August 23, 2019 at 08:10PM by CWC If the idea of sitting down to a well-rounded breakfast each morning before work is enough to make you laugh (Next you’ll be asking if I have time to read the newspaper!), a smoothie might seem like the perfect on-the-go option. What’s better for an over-scheduled young professional than a commute-friendly meal? I don’t know, maybe something that won’t leave you ravenous and hangry an hour later? “The sugar content—regardless if it’s from fruit or not—can easily climb up to 50 grams of sugar in some smoothies,” Well+Good Council member McKel Kooienga, RD and founder of Nutrition Stripped, recently posted on Instagram. “For some people and scenarios, that may work really well for their body, but for others, it may be too much at one serving without properly balancing it with protein, fiber, vegetables (like greens), and healthy fats.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by by McKel Kooienga, MS, RD, LDN (@nutritionstripped) on Aug 7, 2019 at 5:05am PDT //www.instagram.com/embed.js For a more balanced blend (re: one that won’t sound you soaring on a sugar high only to crash later), Kooienga recommends swapping your smoothie’s typical frozen bananas for zucchini. “Zucchinis have a very neutral taste, add fiber, [and] give smoothies a great creamy texture,” she says. “[They] also add nutrients like potassium, manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin A.” ad_intervals[‘417863_div-gpt-ad-8891272-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘417863_div-gpt-ad-8891272-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8891272-3’);}); } }, 100); Bonus: “They’re super easy to freeze—meaning less
Month: August 2019
The top 10 under $10 clean skin-care buys you can get at the drugstore
August 23, 2019 at 07:39PM by CWC Treating yourself to great, clean skin care does not—I repeat, does not—have to mean emptying your wallet for the sake of the cause. In fact, you can get a radiant face, by way of ingredients that don’t belong on a “hazardous waste” list, for less than the cost of a Sweetgreen salad. Don’t believe me? In addition to all of the amazing drugstore products that are already out there, Walmart just launched a skin-care line of its own. It’s called “Earth to Skin” in which everything is under $10… and the products look really, really good. The 28 products use power-packed, all-natural ingredients like watermelon, green tea, and avocado to help with all kinds of skin concerns. And it got us thinking about all of the other under-$10 skin-care products you can already buy at the drugstore. Spoiler alert: There are a whole lot of them. Scroll through to shop the top-10 editor-approved under-$10 beauty buys. Your digital skin-care cart has never felt more affordable. ad_intervals[‘417888_div-gpt-ad-7520022-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘417888_div-gpt-ad-7520022-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-7520022-3’);}); } }, 100); Photo: Thayers Thayer’s Witch Hazel Alcohol Free Toner ($9) There’s a reason why this all-natural toner is consistently a best-seller on Amazon. It’s made with rose petals and aloe, and the ingredient combo tightens pores, controls the production of oil, and locks in moisture—all while protecting your skin from free radicals. Photo: Simple Simple Cleansing Facial Wipes ($6) Facial cleansing wipes often get a bad rap
This easy fitness tracker hack will make sure you’re actually getting *all* those steps in
August 23, 2019 at 07:25PM by CWC It’s easy to become thigh-crampingly fanatical about counting your steps. Despite the naysayers who claim there’s no science behind the 10,000-steps-a-day-for-health benchmark, there’s something satisfying about hitting that milestone. It’s like a shiny badge that says, “Even if I skipped SoulCycle today, I have proven to the universe that I did more than sit at my desk for nine hours and watch Buffy in bed for another four hours.” But what’s devastating is learning, like I did today, that your fitness tracking device—your sophisticated and expensive device—might not be giving you an accurate read on your step habits. Like, really, you had one job. While wearable step counters, like your smartwatch or Fitbit, are more accurate than your garden variety iPhone app, slapping something on your wrist can capture weird gestures and mistake it for steps. Well, get this: One easy way to make step count more accurate is by switching your device to your non-dominant hand. Seriously! ad_intervals[‘417893_div-gpt-ad-9261280-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘417893_div-gpt-ad-9261280-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-9261280-3’);}); } }, 100); So why does it matter which hand you use? Chances are that you’re using your dominant hand more often, whether it’s to write your daily to-do list, scramble through your purse for one particular lip balm, chop vegetables for a meal-prepped lunch that will live and die in your refrigerator… you know. But because fitness trackers are neurotic creatures, all that movement can be misinterpreted as steps, and that’s aggravating. You can’t do the
How mentally tough are you? There’s now a 10-question quiz for that
August 23, 2019 at 06:54PM by CWC Now that I’ve kicked off my training for the New York Marathon, my desire for the elusive skill known as “mental toughness” has reached an all-time-high. Oxford Reference defines the trait—nay, superpower, really— as “a quality of mind or intellect characterized by, among other things, a refusal to be intimidated, a determination to finish a contest even when things are going badly, and an ability to control emotions and remain highly focused when under the pressure of intense competition.” Obviously, it’s an invaluable trait on race day, but it also goes a long way at the office and, like, when you’re waiting in line for coffee. And now, you can take a 10-question quiz to determine how much mental fortitude you already possess. In the past, the quiz, known as the 48-Item Mental Toughness Questionnaire (or MTQ-48), had been shortened to 18 questions (making it the MTQ-18). This week, a research team led by Neil Dagnall, PhD, of the University of Manchester confirmed that a new, 10-question version can accurately pinpoint a person’s mental toughness, reports Psychology Today. In short, you can now litmus test your mental flexing faster than you can fill out the forms at the DMV. ad_intervals[‘417879_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘417879_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’);}); } }, 100); Each MTQ version asks the participants to respond to “I” statements (like, “I generally feel in control”) that correspond with what are known as the “4Cs.” This model was designed by Peter Clough,
8 top trainers name their favorite triceps exercises—and there’s not a dip in sight
August 23, 2019 at 05:24PM by CWC Can we get a show of hands from those who despise triceps exercises? Oh, cool, everyone? Out of all the different ways you can work out your arms, there’s really no burn like a triceps burn. But there’s no need to continue doing dips day after day to work the back of your arms, and your favorite trainers have proof. I asked a crew of exercise pros to share their favorite moves for tight, toned tris, and they more than delivered. Whether you’re doing a round of skull crushers or using nothing but a jumprope, read on for the triceps exercises that will leave your arm muscles sore until further notice—and will keep you from getting bored on upper body day. 1. Dumbbell pushups into skull crushers “I like this combination because it starts with a big muscle group working to total fatigue. Then, after your arms feel like noodles, we move right into the triceps skull crushers, which are a safe way to set the triceps on fire.” —Ashley Borden, celebrity personal trainer ad_intervals[‘417544_div-gpt-ad-9261280-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘417544_div-gpt-ad-9261280-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-9261280-3’);}); } }, 100); How to do dumbbell pushups: Use a pair of dumbbells that are 15 lbs. or heavier for your grip. The heavier dumbbells have thicker handles, which are easier on your hands. Place the dumbbells on the floor vertically, a little closer than your shoulder width. Angle the top of the dumbbells inward about five degrees. Grip
These are the best healthy salads to order at Chotp’d, according to a dietitian
August 23, 2019 at 04:58PM by CWC You’ve already scored a healthy win just by making Chopt’d your lunch or dinner destination; anything greens or grains-based is loaded with fiber. But just like at any other restaurant, if you ascribe to a specific eating plan, there are certain factors to consider when making your pick. If you’re keto, for example, some veggies (like corn) are too high in carbs to technically be “allowed” as part of the diet. And if you’re vegan, you might have to make some substitutions when it comes to the protein in your bowl and be extra conscious when choosing the dressing. That’s where this handy little cheat sheet comes in. Here, registered dietitian Karen Collins, RD, gives her recs on the best Chop’t salads for three majorly popular eating plans: ketogenic, vegan, and Mediterranean diet. Even if your dietary habits don’t fall into one of those three buckets, you can still use her advice to craft a nutrient-dense, super healthy meal for yourself. ad_intervals[‘416576_div-gpt-ad-8891272-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘416576_div-gpt-ad-8891272-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-8891272-3’);}); } }, 100); Ketogenic diet Menu picks: Kale Caesar; Mexican Caesar What an RD says: While there are several salads on the menu full of keto staples like chicken, eggs, and avocado, Collins says both the classic kale Caesar and the Mexican Caesar (which has a spicier dressing, jalepeno peppers, cotija cheese instead of Parmesan, and tortilla chips instead of croutons) are her top picks. The kale Caesar has 12 grams of
Etiquette experts lay out how to RSVP ‘no’ to anything without having a single regret
August 23, 2019 at 04:00PM by CWC As a social human being in her mid-thirties, I’d venture to say that I’m not alone in my current state of drowning in invitations to weddings, baby showers, housewarming parties, and general “just-because!” girls’ weekends. In fact, I know I’m not alone; I’ve seen the surface of plenty of other people’s refrigerators covered in card stock and magnets to prove it. And for a number of reasons, including financial restraints, scheduling conflicts, and plain-old not wanting to, I’ve RSVP’d “no” to many a celebratory occasion for which the honor of my presence was requested. I often feel guilty about passing up these events, so I’m left wondering how to decline an invitation (for literally any reason) without feeling like a total A-hole. And, furthermore, when you check the “with regrets” box of an RSVP card, is there any reason to explain why? Does doing so provide context the host will appreciate, or more so function as word vomit that will only liken you to them even less? Clearly in need of some help in the department of knowing how to decline an invitation like a pro, I wanted called upon the only people I can really trust on the matter: etiquette experts. Below, they share everything you (fine, I) need to know so I never have to regret sending in my “regrets” to party hosts. ad_intervals[‘397337_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘397337_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’);}); } }, 100); Your “thanks, but no can
How many times can I wear the same PJs before it’s, well, gross?
August 23, 2019 at 03:00PM by CWC I’ve always lived my life by the Two Night Pajama Rule—the unofficial (and unscientific) belief that sporting the same PJs for consecutive sleeps is fine. Just fine. But now that curiosity has led me to consult the experts, I’ve discovered that every two-night stand I’ve had with my nightgowns, boxers, and T-shirts has been a filthy lie. Or, to state it in a less dramatic manner, in some situations it’s as gross as wearing the same socks for days on end. Leanne Stapf, COO of The Cleaning Authority, paints me a powerful visual of why my worn-to-threads “Strand Bookstore” T-shirt should ideally land in the hamper after one overnight wear. “Many people assume that pajamas don’t get dirty because they aren’t worn outside and only when sleeping. However, that’s not the case,” she says. “In addition to the buildup of overnight perspiration, our skin is constantly shedding. Those dead skin cells coupled with the germs accumulated from daily activities are now being transferred to your pajamas.” That’s extra true if you have a full, active day and don’t shower before slipping into your jammies. In this case, the evening following will call for a new set, no questions asked. ad_intervals[‘417754_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘417754_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’);}); } }, 100); When you’re considering whether or not any garment (nightwear or otherwise) needs to be washed, Clean My Space blogger Melissa Maker has a hot tip: the closer something lies to your
If a conditioner and hair spray had a baby, it would be these spray-everywhere hair milks
August 23, 2019 at 02:00PM by CWC I cut dairy from my diet completely for over two years, but when it came to my beauty routine, I was all about the stuff. If it were feasible in today’s world, I’d even bathe in milk à la Cleopatra. Case in point: Milky cleansers are my jam, I’ve used coconut milk to replenish my strands, and now, I’m going to sing the praises of hair milks. Though I’m a noob to these, I’m a newfound believer—because hair milks are a luxe way to refresh, add shine, and hydrate your hair, all with a few spritzes. “Think of hair milk like a moisturizer for your hair,” says Kerry E. Yates, beauty expert, trichologist in training, and CEO of Colour Collective. “Hair milks are designed to be treatments, because they aim to improve hair suppleness by re-moisturizing the dry areas.” It’s actually like a treatment-slash-styler all in one, which makes the milks rehab strands and provide just enough of a hold to help hair do its thing. “Hair milks don’t have a thick, heavy feel as they’re meant to be used as treatments that can be easily distributed from the mid-lengths to the ends,” says Yates. “They don’t contain heavy styling resins, which are used to help mold your strands into a particular shape.” Instead, she points out that hair milks merely enhance your hair’s natural texture. ad_intervals[‘412588_div-gpt-ad-7520022-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘412588_div-gpt-ad-7520022-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-7520022-3’);}); } }, 100); “Milk adds shine, promotes
Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about the scent of your vagina
August 23, 2019 at 01:00PM by CWC PSA: No two vaginas smell the same, and every vagina can put off a variety of scents. Meaning, there’s no single aromatic profile of a “healthy” vagina. Still, it’s worth noting that none of the smattering of “healthy” scents will call to mind “spring flowers” or “delicate blossoms,” despite what a stroll down your local drugstore aisle may have you believe. Progress is being made in the vaginal-product realm (via an influx of vaginal-health products made by women for women that don’t attempt to alter the natural scent). But still, nothing should make a vulva-owner feel ashamed of or a need to question the way their vagina smells. “So long as it doesn’t have an infection, the way a vagina smells is natural and normal,” says OB/GYN Felice Gersh, MD, author of PCOS SOS: A Gynecologist’s Lifeline To Naturally Restore Your Rhythms, Hormones and Happiness. Adeeti Gupta, MD, founder of Walk In GYN Care, echoes this point: “To have a vagina that smells like vagina is to be someone who has a vagina. To think otherwise is a sad approach to the human body,” she says. ad_intervals[‘392911_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’] = setInterval(function () { if (ads_ready) { clearTimeout(ad_intervals[‘392911_div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’]); googletag.cmd.push(function(){googletag.display(‘div-gpt-ad-7435403-3’);}); } }, 100); So, what determines the way a vagina smells? In one word: bacteria. Like the gut, every vagina has its own ecosystem of bacteria (sometimes called a vagina microbiome) that keeps it healthy. “There are a billion ‘good’ bacteria in the vagina, called lactobacilli, which