing a pair of superflattering skinny jeans from her collection during the interview.
Here, celebrate Lauren's no-fail style as we take a look back at all of the times she has worn skinny jeans over the years. Then shop new pieces from her collection, if you're feeling inspired, ahead.
samedi 18 août 2018
100 Halle Berry Pics So Sexy, You'll Be Convinced She's Aging Backwards
If the elixir of life actually exists, then we're convinced that Halle Berry has found it (or maybe it's just all the bone broth she drinks). At 51, Halle is hotter than ever, and even following her strict ketogenic diet and insane exercise regimen, we doubt we could look half as sexy. To celebrate the ageless beauty that is Halle, we've collected her 100 fiercest photos of all time - after viewing, you'll probably be adding kettlebells and chickpea puffs to your shopping list.
Tone Your Back and Shoulders With This Simple Bodyweight Exercise
If you're trying to increase your overall strength while building lean muscle mass, you've got to start training with the TRX suspension trainer. The suspension trainer is one of the most diverse pieces of equipment in the gym - you can work every muscle group with it, and the best part is, your body is the weight. Because of this, not only will you strengthen and define your muscles, but you will also improve the overall functional movement patterns that you do day in and day out, like pushing, pulling, twisting, bending, and squatting.
One of the best pulling exercises you can do with the TRX is the deltoid fly, working your shoulders, core (the stabilizer), and back. This shoulder-strengthening exercise will also improve your posture by opening up your shoulders and strengthening your upper back.
Here's how to do it:
- Before getting started, make sure the TRX suspension trainer is secured to an anchor point (a fixed object that won't move and can support you weight). The straps should be at mid-length.
- Grab the handles with each hand and walk your feet out approximately two feet away from your body. Your arms should be extended in front of you and your body should be in a straight line. The further you walk your feet in front of you, the more challenging the exercise will become.
- With your core engaged, open your arms out toward the sides, like you're making a "T" with your arms. Be sure to keep tension on the straps throughout the entire movement.
- With your core still engaged and tension on the straps, return to the starting position with control. This counts as one rep.
- Complete three sets of 12 reps.
The Keto Diet Was Catastrophic to My Mental Health - Here's Why
When I learned about the keto diet, it didn't feel too different from my post-Whole30 eating habits. My typical plate was filled with mostly veggies, meat, and tofu; I drank green smoothies for breakfast; and I swore by bulletproof coffee (though I still enjoyed cocktails at happy hour and my favorite pad Thai). I'd heard that some women struggling with PCOS (like myself) found symptom relief with higher-fat, lower- carbohydrate diets - so I stocked up on all the fats and began my own 21 days of keto challenge.
Moment of pure, unfiltered honesty: my first week on the keto diet felt like a mix between repeatedly being hit with a sledgehammer and being punched in the stomach. Torture. I experienced the reality that is the keto flu, which manifested for me as several days of pure exhaustion, headaches, general grumpiness, and poor sleep. I'd read this was all part of the journey, so I took friends' advice to up my calorie intake and drink a ton of water. But after nearly two weeks, I didn't feel anything close to the gobs of mental clarity and energy they proclaimed.
Related: What Happened When I Went Keto For 30 Days - and Then Went Off It
As I pushed into my second week, I noticed a general keto takeover of my mind. When I found myself spending more time googling the net carbs in pieces of kale for my salad than eating it, I realized what had started as an enthusiastic wellness adventure had taken a dark turn - one I am still recovering from.
"Diets such as keto and Whole30 can trigger dangerous restriction habits, create a setup for binge-eating, and send obsessive food thoughts spiraling," said Dr. Ashley Solomon, executive clinical director of Eating Recovery Center in Ohio. "These diets are not effective long-term, and when they ultimately fail, they have people beating themselves up for not 'trying hard enough' rather than understanding that a restrictive and unhelpful way of eating was never the answer."
I dropped five pounds in under two weeks, but I couldn't shake my constant exhaustion and irritability.
I dropped five pounds in under two weeks, but I couldn't shake my constant exhaustion and irritability. My coworkers began to take notice. As a fitness professional, my job requires me to be on at all times - and I was less than present. I loved cooking, but I began to dread mealtime for fear of miscalculating carbs or just not having the energy to whip up even the simplest of meals. This unhealthy mindset triggered a slide back down the path of my disordered eating tendencies. Thought patterns, obsessions, and actions that hadn't been part of my life for years were reappearing at an alarming rate.
I wondered how all of this could emerge from a single diet challenge. "The problem is fundamental to the way that food is framed in these plans," said Dr. Solomon. "Plans like Whole30 and keto talk about 'stripping' and 'eliminating' foods from your life, which frames food as something to be feared and avoided. Depriving our bodies of a variety of food experiences and nutrients will have our brains crying. For people at risk for eating disorders, this can be a recipe for disaster."
When I decided to stop the keto diet, my body revolted. I woke up constipated and inflamed - my stomach was distended in a constant state of bloating, my face puffy and swollen. My body began holding on tight to the influx of carbohydrates, and I quickly gained back any weight I had lost and then some.
Related: Thinking of Starting the Keto Diet? Here Are the Pros and Cons You Should Know
Not only did my body physically rebel, but so did my mind. My cravings grew so fierce I was dreaming in carbs. I wanted the bags of candy at the gas station, the glowing cabinet of baked goodies at Whole Foods, the plastic containers of grocery store cupcakes with their neon frosting. Foods I never thought twice about before practically screamed at me. Healthy nutrition habits I'd refined over the past year virtually disappeared, and once again I was a slave to sugar and white carbs.
"Creating rigid rules around food reinforces feelings of fear, anxiety, and shame for people predisposed to disordered eating," Dr. Solomon said. "Plus, most of these diets even acknowledge that cravings increase upon starting them, which is a key trigger for binge-eating." I could relate; I felt ashamed of my "failure" to complete a simple 21-day keto trial and of my backslide in an area of my life where I had worked tirelessly to recover.
To compensate for my out-of-control feelings, I was thrown back into the cycle of binge-eating and purging once more. I finally confided in a close friend who urged me to seek out professional support in my recovery journey.
To compensate for my out-of-control feelings, I was thrown back into the cycle of binge-eating and purging once more.
I have dear friends and acquaintances who have had massive success with keto, Whole30, low-carb, vegan, Paleo, and other of-the-moment eating lifestyles. I found my own success in rooting out food intolerances with the Whole30 the first time I did it a year ago, and even in switching to a higher-fat, lower-carb diet.
But now I know there's a darker side of the fad diet story. Not every new diet that gains popularity is suitable for everyone. Food is so richly tied to ourselves and our emotions. And as much as some preach the benefits of their own particular approach, there really is no solid one-size-fits-all approach to a healthy lifestyle.
When deciding to give a trend or new way of eating a try, chat with a health professional such as a registered dietitian or holistic nutritionist first rather than diving in after skimming the internet or reading up on what your favorite blogger does. There are real dangers to be aware of when beginning any new diet. It's so easy to get caught up in the pursuit of a healthy lifestyle that we can toe the line between passionate learning and unhealthy obsession. "A focus on health and well-being has been demonstrated to have the best long-term outcomes [rather than diets]," Dr. Solomon said. "And for those without specific medical conditions, enjoying a variety of foods and having food freedom rather than elimination is the key."
If You Watched the Original Charmed, You Owe It to Yourself to Check Out the Reboot
Image Source: The CW
When I was growing up, all I did was watch TV. My family had cable, and whenever my sister and I were being "babysat," it was really just us babies being propped in front of the TV while our cousins did whatever teenagers did back in the '90s. I would imagine it was the same things the crew in Beverly Hills, 90210 got up to, because, as I was saying, TV is my native tongue.
One of my favorite shows to watch was The WB's Charmed. To my mother's distress, I loved everything about magic, witches, and the supernatural. My sister and I would spend hours debating which powers would suit us best and what spells we would want to use if it were possible. We devoted every Wednesday, Thursday, and Sunday night to our favorite trio of sisters and their messy, complicated lives. We mourned Prue's (Shannen Doherty) death, celebrated Piper's (Holly Marie Combs) babies, and wished Phoebe (Alyssa Milano) would just find a man already. We welcomed Paige (Rose McGowan) like she was our own and everyone else that came after. I doubt there was ever a more devoted pair of adolescent fans. So when I heard there was a reboot in development of my favorite series, I was excited - the power of three was rising again.
Of course, the internet quickly reminded me that it's never that simple. Now, don't get me wrong, I can totally understand where upset fans are coming from; having an entirely different family and story attached to the original show's name can seem off-putting. Some, like first series star Holly Marie Combs, may see this as "capitalizing on [their] hard work." But it's easy to look at the decision to keep the show's name as something negative rather than admitting that there is logic to it.
Maintaining the original name keeps the reboot relevant to the fandom. It shows that the series is in line with the original, even though it has a different cast and different stories. The big picture is still the same: Charmed will still be about three sisters working together to fight for their family and the greater good. It's just that the details making up that big picture - such as casting new witches Madeleine Mantock, Melonie Diaz, and Sarah Jeffery and bringing the story into the current year - are different. If this reboot had come under a different name, the only thing tethering it to the original series would be the concept and some key elements. It would seem more like a ripoff than a reboot.
Obviously it isn't all Charmed fans who are vehemently opposed to this reboot, but the haters are very vocal about their feelings. If it isn't the name of the reboot that they take umbrage with, it's the idea that the new series seems to be trying "too hard" to champion diversity or that it's ageist to recast the reboot with younger actresses, which are ridiculous notions, to be frank. As someone who grew up during what people often romanticize as "the best era of TV," a lot of shows I watched as a kid are seen as sacred. Shows like Charmed are forever viewed with rose-colored glasses because they were so formative and empowering for people. And that's beautiful! But it's also close-minded.
Image Source: Everett Collection
Charmed premiered in 1998 and ran until 2006. That was 12 years ago - basically another lifetime in terms of what society looks like. The series was very much of its times while also being ahead of its time. The core themes of sisterhood and girl power could sometimes get lost in the torrid romances and absurdly complicated storylines. And when compared to shows from the last five years, the original Charmed proves to be lacking in a number of ways. One such factor, which also addresses that "championing diversity" gripe, is the predominantly white cast of the show. I can genuinely only think of about six people of color that had any significant presence in the entire series. (And by significant presence, I mean they were at least familiar faces during one season.) Only four of those actors were featured in more than one season, and only two were in more than two. If anything, the show needed to work harder to bring some diversity on the screen. It's 2018, and viewers want - and deserve - more from their shows.
As for being ageist, there are several reasons that could explain why the original cast wasn't asked back. The first would be that all those actors are busy and their schedules wouldn't allow for an appearance in the reboot. (Alyssa Milano is starring in Netflix's controversial new show Insatiable, for instance.) Another reason could be that the story of the Halliwell sisters ended pretty definitively in 2006. The finale features the sisters defeating the Big Bad and flashing forward to their future families, which is everything they wanted from the beginning of the series. The decision to move on to a new family with a different story isn't ageist; it's respecting the legacy that Charmed built to begin with.
Image Source: Everett Collection
We watched the Halliwell sisters go through their trials and tribulations and saw them battle the greatest evils and win. Not to mention, they were so powerful by the end of the series, we wouldn't even believe anyone would give them enough trouble for a whole new series of manufactured ups and downs. The introduction of new sisters (Macy, Mel, and Maggie) allows us to watch as another trio of women grow into that kind of power, the same way we watched Prue, Piper, Phoebe, and Paige do the same.
It's deeply unfair to write off a reboot just because you want the original stars of your favorite show back on the screen. If you want to see the Halliwell sisters up to their usual hijinks, you can still stream the original series whenever you want. But this retelling isn't just for people who watched the series live on The WB. This show is also for a new generation of viewers who are looking to relate to these characters. It's for women who never thought they'd see someone like them, someone different, have a place in such a huge fandom. It's for people to discover that there isn't just one face to this kind of world and that there are so many different traditions, cultures, and ways to explore it. It's a new story that promises to be as exciting as our original favorite, but in different ways.
There's nothing wrong with still loving Charmed and wanting to hold on to the good memories that it brought you. There is something wrong with bashing the desire to take the foundations of that greatness and using it to bring something new to people. This reboot doesn't take anything away from the original. That still exists online and in your memories. This reboot is just an opportunity to fall in love with three new magical sisters who are finding themselves, and each other, in the craziness that is their world and ours. It's all the wonderfully Wiccan aspects we discovered 20 years ago, with a twist of new practices mixed in (like brujeria, for instance, the Spanish practice of witchcraft). That's a change to be celebrated.
When Charmed premieres on Oct. 14, I know I'll be tuning in. I would never want to miss a chance to dive into the showrunner Jennie Snyder Urman's reimagining of the world, and I'm looking forward to meeting Macy, Mel, and Maggie. We'll hopefully get to watch as they evolve into the powerful witches capable of invoking the Power of Three, and fans who enjoyed Prue, Piper, Phoebe, and Paige should join me. Why would you want to miss out?
50+ Photos That Show the Outpouring of Love at Princess Diana's Public Funeral
When Princess Diana was tragically killed in a car crash in August 1997, it seemed as though the world was mourning just as deeply as her own family. Diana, dubbed "The People's Princess," made an indelible mark on those in the UK as well as around the globe; her funeral, which was held on Sept. 6, was watched or listened to by an estimated 2.5 billion people worldwide - making it one of the most watched events in history. In London, a crowd of nearly one million people gathered to trace Diana's coffin from Kensington Palace to Westminster Abbey to her final resting place at the Spencer family's home in Althorp.
Diana's sons, Harry and William, followed their mother's coffin alongside their father, Prince Charles, and their uncle Charles, the Earl Spencer. The visibly moved onlookers blanketed the streets with heartfelt notes, bouquets, and teddy bears, and flower petals rained down from bystanders along the procession route. People also gathered in Hyde Park, where the ceremony was being aired on a giant screen, while celebrities like Tom Cruise, Nicole Kidman, Hillary Clinton, and Elton John attended the official ceremony inside Westminster Abbey. We're looking back on the outpouring of love from the public at Diana's funeral. Scroll through to see all the tearjerking photos.
Princess Diana's Summer Style Was Way Ahead of Its Time
Before Meghan Markle and Kate Middleton, we had the original royal style icon: Princess Diana. William and Harry's mum served up fashion inspiration regularly, and the world was always watching to see what she would wear. Whether she was dressed up for an official engagement or enjoying downtime on the beach or a yacht, some of Lady Di's best looks were from the Summer months.
Diana had a way of making every outfit look elegant and effortlessly chic, even when she was sporting overalls or bike shorts (which are conveniently in style again). So in honor of the "People's Princess," we're having a look back at her best Summer fashion moments and scoring some warm-weather dressing inspo of our own. Join us, won't you?
Nagging Nighttime Cough? Here Are Causes That Could Be Keeping You Up at Night
You feel fine all day, but something happens when you tuck yourself into bed. A tickle in your throat leads to a nagging cough that only seems to happen at night, interfering with your sleep and leaving you irritable the next day. If you've ruled out the common cold or other respiratory infections, here are five common reasons you may be coughing at night.
- Asthma: Most people equate asthma with the image of someone gasping for air. Although this can definitely be a symptom, most people with asthma commonly experience a dry cough. Make sure to talk to your doctor about getting tested for asthma to rule it out as the cause of your coughing.
- Sinusitis: A chronic stuffy nose caused by allergies or a long-term sickness such as a sinus infection that won't go away could also be the culprit. When sinuses are clogged, the mucus can drip down the back of the throat (postnasal drip), causing that annoying tickle. If using a neti pot doesn't help, over-the-counter allergy meds or a prescription nasal spray could help clear your sinuses.
- Acid reflux: Acid reflux disease, aka GERD, can also cause coughing. When lying down, the acid in your stomach, which causes indigestion and heartburn, can also wash into your lungs. If you think that GERD is the problem, try eating a smaller dinner earlier in the evening and prop your head up on a couple pillows when you sleep. If this doesn't help, there are also OTC medications that work wonders.
- Iron deficiency: A diet lacking certain nutrients can also contribute to a chronic cough. If your body is low in iron, swelling and irritation in the back of your throat could be a symptom, which can lead to coughing. If this sounds familiar, then an iron supplement may be all you need.
- Check your drugs: Meds, like ACE inhibitors prescribed for high blood pressure, can create the side effect of a dry cough. Talk to your pharmacist to see if your coughing could be caused by one of the medications you're on.
Vegan-Friendly Cookbooks to Help You Shake Things Up
Whether you're a proud vegan or simply a fan of occasionally going meatless, chances are you could benefit from branching out beyond your go-to overnight oats and nice cream to try new recipes. We're here to help!
We've rounded up some of the best and most creative vegan-friendly cookbooks - all available on Amazon - that are backed up by hundreds of positively glowing reviews. From innovative, plant-based takes on comforting favorites like lasagna and tacos to approachable, DIY nut- and plant-milk recipes, these cookbooks have it all. Feel inspired in your kitchen again and browse through our whole-food-focused picks.
15 Best Brain-Boosting Foods You Should Stock Your Fridge With ASAP
Going for a jog, tackling a crossword puzzle, and learning a new language are all excellent ways to stimulate your brain and keep your memory sharp. But what about the food you're eating? There are plenty of healthy, antioxidant-rich, brain-boosting foods that can boost your mood, stop aging, and keep your brain young and thriving.
It's never too early to think about your brain health and staving off cognitive decline. Plus, what you eat can have a serious impact on your mood and energy levels. Stock up on these brain-boosting foods for not only a healthy body, but also a healthy brain.
I Went on a Budget-Friendly Detox For 3 Days, and Here’s What I Learned
Budget-friendly detox - that's what I called it on Facebook, Instagram, and other places when I decided to do a three-day cleanse of toxins in my body. The truth is, my friends wanted to do a cleanse and I kept putting it off. A big deterrent for me was my budget. It's been tight recently and we don't have an extra cushion for expensive juices, equipment, or a ton of specialized ingredients. But after coming off of weeks of being sick, screwing up my menstrual cycle, and generally feeling bloated and awful, I needed to make a significant change.
Experience tells me that whenever I take care of my gut, my whole body feels better. It's like my GI tract sets the tone for how I experience life. At this juncture, I decided it was time for a detox. Here's how it went down.
The List
For my cleanse, I relied on the following staples:
- Water: half my weight in ounces (it's a lot!), hot lemon water in the morning, and one cup with cider vinegar added per day
- A big pot of vegetable beef soup: I made the choice to include meat because I know my body loves protein. My soup included some fast-friendly things like miso broth, turmeric, chia seeds, and a lot of hearty vegetables
- Overnight chia seed pudding: it's tastier than it looks
- Herbal tea and one cup of coffee with milk a day: you should avoid caffeine in your detox if possible
- Emergency snacks: anything high-protein, high-fiber, or high in healthy fats. I used Chia Squeeze packets, cashews, and flax tortillas. Other options could include avocados, quinoa, eggs, olives, kale, or any cruciferous veggies
- Optional probiotics
The budget-friendly detox is similar to a fast because it requires few ingredients, most of which are household items for many people. This is especially true those for who already have to cook for families with a wide variety of nutritional needs. For me, only a couple of specialized ingredients were needed.
The list is flexible and can be made to your specification with things you have at home. You can find good detox recipes online and sub ingredients to meet your requirements. I was able to do all of this using ingredients I already had at home.
Day 1: In the Beginning
The first day was relatively easy. I used MyFitnessPal to log my food as I wanted to have accountability for the foods I ate and also wanted to make sure I ate enough calories to sustain me. I ate shy of 800 calories and drank over 100 ounces of water. I drank herbal tea and a cup of probiotic juice. I mixed lemon and apple cider vinegar into cups of water.
By the end of day one, I was surprised that I didn't feel famished, my energy levels were high, and I felt comfortably full all day.
Day 2: My Cup Runneth Over
Day two started off with a cup of hot water and lemon. After that, I was working and forgot to drink water throughout the first two or three hours of my day. This seemed to set the tone for the whole day. Even though I caught up on my 100 ounces of water consumption, I couldn't really shake the hungry feeling that had developed by midmorning.
I consumed about 1,800 calories in detox-friendly foods in addition to my water and water mixtures. This included chia pudding, nuts, homemade detox-friendly soup, a high-fiber vegan burger patty, and more. I was pleasantly surprised by the amount and quality of food I was able to eat while detoxing my body.
Day 3: Reflections
My last day of budget-friendly detox was more similar to my second day than the first. I was hungry but I ate fewer calories, keeping the whole day around 1,400. I noted some things about my body during the fast on my final day:
- My energy levels had increased in a positive way
- Bathroom trips were frequent; detoxing means you have to eliminate toxins often
- The result was a fast jump-start to weight loss: three pounds in three days
- I felt less bloated and, being that it was that I was on my period, I had fewer PMS symptoms
Naysayers will say, "It's only water weight!" and that's true. But it's an excellent way to feel better while cleansing your body and kick-starting a weight-loss campaign that comes from a renewed interest in living a healthy lifestyle.
What Did I Learn?
As for my lifestyle going forward, there are definitely a few things I'm going to keep implementing.
- Remembering to drink enough water every day
This is an important one for me, as my busy work-at-home, coffee-and-wine lifestyle can make it easy to forget about self-care - Apple cider and vinegar water makes your body feel great
I'll definitely incorporate this lesson into my daily drinking habits - Probiotics are important
I included probiotic juice in my detox and immediately felt GI relief - Bona fide member of the Period-Cleanse-Club
Budget-friendly detoxing in sync with my menstrual cycle offered surprising benefits to my period symptoms
Self-care is tough and money is tight. For too many women, this combination makes it feel like doing anything for yourself is a futile effort. But keeping your GI tract healthy is important for a lot of functions, not just feeling good. That's because what you put into your body and what you get out of it go hand in hand. Doing something as simple as a three-day cleanse can reset energy levels and mood, stimulate weight loss and mental focus, increase your activity level, and more.
I strongly encourage any woman who's looking for budget-friendly reset options to grab a jug of water and get started. Most likely, you already have everything you need to detox and feel great.
How I Burned 1,000 Calories by Sitting in a Sweaty Sleeping Bag and Watching TV
Want to burn 1,000 calories in one sitting? Same. Which is why one week ago, I found myself sweating profusely from my earlobes while wrapped inside of a glowing hot sleeping bag.
The concept of sweating for health is nothing new. Native Americans have embraced ceremonial sweat lodges for eons, and Scandinavians (the creators of "hygge") are masters of the sauna. But now with the invention of FAR infrared technology, the modern sauna experience is next level. Places like Shape House in Los Angeles and New York claim that one session spent in their hot-pocket-esque infrared bags will burn between 800 and 1,600 calories, improve your skin and sleep quality, and detox you to an exponential degree. Selena Gomez says it's her little secret; Emma Roberts loves the glow; LL Cool J says it helps him stay cut. And all you have to do is lie down and watch TV. Sign. Me. Up.
I chose a rainy Saturday morning for my first session. I prepared by eating a healthy dinner of grilled salmon and asparagus the night before and a light snack (banana) plus plenty of water shortly before my session. You can wear pretty much anything because Shape House provides a cozy cotton outfit during your sweatventure. Still, I chose a loose cotton hoodie and leggings because as much as you'll want to, they encourage you not to shower for a while afterward in order to gently wind down the sweating process. A quick change into a long-sleeved cotton tee, cotton pants, and thick socks provided upon check-in, and off I went into the darkness.
The "urban sweat lodge" houses several beds all lined up but separated by curtains for privacy (if you want it) or left open if you're sweating with a buddy. Each person gets their own TV, complete with HBO, Netflix, Hulu, and all the shows. An attendant tucked me into my sack, sat a bottle of water by my bed, and showed me how to navigate the Roku before leaving me to sweat out my demons toxins. The introduction video helped me understand what to expect, which was about 20 minutes of cozy resting followed by 35 minutes of gradually increasing heat that makes you sweat from places you didn't know had pores.
I've never been one for extreme heat. Saunas aren't my favorite, and Bikram yoga is my personal hell. So I'll admit that I was mildly terrified. Thankfully, I needn't have worried, because if you do get panicky, the body bag opens easily by Velcro, or you can simply slip out your arms anytime. The attendant checks on you twice, but I passed the time easily with a few minutes of meditation followed by an episode of HBO's Girls. The worst discomfort that I experienced was the residual effects of the aforementioned asparagus. Apparently not the best choice before an inside-out detox. But if ever I doubted the FAR infrared abilities to pull out toxins, all doubts vanished with the pungent reminder of last night's meal. I kept thinking that this would be a great hangover recovery tool after a night of too much wine.
The 55 minutes were over before I knew it, and it was time to cool down in a little Zen room with fresh oranges, more water, and hot tea. Eventually I ditched the mop of soggy cotton clothing swathing my body, resisted the urge to shower (showers are available if you choose to ignore their advice of waiting an hour), changed back into my own hoodie, and headed home.
So was the sweaty experience worth it for more than just a funny Instagram Story? I spent the rest of the day feeling calm, slept like a baby, and woke up the next day to jeans that fit just a little bit looser. On Monday, I bought a package of three sweat sessions at Shape House. Rainy days when I need to warm up? Lazy days when I can't make it to the gym? Bloated days when my jeans feel like a death sentence? You ain't got nothin' on me and my hot pocket.
2 Training Techniques That Will Transform Your Hamstrings
When I started my fitness journey, I loved training my legs and glutes. With very few mobility issues and strong quads, I killed every workout that included squats and deadlifts. Lucky me? Not quite. What bothered me was that I always had nonexistent hamstrings, and the prospect of muscular imbalances quickly developing from my love of squats and deadlifts freaked me out. I had to figure out a solution for my lagging hamstrings.
While I had the strength-training component down, I found that plyometrics was the missing piece. Since I knew from research that hamstrings are made up of mostly fast-twitch muscle fibers (the kind that responds to heavy weights and fast movements), and as the wannabe scientist that I am, I experimented and combined the two concepts. What do you know? I started seeing a dramatic change within a few weeks.
Here's how I did it: I completed one heavy set of a hamstring exercise, then followed it up with plyometric movement. At the end of it, if I was walking out of the gym with heavy legs, I knew I trained them just right. I strongly recommend trying it for yourself and with different combinations. Pairing the following exercises together is my favorite combo.
Yes, You Can Lose Belly Fat Without Working Out - Here's How
Losing belly fat is no easy feat. It requires you to work hard and pay close attention to your daily habits. You might think that working out for hours on end is the best way to shed excess fat around your midsection, but that's not true. You can lose belly fat without exercising at all, in fact, as long as you make the right choices. Maybe you're injured and physically can't work out or you just don't have as much time to get to the gym as you used to. Either way, here are seven ways you can reduce belly fat without working out.
Considering a Wellness Retreat? 6 Reasons You Should Book It ASAP
When I was blessed with the opportunity to go on a wellness vacation with my best friend, I hopped at the chance. We boarded the plane from Michigan and flew to Hilton Head Health in the charming state of South Carolina. As the taxi driver drove us in, part of me wished we were going on a regular beach vacation where we sipped fancy cocktails and ate greasy food, instead of a health getaway where fitness instructors would tell us to hold our planks longer.
Before the wellness trip, I was reasonably healthy. I'd do my best to eat well and work out during the week, but the weekends were another story. I'd splurge on drinks, fatty foods, and plenty of desserts. I come from a family that absolutely loves to eat, and I had no idea what portion control meant.
While I was curious and excited about the wellness trip, I was downright nervous, too. Now that I'm back to regular life, I can firmly say that it was a life-changing experience. If you're planning to take a trip soon, here are a few reasons you may want to consider a health vacation!
- The team environment is incredibly motivating. From the moment we arrived, the atmosphere at our resort was warm and welcoming. Guests walked around sweaty and smiling - proud of themselves for kicking ass and eating well. The staff embraced us as though it was the fifth time we had visited, almost like we were family. During the classes, we all high-fived each other regardless of where we were in our healthy journey.
- There are so many fitness classes, you'll have no excuse. My friend and I tried everything: weight training, yoga, pool aerobics, Tabata, treading, Pilates, and even just learning how to properly stretch. These fitness classes revitalized my body and rejuvenated my soul.
- The food? It's good. Upon our first meal, I sat stunned in the resort's elegant dining room. Not only was my Asian rice bowl delicious, but it was filling, too. All of the meals were freshly prepared, tasty, and satisfying. I grew a new understanding about how much food I should actually be eating for my body type. We weren't denied anything, either. It wasn't a "no-carb" kitchen where all the food was raw. We could eat healthy snacks throughout the day and even enjoy the occasional dessert. I finally learned how to enjoy the right amount of food that my body needed to use for fuel . . . a crazy idea called portion control.
- Cooking classes are also on the menu. The health resort offered cooking classes so we could learn how to prepare the healthy meals in the comfort of our own homes. I've even tried some of the recipes in my own kitchen, and they taste just as good as the head chef said they would.
- This is the type of vacation that leaves you energized. That old saying "I need a vacation from my vacation"? Yeah, we didn't feel that way. Throughout our time on our wellness vacation, we rented bicycles and breathed in the beautiful island. Instead of letting the sun burn us all day while we sipped on sugary cocktails, we enjoyed the beach for a couple short hours while snacking on almonds. It wasn't the picture of vacations in the past, but it sure was much healthier and even more enjoyable.
- The learning doesn't stop when you leave. Since we've been home, my best friend and I text each other pictures of our meals - keeping each other in check. We talk about our weekly workout plans and encourage each other just like the staff did at Hilton Head Health.
Our life-changing wellness vacation jump-started my health and fitness routine and made me realize that life is too short to not take care of my body. I've learned that vacations don't have to be filled with drinks, the sun, too much food, and soaking up every single experience you can - coming home with a new, healthy mindset means so much more. So if you are starting to plan an exciting vacation, consider indulging in one that your mind and body will thank you for.
This Tool Changed My Morning Routine, and It's Under $9 on Amazon
Brushing your teeth isn't something you think that much about; it should be an integral part of your morning and nighttime routine. But lately, I've been waking up in the morning feeling a desperate need to brush my teeth, and I started to look into some solutions to maintain my oral health and hygiene beyond just brushing and flossing. One of the things I kept hearing about was tongue scraping, and when the barista at my local coffee shop couldn't stop raving about it, I saw it as a sign that I had to give it a try.
I ordered the Natural Ayurvedic Tongue Cleaner by Spa Elevation ($9) and it has kind of changed my life. I use it every morning after I've brushed my teeth, and my whole mouth feels cleaner. The design is pretty straightforward; you simply hold it on each side and scrape from the back of your mouth forward. This daily practice has also inspired me to brush my teeth and clean my tongue first thing in the morning. If I take a sip of water or eat something before I've brushed my teeth, then I'm essentially swallowing all of the bacteria I'm trying to get rid of, and that doesn't make any sense.
When purchasing this tongue cleaner, I had no idea how much it would alter my daily routine. Now, I can't imagine waking up and not cleaning my tongue, and I'm even considering buying a second one to keep in my travel cosmetics case so I never forget it. It's an awesome jump-start to my day, and an easy way to prioritize your health in the morning. Seriously, what are you waiting for?!
Burn Fat and Build Muscle With This Upper-Body Dumbbell Workout (Suitable For All Levels!)
If you want to increase your upper-body strength and start seeing muscle definition in your arms, you've got to start doing upper-body workouts. Your arms aren't going to transform over night or by doing an arm workout once in a blue moon.
To see more definition in your arms, implement this program into your routine at least two times a week and make sure you're selecting weights that will challenge you. If you're consistent with the program, you should begin to see results around the four- to six-week mark.
The workout:
- Before you jump into the workout, be sure to warm up. This can be achieved by doing a light jog on the treadmill and/or plank walkouts.
- Complete three sets of 12 reps for each exercise before advancing to the following exercise.
- Take 60 seconds of rest in between each set, and no more than 90 seconds of rest as you transition between exercises.
- If you're a beginner, use seven and a half to 10 pound dumbbells. If you're more advanced, use 10 to 20 pound dumbbells.
- Don't forget to cool down after your workout.
Do These 10 Things to Lose Fat and Keep It Off
You know what to do to lose fat, but the most difficult part of that equation is how to keep it off. Here are 10 expert tips to help you lose weight at a manageable pace, so you can maintain the new, slimmer, stronger you.
I Freed Myself From Bloating With These 3 Simple Diet Tweaks
Bloating is a widespread epidemic that many women suffer from on a daily basis. Not only is it annoying, but it usually means our body isn't processing or digesting food properly. I work out at least four days a week and have a relatively healthy diet, but despite my efforts, I still felt perpetually bloated and uncomfortable. Feeling frustrated and hopeless, I asked my trainer what else I could do to get rid of this annoying feeling. I made three small tweaks to my daily diet and lost five pounds in one week, eliminating the endless bloat I felt. Here's how I did it.
I Drank Lots of Water
When my trainer told me to drink a gallon of water a day, I thought he was crazy. I told him there was no way my body could even manage that amount of water. I thought for sure downing a gallon of water would only make me feel more bloated. Despite my griping, he told me to give it a try, so I did. To be honest, I did feel a little more bloated for the first day or two, but per his instructions, I was patient. After a week, to my surprise, it actually worked. Don't get me wrong, though, I had to pee a lot.
Drinking a gallon of water a day allowed me to flush out all the excess salt and sugar in my system that was already making me bloated. After the first week, I didn't have to continue my gallon a day challenge, but I do still aim to drink about 128 ounces of water a day. Not only does water help regulate your system, but it also manages hunger.
I Added Fiber to My Diet
My next task was to add fiber into my diet, ideally into every meal. So I added ground flax seeds to my morning oatmeal and various veggies throughout the day like celery. I work a desk job, so I munch on celery a lot when I'm hungry between meals. These fiber-enriched foods are also low in calories, making me feel fuller for longer.
Fiber helped my bloating because I wasn't overeating, so I was eliminating extra calories, also contributing to weight loss. It also helps with constipation, which can cause gas and bloating. The weird thing is that your body can't actually digest fiber, so when you eat it, your body is working harder and you're actually burning more calories than the calories in the food itself.
I Cut Back on Sugar
This task was probably the hardest one on my list. I love to put copious amounts of cream and sugar in my coffee to start off my day. I also work in an office setting so someone usually has a sugary treat that I can't pass up. This was part of my problem, though, so getting rid of those "treats" was necessary. Don't get me wrong, I didn't go crazy and eliminate every source of sugar in my diet – just refined sugar. A lot of foods naturally have some sugar in them, and that's OK, but my days of drinking sugar-infused coffee and soda were over. Hello, black coffee.
Cutting back on my sugar intake would make sure I didn't undo the damage that I worked so hard to correct. I didn't want any more unnecessary sugar sitting in my system making me feel bloated. Honestly, the more I cut sugar out, the less I craved it. Soon enough, if I had sugary coffee, it was actually too much for me. I preferred black.
Bloating is different for everyone, and what worked for me may not work for you. It takes practice and patience to figure out how your body responds to certain foods. I get it, sometimes you just want to throw your hands up in the air and give up – don't, though. Just keep going until you find what's right.
4 Factors That Contribute to Belly Fat - and How to Combat Them
Sometimes I look at myself naked in the mirror and tilt my head in confusion about why some parts of my body seem to store more fat than other parts of my body. Take my stomach, for example. It doesn't matter how many sit-ups I do or how long I hold the plank position, getting rid of belly fat seems like an impossible mission.
Of course, diet and exercise are always a good way to start when looking to get in shape and ditch some of the fat around your belly, but there are also other things that you might not even realize are going into the reason why getting rid of belly fat is harder to do than you think.
Here are four factors that contribute to belly fat and what you need to know about each one.
1. Stress
It's a fact that stress can wreak havoc on your body, but you may not know that it can target your belly.
Julie Adams of Thrive to Glow Health Coaching says that stress can keep your body storing fact in your belly because of an overproduction of cortisol when a person is dealing with a lot.
"One's body is stuck in the 'fight or flight' mode which turns the 'fat switch' on in order to protect from a future danger (think famine)," says Adams. "This is an ancient mechanism that has proven to serve us well when needed - sadly, it's not always needed!"
Adams explains that when a woman is stressed, she gains weight (particularly in her midsection) as her body is trying to protect her. In order to alleviate the effects of stress, Adams says the body craves the opposite of stress - relaxation and bliss.
"We gravitate toward sugar, carbs, caffeine, alcohol - anything to help us relax," says Adams. "Sadly, this does not cure anything and typically leads to weight gain."
2. Hormones
A lot happens to our bodies when our hormones are out of whack, and one of those things could be belly fat.
Armen Ghazarians, the CEO of Finish Fit, LLC, says that one such hormone that can contribute to abdominal fat deposits in women is estrogen.
"Estrogen is produced by fat cells, which in turn cause fat production," says Ghazarians. "This cycle of hormone and fat cell production is what causes abdominal fat gain."
Ghazarians suggests increasing fiber intake, adding indoles (broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower), and increasing fatty acids in your diet to regulate your belly fat.
3. Diet
It's no surprise that food plays a large role in your gut health. According to Ghazarians, studies have shown that you should use the following macronutrient breakdown in your diet (carbohydrates = 25 percent, proteins = 40 percent, and fats = 35 percent) to help burn the maximum amount of belly fat.
Ghazarians also recommends staying away from sugar or sweetened drinks, eating protein with every meal, and reducing the refined carbs in your diet.
4. Insulin Resistance
Dr. Barry Sears, a leader in the field of anti-inflammatory nutrition and author of the Zone Diet book, says that excess belly fat is partially genetic but primarily driven by increased insulin resistance.
"Increased insulin resistance is a consequence of inflammation that disrupts the signaling between the insulin receptor and the interior of the cells," says Dr. Sears. "This results in visceral (belly fat) that is stored in all the wrong places and causes significant inflammation. Visceral fat accumulates with decreasing estrogen levels. As estrogen levels decrease, insulin levels increase and drives dietary fat into storage in the fat cells and prevent its release for energy production."
Dr. Sears recommends reducing insulin resistance caused by inflammation to lose excess belly fat.
"It is insulin resistance that causes cells to accumulate excess fat," says Dr. Sears. "Only by reducing it can the stored fat leave the tissue to be burned as fuel for energy. In order to use stored fat for energy, you have to reduce your calorie intake to reduce diet-induced inflammation."
The Tone It Up Girls Share an Exclusive 10-Minute HIIT Workout - No Equipment Needed!
You've likely heard of Katrina and Karena, the mastermind powerhouse women behind Tone It Up, the online program that has helped thousands of women lose weight and feel their best. Whether you love Tone It Up or you've never heard of the program, you're in for a treat. Katrina and Karena have provided an exclusive HIIT workout for POPSUGAR, and it only takes 10 minutes to complete!
"High-intensity interval training (HIIT) is one of our absolute favorite workouts! HIIT combines short bursts of high-intensity moves with total-body toning exercises to boost your metabolism and sculpt your entire body fast!" Tone It Up told POPSUGAR. "With HIIT workouts, your metabolism will also be revved long after your workout ends so you'll be burning up and glowing all day long!"
Karena and Katrina like to incorporate HIIT sessions into their routine "at least twice a week." This particular session doesn't require any equipment whatsoever. "All you need for this routine is a mat and your A game!" they said. "You'll feel absolutely amazing after!"
"Do each move for 30 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds," they told us. "Repeat the circuit for a total of three rounds. Rest for up to one minute in between rounds." If you want some more support in your diet and fitness routine, check out the Studio Tone It Up App for "tons of booty-kicking workouts, including HIIT, strength training, yoga, barre, dance cardio, and more."
The Most Important Piece of Advice I Give to People Who Want to Go Vegan
I've been vegan for a few years and I've loved every second of my plant-based journey. I'm also a nutrition coach who helps clients change their eating habits so they can feel their very best each and every day. Yes, going vegan can be a tough transition, but only if you don't do it the right way.
There's a lot of guidance I give to clients and friends who are looking to go vegan, but there's one nugget of advice that trumps them all: make the changes gradually. You can't expect to see anything different if you try to give up everything in one fell swoop. I see too many people make that mistake. They swear they're giving up dairy or meat forever, and then three days later, they're craving a creamy yogurt so badly that they go overboard and eat too much ice cream.
Rather than going cold turkey, think about how often you eat meat. If it's once a day, cut back to four times a week. The following week, only eat meat two or three times a week, and so on and so forth. This allows your body to get used to the changes you're creating, and it will make it much easier to stick to it in the long run. Plus, you will start to notice the positive benefits as they gradually show up in your body and mind. You'll actually want to eat more and more plants as time goes on.
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