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How Obamacare and Medicaid Save My Life Every Day

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Since Trump won the presidential election, I’ve been up to my eyeballs with stress over health care.

Our new president and Republican senators have expressed their desire countless times to repeal the Affordable Care Act and make cuts on Medicaid without coming up with an adequate replacement. As a chronically ill and mentally ill trans person, this terrifies me.

More: There's nothing like pregnancy to make losing health insurance terrifying

Thanks to Obamacare, I can stay on my parents’ insurance until I’m 26 (for another four years). This is essential to me as my disabilities have limited me regarding employment, and therefore I’m unable to pay for my own medical insurance. Insurance that pays for my heart medication, meant to treat a condition I acquired from a chronic infection. Insurance that pays for my psychoactive drugs that allow me to sleep and function normally by suppressing my bipolar symptoms. Insurance that will pay for my testosterone and gender-affirming procedures (if I rally hard enough for the latter).

When I suffered a breakdown last year, the outpatient facility (called Access: Supports For Living) I admitted myself to put my life back on track. To this day, I spend five hours a day there three times a week. Every day spent there, I get stronger and more balanced. But if cuts are made to Medicaid, the agency that fueled this state-run program, my place of healing, will literally disappear. Countless times, my friends and I have expressed our anxiety over the facility shutting down. From much more functional folks like me to people with unmanageable personality disorders who’ve been in and out of prison, this place represents safety, understanding and new beginnings. But now, we fear that’s all in jeopardy.

More: A roundup of all the ways your health rights have been jeopardized this week

Without the Affordable Care Act, I won’t be able to be a functional member of society like I am now. I wouldn’t be able to pay for my medication and live my best life by working and going to school for social work. If I can’t work, then I can’t afford to buy the drugs that help me stay healthy. And with all my current ailments to deal with, I could never dream of being who I want to be, a person I can only live as if I transition. Medical bills for my heart and mental conditions would be too high for me to pay for anything “extra.”

Though Obamacare has its faults, it has helped so many folks like me find recovery and stay healthy. And when Republicans have no idea about a replacement and are seriously considering repealing the ACA without said replacement, it gives sick people like me enormous anxiety. Because before Trump, I truly took advantage of the fact that psychiatric drugs and treatment centers are so readily available to me. I took advantage of the fact that I could stay on my parents’ health insurance while I’m in school and don’t have to worry about working on top of it. I took advantage of the idea that there was a concrete future for me as a man with gender-affirming procedures.

More: Last night’s Senate Obamacare repeal vote was terrible for women

For many cis, neurotypical and/or able-bodied folks, it’s even easier to take advantage of the privilege health insurance affords you. Your faith is probably shaken, like mine. But remember all of the disabled and neurodivergent people during this time and how ACA’s repeal can and will mean death for many. Think of us and fight for our lives.

By Meg Zulch

Originally published on HelloFlo.


13 Aphrodisiac Foods to Eat for Hotter Sex

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They say you are what you eat, and while plenty of things we consume have a direct impact on our hormones, brain chemistry, energy and stress levels, some also may serve a much sexier purpose: aphrodisiacs. There’s a great deal of lore surrounding foods that supposedly boost your sex life, and throughout history, various edibles have been hailed as intense aphrodisiacs.

Of course, they don’t magically make sex better, but some really do boost body temperature, which makes us more susceptible to getting it on; some provide instant energy; some help produce sex hormones; and still others spark neurotransmitters that trigger feelings of love or arousal.

Next time you’re looking for something a little more than Marvin Gaye and candles to get in the mood, you might want to think about grabbing some silverware and digging into the below foods that can help you feel frisky.

More: A Porn Star’s Top 5 Tips for Sexual Confidence

Vanilla

Vanilla
Image: _____klr__/Instagram

Vanilla’s power is in its yummy aroma. Even before one morsel reaches the taste buds, the hypothalamus — the gland that controls memory and emotion — springs into action, evoking feelings connected with vanilla’s powerful scent. When consumed, vanilla improves sexual debilitation and kicks the central nervous system into gear, causing sensations to feel even better. Add a few drops of vanilla essence into your bath or devour ice cream made from this sweet bean after dinner.

Avocados

Avocados
Image: pereguinn/Instagram

Avocados are superfruits rich in antioxidants like vitamin E, potassium and vitamin B. They’re an amazing source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that may prevent heart disease and promote better blood flow — and make your stomach flatter!

Anything that helps your heart and circulation can also be critical for a healthy sex life. In addition, the vitamin E that is so good for your skin also helps your body churn out hormones likes testosterone, estrogen and progesterone, which circulate in your bloodstream and stimulate sexual responses.

Bananas

Bananas
Image: mateja_chickitamag/Instagram

Phallic allusions notwithstanding, bananas have a lot to offer when it comes to boosting sex drive. These fruits deliver a punch of potassium, a nutrient key to muscle strength (which might make orgasms extra-intense.) They’re also packed with nutrients like potassium and vitamin B, which are essential to sexual hormone production.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates
Image: sheilaflaherty/Instagram

Pomegranates owe their passion power to antioxidants — they protect the lining of blood vessels, allowing more blood to course through them. The upshot? Increased sensitivity.

Salmon

Salmon
Image: pintxoseattle/Instagram

You probably already know that salmon is a stellar source of omega-3 fatty acids that support a healthy heart as well as shiny hair and glowing skin. But you may not know the connection between steamed fish and a steamy night of passion. Those essential fatty acids also maintain hormone function and may raise dopamine levels in the brain to prime you for optimal arousal.

Hot Chilies

Hot Chilies
Image: kirbear84/Instagram

The chemical found in fiery peppers, called capsaicin, increases circulation to get blood pumping and stimulates nerve endings so you’ll feel more turned on.

Strawberries

Strawberries
Image: consumerr/Instagram

Good circulation is a benchmark of proper sexual functioning, and these berries are rich in antioxidants that benefit your heart and arteries. Bonus: Try dipping the berries in dark chocolate, another aphrodisiac food, which contains methylxanthines that may activate the libido.

Red wine

Red Wine
Image: lexxiroussos/Instagram

Wine is a classic aphrodisiac and a killer mood-setter. Not only does red vino combat free radicals, but it can also boost your libido. But be aware of how much you consume, as excess amounts of wine can lead to drowsiness, which is the last thing you want when trying to get it on.

Chocolate

Chocolate
Image: sarahgolezzz/Instagram

Pure dark chocolate in particular has a centuries-old reputation as an aphrodisiac. Cocoa contains the chemical phenylethylamine, a stimulant that that sparks dopamine production in the brain and conjures just the sort of subtle feelings of well-being and excitement that make sex seem like a great idea. The neurotransmitters serotonin and anandamide both contribute to feelings of happiness and euphoria during sex. And both are found in chocolate. Yum!

Watermelon

Watermelon
Image: wika717/Instagram

Rich in the plant nutrient citrulline, this summer fruit is known to have beneficial effects on the cardiovascular and immune systems. Citrulline increases nitric oxide, which opens blood vessels and speeds up circulation, contributing to increased arousal. There is also a study suggesting that watermelon may have Viagra-like effects on the body.

Honey

Honey
Image: junepuccini/Instagram

Honey is filled with B vitamins that support testosterone production, which can increase desire. It also contains the boron used in estrogen production that is important for female desire. Use it to sweeten a cup of tea, some yogurt, your oatmeal, or use it in marinades. If you can, try to use local raw and organic varieties.

Almonds

Almonds
Image: samanthahwrd/Instagram

Almonds have been a symbol of fertility throughout the ages, and — like vanilla — their aroma is thought to induce passion in women. These nuts are a rich source of essential fatty acids like omega-3s, which are needed for the production of hormones like testosterone. They also aid in reproductive function, fertility and a healthy libido.

Cherries

Cherries
Image: Grin Lamina/EyeEm/Getty Images

Cherries have a musky scent that is said to stimulate pheromone production. They contain tons of heart-regulating antioxidants, as well as feel-good vitamins A, C and E, plus potassium, which is necessary for producing sexual hormones.

Read more: http://stylecaster.com/12-aphrodisiac-foods-to-eat-for-hotter-sex/#ixzz4VaVl8ZkN

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Restaurants Spark Controversy by Banning Kids

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There are lots of places to eat with your children on a European vacation, but here's one place that won't let you in the door. A seafood restaurant in Rome, La Fraschetta del Pesce, has taken the bold move of banning children under 5.

The owner Marco Magliozzi (who refers to kids as "little uncontrollable terrors") told an Italian news site, "They throw olive oil on the floor, they upturn the water, they send the salt cellar flying across the room, they try to dismantle the furniture, they shout, they cry and above all, they hate fish."

Sounds like the fish put Magliozzi over the edge. (Not even the dismantling of the furniture did it!) So he posted a sign on the front door that reads, "Due to some unpleasant incidents caused by a lack of manners, children under 5 are not allowed in this restaurant."

More: Good-Kid Discounts: Coming to a Restaurant Near You, Maybe

Of course, there have been complaints — like a dad who was turned away with his 2-month-old baby. That newborn wouldn't have dismantled any furniture! I do remember taking my 2-month-old baby to a Mexican restaurant where she proceeded to cry endlessly. But I immediately took her outside. She later fell asleep and I ate a very cold quesadilla, but I never bothered any of the patrons.

And Rome's La Fraschetta del Pesce is not the only establishment giving little ones the boot. A London restaurant has also said hell no to kids. The owner (who is a mother) had had enough of the screaming, crying and SUV-size strollers blocking the path of waiters and customers in her small restaurant, The Organic Kitchen.

And parents went bloody crazy over the new policy. In fact, things got so heated on a British online parents forum, the thread had to be shut down.

But the restaurant held strong — releasing a statement on Facebook that says in part, "We have made this decision for the comfort of all of our clients and as a result of this the overwhelming reaction from the vast majority of our customers has been extremely positive."

More: The Craziest Moments of Parenting a Preschooler

Even as a parent, I kind of get it. My 3-year-old has been so awful sometimes in restaurants, I wanted to dine far away from him. But there is something insulting about being outright banned because you have a child with you. And some children are way more polite than adults.

My advice? Maybe just offer a small discount for well-behaved kids instead.

9 Things We Really Need to Stop Saying to Our Kids, Stat

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We've all gone there with our kids. Said something in the heat of the moment when we're scraping the bottom of the battery for juice and our kids just won't get the hint that we're completely spent and we actually don't even think we can parent for another second. It's when the words come out that we know won't help the situation and will possibly undo all the good parenting work we do the other 90 percent of the time.

More: 9 Questions Never to Ask a New Mom

It's OK to lose it once in a while — we're all human. But as parents, we have an obligation to think about what we say to our kids before we open our mouths. Here are nine things we shouldn't be saying to our children on a regular basis.

1. What's wrong with you?

Our kids depend on us for everything at every age and stage of their development. When we communicate to them that we can't figure them out (even if that is actually how we feel) we're basically telling them they can't count on us. "That's very unsettling to your dependent child," warns Vancouver-based child psychologist and parenting expert Dr. Vanessa Lapointe.

2. You owe me

Parenting isn't a payback system. Children don't ask to be born, and the responsibility for caring for them lies solely with their parents. "If you, as the adult you are, decide to gift your child something special, then allow that to sit as a 'gift' rather than a burden for them to bear," adds Lapointe.

3. Man up

Typically, the phrase "man up" is delivered with a laugh or a ruffle of the hair because it's all meant in fun, right? Perhaps that's the intention, but it's one of the most destructive phrases we can say to our kids according to documentary filmmaker Jennifer Siebel Newsom. In her 2015 film The Mask You Live In, Siebel Newsom condemns the short, heavily-gendered phrases that far too easily trip off parents' tongues. Instead, we need to teach our kids that strength and weakness have nothing to do with sex and gender.

More: How Teenagers Are Like Cats

4. You're so naughty

Young children believe everything their parents tell them, meaning giving our kids negative labels (you're so bad/naughty/stupid/lazy) can become a self-fulfilling prophecy and lead to low self-esteem. "It’s important not to personalize when providing discipline (i.e., we might say that someone’s behavior is not appropriate, which is very different than saying 'you are bad')," says New York-based clinical psychologist Jephtha Tausig-Edwards, known as Dr. Jeph.

5. You will do that because I am your mom and I said so

It's possible to be a strong, influential parent and a nurturing, supportive one without turning into a control freak. "Your power as a parent should come from your relationship with your child, not your role. Be a strong, nurturing parent and you won't have to resort to power-mongering tactics," says Lapointe.

6. Go to your room and come back when you can behave

At the core of every parent-child relationship is connection. By telling our child to leave us alone when their behavior doesn't meet our standards, we are breaking that connection. "Your child needs his connection to you. Literally to survive," says Lapointe. "Why would you ever put your connection with your child on the line in order to secure good behavior?"

More: My Mom Friend Is Driving Me Crazy on Snapchat

7. You always.../You never...

Nobody wants their past indiscretions to be used against them over and over again. It's not productive or supportive to remind our kids of the mistakes they made yesterday, last week or a year ago, says Dr. Jeph. The last message we want to give to our kids is that they never do anything right.

8. That's not for boys/girls

"We develop the concept of gender equality from day one in our actions and the language we use," says clinical psychologist Dr. Stacey Radin. This means parents need to be aware of how their words can create gender bias, be it through expecting kids to be drawn to certain types of toys and activities or discouraging them from pursuing certain interests or professions.

9. You shouldn't feel that way

Any statement that makes a child question their own thoughts and emotions has the potential to cause harm. According to New York-based clinical psychotherapist Dana Carretta, this can lead to a people-pleasing mentality and leave young people confused about their own identity. "This is because the child has internalized the belief that what they think or feel is unimportant or wrong," says Carretta. "Other internalized beliefs that they may develop are 'I’m not good enough,' 'I am worthless,' 'It’s my fault,' or 'I cannot safely say/show how I feel.'" Other phrases with a similar effect include "You're so sensitive" and "You're acting like a baby."

Tom Cruise Doesn't Want to Be an Absent Father to Suri Anymore

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Big changes are a-comin' — reports say Tom Cruise is ready to start building a relationship with his estranged daughter, Suri, after he's been rumored to have had no contact with her for several years.

More: Leah Remini Says Tom Cruise Could Be the End of Scientology

According to In Touch, the change came because Cruise's mom died earlier this year. Losing a close family member made him reassess his priorities, a source told the magazine, and one of those turned out to be getting back in touch with Suri.

"Tom now wants to re-establish his relationship with his daughter and begin seeing her on a regular basis," the insider said. "He is ready to ramp up his relationship with her in a big way."

Since there have been so many rumors saying Cruise's nonexistent relationship with Suri was due to his being such an active Scientologist, the news definitely makes you wonder whether Cruise is as committed to the church as he's been in the past. This has crazy implications for the church, considering how important Cruise is within its ranks.

More: According to Leah Remini, John Travolta Can Literally Get Away With Murder

Suri, who is now 10, has lived with Cruise's ex-wife, Katie Holmes, since they divorced in 2012. While the divorce was ongoing, their estrangement began — during divorce proceedings, Cruise admitted to reporters that he hadn't seen Suri in several months, but that there was just nothing he could do about that at the time.

"Unfortunately, in this situation it was impossible," he said.

Later, when it was revealed that Cruise still wasn't seeing Suri, he blamed his filming schedule for All You Need Is Kill, which kept him in London, but he did say he spoke to Suri on the phone daily. Even after returning to the U.S., though, Cruise was still pretty open about not spending time with Suri, still blaming the divorce.

"Things change and there are different agreements, like in any divorce, where you work out schedules," he said. "It’s just a different set of circumstances. It certainly does not mean that I’ve abandoned my daughter."

More: Tom Cruise's Mom Was the Real Hero in His Life

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Actors in Scientology slideshow
Image: Daniel Tanner/Wenn

This Statue of Kanye West as Jesus Is Bewildering, Also... Kind of Awesome?

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Have you ever found yourself thinking that the one thing this world of ours is missing is a life-size gold statue of Kanye West as Jesus Christ?

Well, the appropriately named artist Plastic Jesus has answered our prayers by creating this:

Kanye West Jesus

Kanye West Jesus

Yep. That's a gold Kanye West Jesus all right. And he's even been crucified:

Kanye West Jesus 2

Kanye West Jesus 2

Welp, let's begin to unpack this, shall we?

In a phone interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Jesus (as in the artist Plastic Jesus, not the messiah or Kanye West in statue form, just to clarify) said that the statue was intended as a criticism of the way we make celebrities into deities.

"He's a genius at writing and producing but he's not a God, and that's where we put him. Until there's an issue in his life or a hiccup in his career, then we crucify him." Plastic Jesus said, "We've seen it before with people like Britney Spears or Lindsay Lohan. The same people who put him into a God-like place are the same yapping at his heels for a piece of flesh when something happens."

The statue, which bears the inscription "False Idol" etched into its base, also wears a pair of West's signature Yeezy's.

I can't say that I disagree with Plastic Jesus' assertions about our treatment of celebrities. We worship them in a creepy borderline obsessive way and then viciously turn on them when they inevitably make a misstep.

More: Kanye West Actually Might Not Remember Some of His Rants

"He's not a god, that's where we put him," says Plastic Jesus.

But, um, did we?

Kanye West's messiah complex is long-documented and hardly subtle. No one thinks West is more godlike than Kanye West himself. I mean, that's where the name of his album Yeezus came from. Jesus!

So, I mean, yeah, Plastic Jesus's observations may be spot on, but Kanye West is probably the worst example he could have picked to convey them.

More: Kanye West Thinks "Everyone Is Out to Get Him"

Personally, I would have gone with Britney Spears. For my money, no one personifies the vicious cycle of celebrity worship and destruction more than Ms. Spears. We took her when she was just 16 and got to work mangling her into our idea of a sex symbol, a pop star and a role model in equal turn. We wanted her to be sweet and sexy and age-appropriate and available and mysterious and virginal and sultry and provocative.

We took Spears and projected upon her our hopes and fears for our own teenage daughters and ourselves and when eventually, predictably, she buckled under the pressure we gleefully tore her apart and mocked her for her weakness.

It was brutal. And people are still doing it.

More: Turns Out Kanye West's Meltdown Was Not Just Exhaustion

So, if this were a crucified Britney Spears statue, I could get behind it. I'd get it, you know? I'd applaud it, share it and hope people take something from the intended meaning: how we allow fame to build human beings up to impossible standards and then allow the pressures of that same fame to utterly destroy them.

But Kanye West? I'm not sure he's the best medium to convey this message. Yes, he has undoubtedly suffered for being famous, yet he also invites it in a way that's hard to ignore.

Plastic Jesus says, "I would say the message is this: By all means, treat and respect these people are artists but don't make them into gods — because we crucify our gods."

But, Plastic Jesus! Kanye West literally has a song called "I Am a God." The number of times Kanye West has compared himself to a god versus the number of times we have compared him to a god? It's, like, 10 to 1!

Regardless of the efficacy of using West to make this particular artistic statement, we're having the conversation, aren't we? We're engaging in the conversation about fame, pressure, mental health and the incredible burden of public opinion. That's one discussion that I think is worth having, giant gold statue notwithstanding.

What do you think of the gold Kanye West statue? Let us know in the comments below.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

kim and kanye slideshow
Image: Noel Velazquez/Getty Images

Dads Can Suffer From Pre- and Postpartum Depression Too

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In recent years, there's been a lot of focus on diagnosing and treating mothers who suffer from prenatal and postpartum depression.

And now a recent study shows that new dads can suffer too.

In the study (of more than 3,500 New Zealand men), researchers found that 2.3 percent of the men had prenatal depression and 4.3 percent had depression postpartum. This number is significantly lower than depression in women, which can affect as many as 20 percent of new moms. Researchers say depression in moms is attributed to hormonal changes or stress from an unplanned pregnancy, domestic violence or lack of support.

More: How Online Parenting Communities Can Hurt — or Help — Postpartum Mood Disorders

So what's going on with dads?

According to the study, fathers are at risk for prenatal depression if they are stressed or in poor health during the pregnancy. Other factors like a history of depression, unemployment or no longer being in a relationship with the mother can be a risk as well once the baby is born.

Researchers say paternal depression can be difficult for the whole household, potentially causing money issues as well future "emotional and behavioral problems" in the child. And even though the percentage of men being affected sounds pretty low — with 4 million babies being born every year in the U.S. — experts say it potentially affects a lot of families. Plus, previous studies of depression in new dads have shown even higher rates.

That isn't surprising. As we all know, having the baby will not make depression magically disappear. Dads must be screened and treated. The sooner, the better.

More: My Postpartum Depression Made Me a Better Mom

Paula Patton Points Yet Another Finger At Robin Thicke

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Robin Thicke hasn't looked great so far in the custody dispute over his 6-year-old son Julian with ex-wife Paula Patton. And the latest claims only make him look worse.

More: 9 Things to Know About Robin Thicke's Girlfriend, April Love Geary

Patton is alleging Thicke has falsely accused her of kidnapping, according to new court papers obtained by People.

I'm guessing this stems from their initial dispute at the beginning of the year when Patton had Julian picked up from school and brought to her home even though it was Thicke's turn to have custody. Patton reportedly made the move because Julian felt unsafe in his father's presence.

Though Thicke has maintained he did not physically harm him son past minor spankings, which the couple had previously agreed were OK in their custody agreement, a judge gave Patton full custody until the dispute could be settled — an indication that Julian did, in fact, want to stay with his mother.

But does Patton's decision to take Julian to her home even when it wasn't her time for custody constitute kidnapping?

More: Police Just Jot Involved in Robin Thicke & Paula Patton's Custody Battle

Well, not if Thicke fabricated court documents as Patton is claiming.

According to the documents, Patton believes Thick "willfully, intentionally, and wrongfully changed/fabricated a Court Order specifying custodial timeshare of the couple’s minor child” and "threatened to have [Paula] arrested for kidnapping premised upon the false and fraudulent court order."

This was prior to the new arrangement in which Patton has full custody, People reports.

Patton further alleges Thicke is trying to influence the DCFS case worker investigating the abuse allegations by treating them to expensive dinners.

Thicke's camp refutes all of these claims, of course, maintaining that the documents Patton signed at the time were correct and accurate. They also say the DCFS officer was present at the time Thicke took his son to an expensive dinner but maintains the DCFS worker did not eat.

I'm glad I'm not the judge in this case!

It's hard to know what's just the back and forth claims of a protective and angry mother and what is actually going on in Thicke's relationship with his son.

More: Robin Thicke Can See His Son Three Times a Week, but Reportedly Doesn't

Patton and Thicke are scheduled to appear in court again tomorrow. But it seems like it will be a long road before these two are done arguing. Hopefully, the courts can reach a decision in the best interest of their son.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

celeb divorces court slideshow
Image: Joseph Marzullo/WENN.com

Donald Trump Won't Watch the Oscars, But He Will Probably Hate on It

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The White House felt the need today to let us all know that Donald Trump won't be watching the Oscars because he'll be busy being president.

"I think Hollywood is known for being rather far to the left in its opinions, and I’ve got to be honest with you, I think the president will be hosting the Governors’ Ball that night," White House press secretary Sean Spicer explained. "Mrs. Trump looks forward to putting on a phenomenal event. And the first lady’s put a lot of time into this event, in welcoming our nation’s governors to the capital, and I have a feeling that’s where the president and first lady are going to be focused on Sunday night."

More: Rosie O'Donnell's Poem About Ivanka Trump Is Actually Really Powerful

Let's be real, Trump may not be watching, but the odds of him letting the event go without at least a snarky tweet or two are slim. He may be president, but he's never to busy for Twitter.

SNL Alec Baldwin as Donald Trump
Image: NBC

Not only does Trump have a history of hating on the Academy Awards...

donald trump oscar tweet 2

donald trump oscar tweet 2

donald trump oscar tweet 1

donald trump oscar tweet 1

... He has a history of hating on Hollywood and A-listers in general.

donald trump meryl streep tweet 1

donald trump meryl streep tweet 1

Right, because as a former reality star he's so much more relevant. But people thought his opinion was valid enough to elect him as president so there you go. Take what you will from that sentiment.

More: Oprah Winfrey Might Actually Have a Plan to Take Donald Trump Down

I get that Trump has important things to do as president. I can also understand that he wouldn't want to watch the Oscars and subject himself to the roast that will probably befall him for a healthy portion of the show. Not just because actors are generally more "left in its opinions" but because we all need a little to life about right now when looking at the White House.

Needless to say, Trump might not be watching, but I'll absolutely be tuning in and loving it.

More: Chelsea Clinton Just Became Our Favorite Donald Trump Troll

Do you plan to watch the 2017 Oscars on Sunday night?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

melania trump quotes slideshow
Image: Alex Wong/Getty Images

Grey's Anatomy Just Made Eliza and Arizona a Thing, and Fans Aren't Feelin' It

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On this week's episode of Grey's Anatomy, Eliza Minnick actually started to make progress with the good people of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital — particularly Arizona, *wink wink nudge nudge.* But despite the newcomer's seeming strides, there's still a hitch: I'm just not feeling it, and I'm not alone either.

More: Something Major Was Missing on Grey's Anatomy This Week

We kind of knew this was the direction things were headed, right?

We'd seen-slash-read plenty of teasers promising Arizona would finally get a new love interest this season. Since Eliza has been flirting up a storm with Arizona ever since she arrived, it didn't take much to determine she could be that love interest.

This, of course, was made all the more evident on this week's episode when Eliza straight-up planted a big ol' kiss on Arizona. Message received, Minnick. Message received.

Grey's: Minnick kiss

Grey's: Minnick kiss

To be clear, Arizona deserves this. She deserves to find happiness again. After all, we had to suffer through the whole Penny/Callie romance and watch that take Callie clear across the country. Why shouldn't Arizona pick up the pieces, too?

Yes, it's high time Arizona takes up a relationship with a new love. So why aren't we super-fans more excited about this romantic development? A cursory glance at Twitter reveals many of us aren't really feeling this potential pairing.

Grey's: Minnick

Grey's: Minnick

Grey's: Minnick 2

Grey's: Minnick 2

Grey's: Minnick 3

Grey's: Minnick 3

Grey's: Minnick 4

Grey's: Minnick 4

Grey's: Minnick 5

Grey's: Minnick 5

Here's the question of the hour, though: do we dislike Eliza because of who she is, or do we dislike her simply because she isn't Callie? Hmm, toughie.

The truth is Calzona was one of my favorite Grey's couples — I always thought they balanced each other out nicely and had incredible chemistry. I'm inclined to say that Eliza and Arizona don't have enough chemistry, but perhaps I'm not being fair by using Callie and Arizona's chemistry as a basis of comparison.

More: So Long, Jolex! Grey's Anatomy Needs to 'Ship Jo and DeLuca

In the big picture, there are several other problematic aspects of Eliza. As Richard pointed out this week, she's very cocky. It's one thing to be confident, but being too cocky can lead to blind spots. And in a hospital, blind spots can easily lead to death.

Which brings us to the next big issue. Is it just me, or did they totally gloss over that horrific situation that happened on Eliza's watch last week? Sure, all doctors lose people on the table from time to time. But one could argue that Eliza's over-confidence caused her to lose focus on the patient, who happened to be a little boy. Furthermore, when the little boy died and Stephanie started freaking out, Eliza had no idea how to counsel her. Shouldn't there have been more of a discussion or focus on this?!

Still, I'll be the first to admit I might be biased against Eliza in the same way I was against Penny in that it doesn't really matter who they are — they'll never feel like the right person, because the right person for Arizona is Callie and vice versa.

More: Raise Your Hand If the Last Three Minutes of Grey's Anatomy Made You Scream

Then again, I'd be happy to be proven wrong by Grey's introducing a love interest for Arizona who immediately feels organic and right. Plus, let it be said that if Eliza and Arizona do wind up in a relationship, their ship name would be totally lame. Elizona? Nope. Not happening.

What do you think? Do you ship Eliza and Arizona?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Grey's Anatomy slideshow
Image: ABC

The Bachelor's Nick Viall might have some fantasy suite performance anxiety

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Nick Viall is showing signs of some serious stress ahead of his fantasy suite dates. Not that he doesn't have good reason.

More: Seriously, Hold My Wine — ABC Has Cast Its First Black Bachelorette

Viall infamous called out Andi Dorfman on her After the Final Rose special, questioning her motives for having sex with him during the fantasy suite dates if she knew he wasn't the one. As you can imagine, Dorfman wasn't a fan of that line of questioning, but I think it's totally valid. And I wonder if it's a question running through Viall's head as we head into his time to have overnight dates with his three remaining women.

"I'm excited about this week — overnights and fantasy suite dates give you an incredible opportunity to connect with someone," Viall says in the sneak peek. "My hope is this week really helps bring clarity that I'm looking for. I really just have to focus on following my heart and knowing that I'm making the right decisions."

I can't help but wonder, though, given his history on the show, if he will take advantage of the overnights to get to know the women better but abstain from sex until after he gets down on one knee.

More: Sounds Like Corinne's Former Flame Wants Her Back Once Bachelor Wraps

I know Viall is a sexual guy. We've seen that from previous seasons, too. Plus, if Corinne makes it to Viall's final three you best believe she is getting in his pants. She's been trying all season long, after all, fantasy suites be damned.

Plus, I think if the women want it and Viall wants it then more power to all parties involved. They know what's happening with the other women, after all.

It'll be interesting to see how Viall justifies his decision, though, after he narrows down the women yet again. Maybe for Viall, unlike Dorfman, he really doesn't know who he'll end up with at this point of the show.

More: Hold Up, Nick Viall Just Teased Corinne's Fate on The Bachelor

Check out the sneak peek below.

the bachelor sneak peek video

the bachelor sneak peek video

Given Viall's past on the show, do you think he should forgo fantasy suite sex or is it important for him to experience intimacy with all the women?

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

Bachelor Season 21 contestants slideshow
Image: ABC

Is Feeding Your Dog Coconut Oil a Health Fad or Actually Healthy?

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Dietary fads are based on many things, from science and anecdotal evidence to whatever Gwyneth Paltrow feels like. As a pet owner, I am always skeptical about applying these trends to my pets, but a few months ago, I found myself up a creek without a paddle — or more specifically, without access to doggy toothpaste. I was on a Caribbean island and the vet clinic, which, like the rest of the island, relies on shipments from elsewhere that are often delayed, ran out of toothpaste.

I am pretty religious about brushing my dogs’ teeth, and they love it, too, so the toothpaste shortage was kind of a big deal. I did what any self-respecting millennial would do: I Googled an alternative.

More: Our favorite superfood spice should be added to your dog's diet

One of the things that came up was coconut oil. I remember finding several articles citing its antibacterial and antimicrobial benefits, and people have been using it as an oral rinse for a long, long time. I figured I would give it a try as an interim strategy for keeping plaque at bay.

This is where I wish I could tell you that it worked miracles, but in reality, I have no idea if it was effective or not. It made me feel better, which was ultimately the point. But it made me wonder if taking human health fads and applying them to our pets can be dangerous.

Does coconut oil for dogs work?

Here’s the thing. There really aren’t that many studies at all about whether or not coconut oil benefits dogs. Most of the evidence is anecdotal and a lot is based on in vitro studies, which have yet to be replicated in humans or dogs. What information is out there is mostly on humans, and that is also inconclusive.

More: Do dogs dream? And if so, what about?

Things that help humans can sometimes help animals, but not always. We are, after all, different species. Things that help humans can also hurt animals, which is where pet owners who want to give coconut oil a try should be wary.

Risks of coconut oil for dogs

Coconut oil is high in fats, both good and bad. In small quantities, coconut oil won’t hurt you or your dog unless you are allergic, but in large quantities the high fat content can lead to obesity, pancreatitis and symptoms of GI upset like diarrhea. This is especially concerning for small dogs, as it is easy to forget to adjust portions for their size. Talk to your veterinarian to see what is an appropriate amount of coconut oil to feed your dog.

Benefits of coconut oil for dogs

All of that being said, there are some potential benefits of giving coconut oil to dogs as long as you feed appropriate amounts and are not looking for a miracle cure.

More: What does the world look like to dogs? Now we know

What’s the verdict?

I’m no doctor, but I do believe in evidence-based science. Coconut oil could be beneficial for your dog’s health, but I will wait to see what future studies reveal about long-term effects before I jump fully on the bandwagon. In the meantime, I am now fully stocked on doggy toothpaste and content to use coconut oil in my own cooking.

This Is Not A Drill: Beyoncé May Have A Secret Snapchat Account

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Welp, I think she's finally gone and done it: Beyoncé may have a secret Snapchat and my heart might explode from her actions. To be clear: it will (metaphorically) explode from joy, but the feeling remains the same. How did we get here?

More: Why Beyoncé Embracing Oshun Is Everything

Well, after the announcement came through late Thursday afternoon that Beyoncé would not headline the 2017 Coachella Music Festival to headline, the queen decided to grace us all with a consolation Instagram. But this was not just any typical Instagram. It was an incredibly special Instagram because aside from the fact that she was with the coolest celebrity child, Blue Ivy, there was something else special about the photo.

Beyonce Snapchat Filter Insta

Beyonce Snapchat Filter Insta

Take a long hard look at the above photo. Does anything strike you as odd? Oh, you can't remember when Beyoncé and Blue Ivy turned into adorable, big-eyed deer? Yeah, me neither. That's because they are most likely using the voice-changing deer Snapchat filter, my friends. This can only mean one thing: Beyoncé maybe (all I'm saying is the chances are high) has a Snapchat account. And she conveniently forgot to tell us all. Beyoncé, why are you doing this to us? Don't you know that we want to follow you immediately and bask in your glory constantly?

Bey Fan Snapchat Tweet Part 1

Bey Fan Snapchat Tweet Part 1

More: Does Beyoncé's Pregnancy Photo Include Secret Hidden Messages? Spoiler: Yes

Naturally, fans did the math, they put on their sleuthing caps and they all arrived at the same realization. Of course they have to voice their feelings about it. How could they not? Some posted crying memes, frantically pleading with Beyoncé to reveal her Snapchat name. Others gave in to the futility of it all, saying that Beyoncé would never reveal her Snapchat name because it's just super-private information.

Bey Fan Snapchat Tweet Part 2

Bey Fan Snapchat Tweet Part 2

Since Beyoncé keeps her entire private life as locked down as possible, the chances are incredibly slim that she will reveal her Snapchat name. That said, why can't Beyoncé just have a private Snapchat and a public Snapchat? It's not exactly the craziest thing a celebrity has ever done in this life. At least consider it, Beyoncé? Pretty please? Just for me?

More: The First Good News of 2017: Beyoncé Is Pregnant With Twins

For now, we'll just have to be content with the occasional Instagram photo and epic pregnancy announcement photos. It sure is a tough life when you're a Beyoncé fan.

10 Moms Share Some Solid Snack Ideas For Kids

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Trying to nail down healthy snacks that will appease your little one's picky sensibilities can feel a little like solving the riddle of the Sphinx. Who among us moms hasn't heard, "Eww, that's gross!" when trying to convince our kids to trade the cookies for kale chips or some other health-friendly food?

More: 7 things new parents want their kid-free friends to understand

Of course, kids need the energy that comes from healthy snacking, and, good mama that you are, you're committed to finding kid-friendly and mom-approved foods for on-the-go, between-meal noshing. As they say, a mother's work is truly never done.

To make your job a little easier at least, we asked other real moms to weigh in on the guilt-free snack foods they hand out in their households. Here's what they had to say.

"Peanut butter celery boats. The kids love 'em!" — Karly C.

"My kids love baked apples with a bit of cinnamon and brown sugar. Even the picky one adores it. You don't have to add much of the sugar at all, if any." — Elizabeth B.

"Easiest is Parmesan crisps. Just put spoonfuls of grated Parmesan cheese on a cookie sheet about an inch apart and cook at 400 degrees [F] for three to six minutes (depending on your oven) until crispy. Remove from the cookie sheet immediately or they will stick. They make great snacks or can be crumbled on tomato soup or served with salad." — Terrie J.

More: Sorry, but being a mom isn't a job... it's harder

"My kids are fruit fans. I keep washed strawberries, oranges, bananas and apples on hand at all times. They also like string cheese. I know none of these are necessarily homemade, but this makes life and snacks easy!" — Kristi S.

"My son eats anything, even though we mainly have him eating whole foods. It varies from fruit or nuts or a granola bar, but today I made clean-eating chocolate cups using this recipe from The Gracious Pantry. I like to add in a little salt and store in the freezer. It's a great alternative to something that tends to be unhealthy." — Kelly A.

"Our kiddos love fresh-cut veggies in Ziploc bags. Easy access and yummy. We also keep popcorn and fruit in the house for snacking." — Susan P.

"Flourless chocolate zucchini muffins are a favorite in our house!" — Shannon J.

"My 20-month-old wants milk all the time. To get him more interested in water, I use fun cups and straws, infuse water with cuke or berry, make smoothies watered down enough to get through the straw, etc. Speaking of smoothies, my kids love them, and I hide kale and other veggies in them." — Brooke N.

"My kids are big fans of ham and cheese roll-ups, which is pretty much exactly what it sounds like. We slice up ham and cheese, roll them up and skewer them with a pretzel stick to hold them together." — Amy M.

More: New peanut allergy guidelines are the opposite of what we've been told

"We are huge fans of frozen edamame. They steam in the bag in the microwave! Easy, healthy and filling! Our dog Sallie even loves when they drop on the floor and she gets to 'clean up.'" — Constance M.

This post was sponsored by the goodness of GoGo squeeZ®.

Janelle Monáe Is Our 2017 Oscar Darling, and She's Not Even Nominated

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Before this year, most of us knew Janelle Monáe as an extremely talented singer. We were aware she is an amazing musician (she has six Grammy nominations and her own label, for crying out loud), but no one really saw what else she had up her sleeve.

Now, Monáe's electrifying musical talent is almost taking a backseat to a breakout acting career. Out of nowhere, she established herself as a dramatic powerhouse in 2016.

Janelle Monae insta 1

Janelle Monae insta 1

The fact that she didn't receive any nods at this year's Academy Awards has baffled most people, but here's why Monáe is definitely still this year's Oscar darling, despite being snubbed.

More: No One Give Emma Stone or Ryan Gosling an Oscar Until They Sing Onstage

1. She's in not one but two Best Picture nominees

Hidden Figures
Image: 20th Century Fox

Monáe appears as Teresa in the beautiful Moonlight (the story of a young man struggling with his sexual identity as he grows up in a rough neighborhood in Florida) and as Mary Jackson in the smash hit Hidden Figures (which tells the true tale of the team of black female mathematicians who were a huge part of John Glenn's launch into space in the '60s).

"I thought, finally, we have a story that won’t just be highlighting our beauty as black women but our brilliance," she told the Los Angeles Times of Hidden Figures. "I was in tears reading about the amount of obstacles these women had to go through as they were trying to send our first Americans into space. I was truly proud of how they maneuvered through that matrix in the 1960s and late ’50s. They were able to achieve the extraordinary during a time when African Americans and African American women did not have the agency that I have now."

Janelle Monae insta 2

Janelle Monae insta 2

And did we mention that she already won an award for Best Acting Ensemble for Moonlight at the Critics' Choice Awards and a statue for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture at the SAG awards?

2. She has the full support of a real Hidden Figure

Janelle Monae on GMA

Janelle Monae on GMA

Monáe recently appeared on Good Morning America with Raye Montague, one of the women involved with the space launch back in the day — and it's clear by the way that Montague looks at Monáe that Montague is proud of the 2016 portrayal of her accomplishments in the '60s.

3. She knows how to accept an award onstage

2017 SAG awards

2017 SAG awards

Monáe, Octavia Spencer and Taraji P. Henson gave us goose bumps when they took to the stage at the SAG awards back in January. The trio won our hearts while accepting the award for Outstanding Performance by a Cast in a Motion Picture. The only thing that topped Henson's acceptance speech was the celebrating that took place after.

4. She's rocking the red carpet this season

Janelle Monae insta 5

Janelle Monae insta 5

Monáe has been flawless at every award show in the 2016-2017 season. We're super-excited to see how elegant she will look at the Oscars.

More: Get to Know Isabelle Huppert, the Oscars' Best Actress Underdog

5. Her confidence is intoxicating

Janelle Monae insta 6

Janelle Monae insta 6

Monáe is a force to be reckoned with — and she knows it — but she doesn't come off as cocky or arrogant. She just knows she's the shit because, well, she is.

"I’ve never viewed myself as ‘just’ a musician or singer," she told The Guardian. "I’m a storyteller who wants to tell untold, meaningful, universal stories in unforgettable ways. I want to do it all, study it all and find my place in it."

6. She walks the walk

Janelle Monae insta 3

Janelle Monae insta 3

When it comes to social injustice, Monáe isn't just a keyboard warrior. She gets out there to get shit done.

She's led marches for Black Lives Matter, gave a speech at the Women's March, performed at a charity concert that aided the water crisis in Flint, Michigan, and released a protest song, "Hell You Talmbout," about police brutality.

"Millennials will not be silenced — we’re the powerhouse now," she told The Guardian. "We’re not going to let those who want to ‘make America great again’ truly take over. Because what Trump means by ‘making America great again’ is oppressing women, oppressing minorities, creating hate. We’re not allowing him to run the world, even though he thinks he is."

7. Hidden Figures was an education for her

Janelle Monae insta 4

Janelle Monae insta 4

Monáe may know the real women from the Hidden Figures story on a personal level now, but like many Americans, she had no idea they even existed before she was hired to be in the movie.

"First of all, I'm honored to just honor these women," Monáe said on Good Morning America. "I had no clue who Mary Jackson was, who Miss Katherine Johnson was, Dorothy Vaughan or any of the 'colored computers,' as they called us back then. I didn't know these were the women who sent our first American astronauts into space. I mean, these are American heroes."

If nothing else, the cast of Hidden Figures deserve to win an Oscar for bringing this amazing story mainstream.

Before you go, check out our slideshow below.

oscars diversity slideshow
Image: WENN.com

5 Things You Need to Know About Eating Disorders & Your Heart

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When it comes to eating disorders, we are often uneducated as to the extent of their risks. Sure, we know they are detrimental, but when I struggled with one for eight years, I had no real awareness of what type of bodily harm I inflicted on my organs.

Of course I noticed the physical effects: thinning hair, sallow eyes and stress fractures from running. I observed the light-headedness and fainting spells, but I never took time to explore what that meant internally, especially for my heart.

Now in recovery from my eating disorder, I spent time speaking with cardiologists and medical professionals around the country to learn more about the harmful effects that eating disorders can have on your organs — specifically, your heart.

woman looking in mirror after throwing up
Image: KatarzynaBialasiewicz/Getty Images

More: Eating Disorders Are a Mental Illness, Not a Choice

Anorexia is not the only eating disorder that puts hearts at risk

While anorexia is most commonly associated with heart complications due to starvation and malnutrition, all eating disorders have the potential to affect the heart.

“With anorexia, the body enters a state of starvation induced by the restricting, and the heart slows down to often dangerously low levels called bradycardia,” Dr. Vikas Duvvuri, medical director at Cielo House, told SheKnows. “But, all forms of eating disorders carry with them the possibility of serious cardiac issues.”

Complications can arise with bulimia and binge eating, as well as exercise bulimia and EDNOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified). Due to the binge and purge associated with bulimia, fluid loss speeds up the heart (tachycardia), so when a person stands up suddenly, it can lead to fainting spells. In addition, purging depletes electrolytes, similar to the effects of dehydration, and the electrolyte imbalances can cause abnormal heart rhythms called arrhythmia, which can result in cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating.

Binge eating, on the other hand, can involve metabolic changes if continued long-term and in response can damage the blood supply to heart muscles and lead to heart attacks. Complications of the heart are also increased if the patient suffers from obesity due to their binge eating.

More: My Eating Disorder Ruined Christmas for 10 Years

apple looking in mirror
Image: BrianAJackson/Getty Images

There is a misconception about athletes and the heart that could be deadly

Fueled by competitive expectations, it comes at no surprise that eating disorders in athletes are higher than the general population. Whether it be exercise bulimia (working out multiple times per day) or trying to preserve a perfect, restrictive diet (orthorexia) under the guise of training, athletes’ diets can be confusing because from the outside perspective, the patient appears to simply be trying to maintain an advantage.

The true issue lies in the public misconception that an athlete’s heart is healthier than most due to extensive training, and therefore “natural” for their heart to beat at a low resting rate.

“We often treat reluctant patients with bradycardia who are admitted to our facility because they classify themselves as an athlete,” said Dr. Ovidio Bermudez, chief clinical officer and medical director of child and adolescent services at the Eating Recovery Center. “The patient, as well as their family, will argue that a low heart rate is their baseline due to good physical conditioning. However, this is not entirely accurate. Especially if the athlete is underweight, a low resting heart rate is not a sign of good health, but of cardiac damage imposed by the eating disorder.”

So how can doctors adequately distinguish between a healthy heart in an athlete versus an eating disorder heart complication?

“A review of their past medical checks will likely show that their baseline heart rate was higher with a normal blood pressure,” said Duvvuri. “A thorough analysis of their eating and exercise behaviors can indicate whether their heart rate is impacted by the eating disorder.”

People with eating disorders can suffer cardiac arrest

Malnourishment often leads to complications with the heart.

“Bradycardia and low blood pressure are the two most common heart issues seen in eating disorders — especially anorexia,” said Dr. Jennifer Haythe, assistant professor of medicine in the Division of Cardiology at Columbia and co-director of the Women’s Center for Cardiovascular Health. “As patients with anorexia lose weight, they lose cardiac muscle mass.”

Due to these cardiac conditions stemming from lack of nutrition, people may have fainting spells. These conditions are easily remedied through proper nutrition. However, they can also lead to more dangerous heart conditions if untreated. The most frequent — and deadliest — of severe heart complications seen in eating disorders is sudden cardiac arrest.

More: Eating Disorder Diagnoses Are Up for Women in Their 40s and 50s

hands tied with measuring tape over plate
Image: Westend61/Getty Images

Recovery is more complicated than just eating more

Patients with eating disorders often believe that if they don’t have a heart problem when first admitted to the hospital, then are diagnosed later, they will be able to recover solely with better nourishment. However, the reality is that recovery from anorexia involves a risky period for the patient known as the “refeeding process,” which refers to the time in which trained clinicians provide adequate calories and nourishment to severely underweight patients.

Reintroducing food to a malnourished person has risks and cardiac complications if handled without expertise and can lead to a lethal condition called “refeeding syndrome,” in which malnourished patients might develop fluid and electrolyte disorders when finally nourished. The shifting of electrolytes and fluid balance increases cardiac workload and heart rate, which can lead to acute heart failure or, more commonly, cardiac arrhythmias.

Your heart can recover from an eating disorder — but there’s a caveat

There is hope if you struggle with an eating disorder. The vast majority of complications from eating disorders, including heart conditions, normalize during recovery, which is why early treatment is critical.

However, for people with anorexia, about 20 percent will struggle with a prolapse (slipping) of the mitral valve, which is the heart valve between the upper and lower chambers on the left side of the heart.

“Mitral valve prolapse can absolutely persist even after weight gain,” cautioned Haythe.

If you are struggling with an eating disorder, don’t wait until you feel “sick enough.” Educate yourself, because it might just help you to understand how crucial it is to seek help.

Orgasms Are Most Elusive for Straight Women

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Another study has confirmed what many women have known for some time: Straight women have fewer orgasms than lesbian or bisexual women, proving yet again that we need to stop glorifying penetrative sex.

So, not only does an orgasm gap exist between men and women, but there’s an additional gap between heterosexual women and those with higher Kinsey scale scores. In the study of 52,600 people in the United States, heterosexual men were the most likely to orgasm, coming 95 percent of the time during sexual encounters, followed by gay men (89 percent) and bisexual men (88 percent). Lesbians fared the best among women, orgasming 86 percent of the time.

Then comes the big gap: Bisexual and heterosexual women came 66 and 65 percent of the time, respectively (read: any time men are involved).

The study included penetrative and oral sex as well as manual stimulation.

More: Yes, Your Partner Can Go Down on You During Your Period — And It Can Help With Cramps

In a shock to no woman, the research found that few heterosexual women climaxed through penetrative sex alone. In fact, there was a noticeable pattern between people who had more oral sex having more orgasms in every demographic except straight men.

Women who did orgasm with penetrative sex typically had a sexual encounter that also involved deep kissing, manual genital stimulation and/or oral sex. The authors of the study refer to this as the "Golden Trio," making it sound like a mythical power-force in a young adult fantasy book series rather than something most couples could engage in.

So how can we fix it?

First of all, we need to stop treating penis-in-vagina penetrative sex as the be-all and end-all and prioritizing the sexual pleasure of heterosexual men. We need an overall shift to thinking of sex as something that should be mutually pleasurable and consensual for all parties involved. And we definitely need to stop dismissing women’s bodies as “tricky” or not designed to orgasm — in fact, the clitoris is the only part of any body (male or female) that exists exclusively for pleasure.

More: Pornhub Launches New Sex Ed Site

Yes, our sex ed leaves a lot to be desired and in many cases doesn’t even acknowledge sexual pleasure as a desirable goal of sex (more on that another day), but nothing’s stopping you from learning about your partner’s body or your own. A recent (or really any) edition of the women’s health bible Our Bodies, Our Selves is a good start, as are sites like Scarleteen and content from sex educators like Aida ManduleyIgnacio RiveraLaci Green and Ericka Hart.

If you haven’t taken sexual pleasure into your own hands, there’s no better time to start and help close the orgasm gap.

More: Our Bodies, Ourselves Takes on International Surrogacy

4 Women Get Real About How Swinging Affected Their Relationships

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For some couples, the idea of having sex with anyone other than your significant other seems unfathomable. It can be hard to understand how “swinging” — when you swap partners with another couple and sleep with someone new — can actually lead to stronger relationship bonds. But believe it or not, it can, and there are more couples interested in doing it than you may realize.

If you’ve ever remotely considered getting into swinging — with your spouse, significant other or just that cool friend with benefits — there are a few things you should know before you dive in. Below, four women get real about what their own swinging experiences were really like.

Nicole has been with her husband for 18 years and they've been swinging for 17.

How she got into it: “I grew up with this idea that there's not just one person for anyone and that we can enjoy being with multiple people, as well as the idea that you can have sex without having emotion tied to it. My husband knew that I was bi-curious when we met, so on the anniversary of our first date, we decided to explore and went to a swingers club.”

How it impacted her relationship: “It's really helped strengthen our relationship. Not all experiences were 100 percent pleasurable, so we made an effort to have those conversations and keep the lines of communication open. When you talk about [swinging] it makes it so much easier to discuss other issues in the relationship."

Her advice to those considering the lifestyle: “For couples who are considering it, we suggest that you better have a really good relationship starting out because it doesn't fix broken relationships, it only breaks them up faster. Also, you need to have conversations with your spouse or partner before you go into it. Know your rules and limits before you get into a situation because you can't really get upset with your partner if you didn't talk about.” 

Jody was introduced to swinging five years ago and is currently single. She loves her work as a sex coach and says if it weren’t for swinging, she wouldn’t be where she is now.

How she got into it: “I was introduced to swinging by my former husband, and not in a good way. One day he forgot to log off the computer and I looked at his browser. I saw some sites that I was not familiar with, but I was appalled by what a saw. Some time later, I confronted him about it. He explained to me what swinging was, but I furthered my knowledge by reading everything I could. I then told him that if he had just talked to me about it, it was something I could be open to.”

How it impacted her relationship: "[Swinging] honestly had no effect on our relationship, which ended for other reasons. Swinging changed me personally for the better. I have sexual confidence that I didn’t have before. I exclusively date swingers now because I meet a much better class of men. They really honor and respect women.”

Her advice to those considering swinging: “If your marriage is struggling, don’t do it. It will only make things worse. If you have a good marriage, dip your toes in the water. Attend a meet and greet or other event. The swinger couples I know have absolutely amazing marriages. For a single woman, you'll meet the best men ever, but take it slow and make sure you take the usual dating precautions.”

More: BDSM and Consent: What's the Big Deal?

Julia Allen, co-founder of StockingsVR, was 24 when she first walked into a swingers club and has now been swinging for 25 years.

How she got into it: "My boyfriend thought it would be fun to try. We didn't do anything except dance and talk to some people the first night, but it was exciting and I couldn't wait to go back. A few months later, on New Year's Eve, we had a hotel room and invited a few people up. Well... Everyone came up. It was packed and before I knew it, everyone was having sex all around me. A lovely woman wanted to play with me and my boyfriend. I loved it. I loved watching him with her and having him watch me with her, and then both of us just getting lost in the whole experience. I loved the experience of being able to have sex outside of my relationship.”

How it impacted her relationship: “I've never been tempted to stray outside of my relationship by having an affair. Swinging takes care of all of my sex needs. I really feel that it strengthens every relationship. I don't view sex as something that you only have with someone you love. Sex is recreational. I think every boyfriend I've had has felt the same way. Along the way, I started filming myself with various people and decided to take my swinging/exhibitionist/kinky lifestyle and make it full time. I guess you could say that swinging has enriched my relationships and also enriched my life.”

Her advice to those considering swinging: “Don’t feel pressure. Most people who are new to swinging don't actually have sex. They like to watch. In a swingers club, no really does mean no. Many times, I've had men or women approach me and if I don't feel like it, I just say no. You can explore any fantasy you have at a swingers club. I would suggest for first timers to try a larger club where there are lots of people. People who go to swingers clubs are normal people who you would never guess in a million years are swingers. About 90 percent of people who swing are married with kids and just want to try walking on the wild side together.”

More: Women Don't Want More Sex — They Want Better Sex

Jessica Drake, an adult superstar and certified sex educator, has been swinging since before she was in the adult industry.

How she got into it: "Depending on the state of each relationship and my boundaries with different partners, I had different experiences. In the beginning, when I was younger, it felt awkward based on my inability to be assertive about my wants and needs. It felt more like that group sex stereotype that you might see on TV or in porn... and definitely more male pleasure-centered."

How it impacted her relationship: “Sexual jealousy has never really been an issue for me, and as long as my needs are being met, I feel secure and aroused when I watch a partner enjoying someone else. I think one mistake some people make is assuming that swinging has only one meaning, but it's something that is totally open to interpretation. Some of my most intimate, fulfilling encounters lately have been 'soft swap' — meaning I have sex with my primary partner, and have foreplay only with our 'guests.'”

Her advice to those considering swinging: “If you want to start experimenting with swinging and swapping, you need to take a look at your sexual values and belief system. Compare it to the way your partner perceives things, and before you proceed, have an honest discussion. Overall, if you find yourself wanting to try this later on in life, go for it! It may reawaken you and give you a sexual second wind. It's never too late. There are people of all ages, all body types, all colors, who come from a variety of backgrounds looking for like-minded people.”

More: 19 Signs You're in a Strong Relationship

Only One of Bill Cosby's Accusers Can Testify Against Him, Even Though 13 Want To

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The sexual abuse case against Bill Cosby just took a major hit.

More: Bill Cosby is Still Set to Stand Trial for Criminal Sexual Assault Charges

The Associated Press reports that a judge has ruled that only one of Cosby's accusers — other than Andrea Constand, the woman accusing Cosby in the case in which he is being tried — can testify at the actor's upcoming trial.

Prosecutors had asked the judge to allow testimony from 13 other women who have accused Cosby of drugging and raping or molesting them, out of the more than 50 women total who have made such claims. Cosby's lawyers objected to having the women testify, saying the string of old "casting couch" claims aren't part of Cosby's "signature" behavior. The judge referred to the women as "prior bad act" witnesses before saying the prosecution could not include them in its case.

More: Someone Hug Judge McHugh — She's Sending Bill Cosby's Rape Case to Trial

Despite the dozens of women who have accused Cosby of sexual assault, this is the first time he's been charged with a crime related to the many accusations he's faced. Prosecutors in Philadelphia reopened a case last year after old court documents were released showing that Cosby admitted in a deposition that he had drugged women to have sex with them multiple times over a 50-year period. Prosecutors charged Cosby in a 2005 case, in which Constand, a former Temple University employee, claims Cosby drugged and molested her at his home near Philadelphia.

Cosby repeatedly maintained his innocence for years, as hushed rumors of serial sexual assault followed him, but he slowly dropped out of the public eye in 2015, as dozens of women began to come forward and claim media attention.

Cosby faces three counts of felony aggravated indecent assault. His trial is set to begin in June.

More: Bill Cosby's New Defense Will Only Work if the Legal System Fails Us

5-Year-Old Girl Becomes Her Idols for Black History Month

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A remarkable 5-year-old girl from Kent, Washington, is celebrating Black History Month in style. Lola and her mom Cristi have joined forces to recreate iconic photos of notable black women for Black History Month — and they are awesome.

Cristi and Lola gather items from around the house to help Lola create her costume. Once Lola is satisfied with her look for the day, her mom snaps a picture and posts it to her social media accounts.

BHM Toni Morrison

BHM Toni Morrison

The pair have developed quite a following. Even my 9-year-old daughter and I check my phone each morning to see which brave and courageous woman Lola has decided to honor that day.

BHM Rosa Parks

BHM Rosa Parks

Cristi told Komo 4 News in Seattle that Lola was enthralled by a video on Martin Luther King Jr. shown in school last month. So Cristi decided to turn her enthusiasm into an opportunity to teach Lola more about civil rights.

By actually becoming the women she was learning about, Lola has created a project that has the potential to change the way she views her place in this world for the rest of her life. "And it is extremely helpful that Lola truly emulates the women she's portraying," Cristi told Komo 4 News. "She gets into character and just nails it.”

BHM Nikki Giovanni

BHM Nikki Giovanni

And who are some of these iconic role models Lola has chosen to get into character and honor? The poet Maya Angelou, pilot Bessie Coleman, civil rights activist Rosa Parks, politician Shirley Chisholm, singer Josephine Baker, and Ruby Bridges — one of the first African-American children to attend an all-white school — are just a few of the talented, brilliant and powerful women Lola is learning about.

BHM Angela Davis

BHM Angela Davis

But the one woman Lola smiles about the most is astronaut and scientist Dr. Mae Jemison.

BHM Mae Jemison

BHM Mae Jemison

Her mom told the news station that becoming Jemison has taught Lola she can be anything she wants. And based on the incredible time, detail and passion Lola puts into transforming herself each day, it doesn’t seem like a stretch to imagine this extraordinary 5-year-old will someday be inspiring little girls with her own example.

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