Quantcast
Channel: What's New
Viewing all 33701 articles
Browse latest View live

What Is Restless Leg Syndrome?

$
0
0

I've been feeling a strange itchy, tingling sensation on my right ankle lately whenever I sit for longer than a half hour. It seems no matter how much I rub it, the feeling won't go away until I get up and move. As a writer, I sit a lot and the sensation always returns as soon as I sit back down, so I am constantly wiggling my ankle for relief. It has become quite the distraction.

My mother suffers from restless leg syndrome, also know as also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, which is a neurological disorder that leaves her with an uncomfortable twitching feeling in her legs that makes her want to move them and can feel like something is crawling all over her. I was wondering if perhaps this was starting to happen to me. After all, RLS affects about 10 percent of adults and 2 percent of children.

Restless leg syndrome
Image: Getty Images/Design: Ashley Britton/SheKnows

MoreHow a Vitamin D Deficiency Almost Destroyed My Life

While RLS can be really hard to diagnose, if you start having a twitchy or uncomfortable feeling in your legs, arms or other body parts, such as your torso or genitals, especially at night, and it makes you feel like you need to move, then the feeling disappears only to return as soon as you are still, you may need to seek medical attention. The feeling can be anything from a tingle to an uncomfortable pulling sensation.

While RLS can be more common in people who have arthritis, are pregnant or have diabetes or anemia, you can also suffer if you don't have these conditions.

The good news is you don't have to suffer from RLS, as it is treatable.

Always wanting to move your limbs around to get rid of the creepy-crawly feeling is annoying, but what is worse is that it can affect our sleep, which can lead to other problems such as depression.

More: What Chelsea Clinton Wants Every Young Woman in America to Know

"Central nervous system problems that have been implicated include: neurotransmitters such as glutamate and gamma-aminobutyric acid, circadian physiology, reduced central iron stores, dopaminergic systems and thalamic function," Dr. David Fox, a vascular surgeon specializing in the treatment of venous disease tells SheKnows.

He is an attending vascular surgeon at Lenox Hill Hospital and offers what he claims to be the safest, most advanced vein treatments in the tri-state area, including endovenous laser therapy and sclerotherapy. Fox says that RLS is "poorly understood," as it indicates problems with both the central and peripheral nervous systems.

While there has been an effort to try to understand how we develop RLS, Fox explains that about half of all patients have some kind of family history of the condition.

"Many patients with RLS have not been found to have it as a consequence of an identifiable genetic pattern and no specific genetic abnormalities have been identified thus far," he adds.

RLS is in fact a treatable condition and most people do well when they seek treatment. The most common medications for treatment are pramipexole and ropinirole, but iron replacements and the Relaxis Pad, a device approved by the FDA in 2014, have also been known to relieve symptoms.

MoreTop Wilderness Survival Tips From an Indoor Kid

RLS can start at any age, and Fox says about 45 percent of all patients experience their first symptoms before the age of 20, at which point it's considered early-onset RLS. Late onset begins after age 45.


This Beef Kebab Recipe Is Pretty Much the Perfect Backyard Barbecue Food

$
0
0

Summer is our favorite season, and the best thing about summer is obviously the backyard barbecues. Though we've attended about a million grilling shindigs over the course of our lives, the thought of throwing our own still seems a little... intimidating.

We met up with food blogger Gaby Dalkin of What's Gaby Cooking for her hostess-with-the-mostess expertise. From easy decor that's worthy of an Instagram post (or two) to the perfect food and beverage choices, Dalkin has us feeling totally at ease with our ability to pull off a backyard barbecue for the ages.

Here's her recipe for grilled beef kebabs that will knock your guests' socks off. The key is the superior Kikkoman® Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce that really takes the beef tips to a whole new level of deliciousness. So often when we barbecue kebabs, we throw the meat on the stick and are done with it — but when you allow the teriyaki to really settle into the beef, you're going to get crazy flavor.

You've had grilled beef and vegetable skewers before, but we promise you they were nothing like this.

Grilled Beef Kebabs

Prep time: 6 – 8 hours
Cook time: 12 minutes
Makes 3 – 4 servings


For the Beef Kebabs

1 bottle Kikkoman® Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce, plus extra for brushing
1 1/2 pounds beef sirloin tips, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
1 large sweet onion, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch squares
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch squares
1 orange bell pepper, cut into 1 1/2-inch squares

For the Scallion Sauce

15 scallions, very thinly sliced
1/4 cup fish sauce
3 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons Kikkoman® Soy Sauce
2 tablespoons toasted sesame seeds

  1. Place the beef cubes in a large sealed plastic bag. Add the Kikkoman® Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce and seal the bag, pressing out as much air as possible. Transfer the bag to the refrigerator and marinate the beef for 6 to 8 hours.
  2. Thread the beef onto metal skewers, alternating with the onion and colorful bell peppers. Discard the marinade.
  3. Combine all the ingredients for the scallion sauce in a large bowl just before you begin grilling; stir occasionally and add extra Kikkoman® Soy Sauce depending on your taste preference.
  4. Light a gas or charcoal grill. Grill the skewers over direct high heat until the beef is well-seared on all sides, about 3 to 4 minutes per side. Brush the skewers all over with additional Kikkoman® Teriyaki Marinade & Sauce. Cover the grill and continue to cook until the center of the beef is medium. Transfer the skewers to a platter and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve immediately with the scallion sauce on the side for dipping.

This post is sponsored by Kikkoman®.

Sarah Hyland Can Sing Like a Bird, but She's Not the Only Actress With Pipes

$
0
0

When it comes to God-given talent, some people are just more blessed than others. For instance, as if it isn't enough that Kate Hudson is an uh-maze-ing actress, she can also sing her little butt off. Not fair.

And Hudson isn't the only drama queen who has a serious set of pipes. Turns out a lot of our favorite actresses can sing with the best of 'em. Check it out.

Sarah Hyland

Sarah Hyland

Sarah Hyland

Looks like someone is a triple-threat. Modern Family's Sarah Hyland teamed up with Boyce Avenue for an acoustic cover of The Chainsmokers and Halsey's "Closer" — and she can really sing. Hyland called the experience a "dream come true."

Kate Hudson

Kate Hudson singing

Kate Hudson singing

Kate Hudson singing David Foster

Kate Hudson singing David Foster

Did you know Kate Hudson's first love is music? We didn't either, but after hearing her sing, it makes total sense. During an appearance on The Tonight Show, she told host Jimmy Fallon, "I've always been scared of making music, because I like authentic [songs]. I like music that feels really honest. I love pop music."

Lucky for all of us, Hudson continues to write, and when asked by Entertainment Tonight if she has an album coming up, she paused and said: "Not that I could say, but I’m always writing." Come on, Hudson, give the people what they want!

Jena Malone

The Shoe - Paper Cup

The Shoe - Paper Cup

As it turns out, Saved! and Hunger Games actress Malone has been making music for almost a decade and currently spends a decent chunk of her time as the front woman for Los Angeles's The Shoe. Check out their single "Paper Cup" off the 2014 LP I'm Okay above.

Connie Britton and Hayden Panettiere

Nashville song

Nashville song

Remember when they were just Coach T's wife and "The Cheerleader"? Now, Britton will forever be Rayna Jaymes and Panettiere is burned into our minds as Juliette Barnes on Nashville. Their singing chops are pretty remarkable.

Emily Blunt

Emily Blunt singing

Emily Blunt singing

Emily Blunt may have played one fiery chick in The Devil Wears Prada, but she actually has quite the sweet voice on her.

Allison Williams

Allison Williams singing

Allison Williams singing

Despite the fact that Williams has been singing for quite some time, when her Girls character, Marnie, burst into song, viewers were stunned. We especially love her cover of "Hallelujah."

More: All Our Favorite Sarah Silverman Bits Ahead of Her New Netflix Special

Originally published March 2014. Updated May 2017 by Sarah Long.

Up next: Anna Kendrick

{pageBreak}

Anna Kendrick

Anna Kendrick - Cups

Anna Kendrick - Cups

Remember when Kendrick was just the bitchy BFF to Bella Swan in Twilight? She shocked the world when she let loose in Pitch Perfect. People loved her cover of Lulu and the Lampshades's "You're Gonna Miss Me" (aka "Cups") so much that she eventually turned it into a single.

Juliette Lewis

Juliette Lewis singing

Juliette Lewis singing

Lewis is such a BAMF. She's killed it in some stunning roles over the years, but never has she seemed more badass and sexy than when she took to the stage to rock in the 1995 movie Strange Days. Lewis also fronts the real-life band Juliette and the Licks.

Scarlett Johansson

Scarlett Johansson singing

Scarlett Johansson singing

Whether she's covering Jeff Buckley or teaming up with Pete Yorn, Johansson's beautiful voice stands out. Because she focuses more on her acting career, though, maybe people still don't know the girl can carry a tune.

Jennifer Aniston

Jennifer Aniston singing

Jennifer Aniston singing

Leave it to Ellen DeGeneres to pull a song from the lips of Jennifer Aniston. Of all the things we've come to expect from the former Friends star, having a decent voice was not one of them.

Up next: Kristen Bell

{pageBreak}

Kristen Bell

Kristen Bell performs Fame

Kristen Bell performs Fame

Everyone knows Kristen Bell can sing now, what with her charming songs on the Frozen soundtrack. But do you remember her performance at the 2005 Emmys during her Veronica Mars days? Not only did she sing, but she did so while being tossed in the air and dancing around on the stage in high heels. We're impressed.

Reese Witherspoon

Reese Witherspoon sings

Reese Witherspoon sings

Witherspoon has always been a sweetheart in our eyes, but she stole our hearts as June Carter Cash in Walk the Line. It's still one of our favorite movie soundtracks.

Taylor Momsen and Leighton Meester

Pretty Reckless

Pretty Reckless

The ladies behind little Jenny Humphrey and Blair Waldorf found individual success in music during their time on Gossip Girl. Momsen took a more hardcore rocker approach with her band The Pretty Reckless, while Meester dominated the pop charts.

Leighton Meester singing

Leighton Meester singing

More: Ed Westwick Is Not Here For Your Gossip Girl Reunion, Man

Emilia Clarke

Emilia Clarke singing

Emilia Clarke singing

Clarke took everyone's breath away as the blond mother of dragons in Game of Thrones. Later, she was cast in the iconic role of Holly Golightly in the stage version of Breakfast at Tiffany's.

Emma Stone

Emma Stone singing

Emma Stone singing

We know Stone can sing now because of La La Land, and of course you remember when her character became endearingly hooked on "Pocketful of Sunshine" in Easy A. But did you ever see her NSFW audition for a part in The Partridge Family? Talk about over-the-top!

Up next: Nicole Kidman

{pageBreak}

Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman Robbie Williams

Nicole Kidman Robbie Williams

I'll admit it. I was really surprised by Kidman's singing in Moulin Rouge. Before she "retired" as a singer, though, she put out an adorable video with Robbie Williams.

Jessica Biel

Jessica Biel sings

Jessica Biel sings

Justin isn't the only singer in the Timberlake household. Did you know his wife and former 7th Heaven star Jessica Biel can also sing? She actually has quite the pretty voice! Have a listen.

Zooey Deschanel

Zooey & Joseph -

Zooey & Joseph -

After a few other great roles, Deschanel caught everyone's attention as the adorable singing girl elf in Elf. She's since gone on to put out actual records and she regularly posts cute new videos of herself singing alone or with friends. And, yeah, she's singing the New Girl theme song.

There you have it! We might have missed a few along the way, but these ladies are our favorites.

Know any other actresses with a surprising talent for singing? Tell us!

The $6 Secret to Getting Rid of Brassy Hair: Food Coloring & Vinegar

$
0
0

Changing your natural hair color is a God-given right, but it’s not without its follies — I mean, pretty much everyone who messes with dye has scrambled to figure out how to get rid of brassy, orange hair at one point or another.

I’m a brunette who started coloring her hair in eighth grade — a semipermanent potion that imparted a quintessentially late-’90s auburn tint that I applied in my friend Elisabetta’s Upper East Side bathroom — and since have experimented with almost every shade in the book: Black, Debra Messing red, mousy brown, light brown, espresso brown and DIY ombré among them.

Eventually, I realized that the best and most flattering color for my skin tone is cool medium brown with a few blond highlights. Easy, right? You’d think, but it’s taken me years to pin down a colorist who understands the exact science of working with brown and blond without depositing any warm tones whatsoever. Shoutout to Julie at Pembley!

More: Here’s Exactly How to Curl Your Hair Like a Pro (3 Easy Steps)

Still, my hair does tend to pull red after my color’s faded, and both my highlights and base tend to get brassy with time — something that bothers me way more than it should. If I see one trace of orange, gold or red tones, my day is pretty much ruined, dramatic as that may be.

That’s why two Saturdays ago when I couldn’t get an appointment with my colorist, I spent the entire day researching DIY fixes for brass tones (beyond standard purple and blue shampoo). Most of what I found wasn’t bad, but tended to leave my hair looking a little fried and only truly worked on the blond sections.

I needed an overall fix, which is how I stumbled upon a concoction of red and blue food coloring and distilled white vinegar.

There are numerous blog posts and Pinterest boards dedicated to this method, which all vary slightly from one another, but the basis is the same — mixing red and blue will make purple, which neutralizes yellow-orange shades, and white vinegar is pretty much the OG for legitimate, holographic shine. Here’s exactly what I did:

  • 2-1/2 cups white vinegar
  • 10 drops blue food coloring
  • 3 – 4 drops red food coloring

Some beauty bloggers use neon purple food coloring for vibrancy, but I couldn’t find it at my local store — and when I get the urge to mess with my hair color, waiting a day or two for Amazon to deliver is out of the question. I needed those red tones gone, like, yesterday.

I found mixing red and blue worked like a dream as long as the concentration of blue is larger than the concentration of red.

Getting Rid of Brassy Hair With Food Coloring and Vinegar
Image: Perrie Samotin

Once I mixed the ingredients together in a measuring cup, I brought it with me to the shower, where I used shampoo and conditioner as I normally would. After rinsing, I poured the entire toner mixture evenly over my hair (be careful to tilt your head back to avoid getting it in your mouth and in your eyes — vinegar burns like a mother, something I learned the hard way), let it sit for about 10 seconds, then rinsed it out.

From there, I combed my hair, added my usual mixture of Phytodefrisant (a quarter-size amount), Redken Frizz Dismiss Rebel Tame (a nickel-size squeeze) and a few pumps of Shu Uemura Straightforward Time-Saving Blow Dry Oil Spray and let it air-dry for about an hour. During that time, I could absolutely see a difference in the tone of my highlights, but it wasn’t until I used a hair-dryer that I was able to see zero traces of brass throughout. It really, really worked.

Getting Rid of Brassy Hair
Image: Tiffany Hagler-Geard/Perrie Samotin

For further evidence of how well this worked, reference the photo above. The pic on the left is me a few months ago; the right, me after my at-home toner.

Some sites prefer to swap out the vinegar for white conditioner, but I’m going to stick with the vinegar — my thick hair usually leans toward matte, so it’s nice to have that extra boost of shine.

So far, I’ve done the toner treatment twice — it’s not permanent, so it won’t eradicate brass for more than a week or two, but as someone who will wear a hat if my hair starts to turn orange until I’m able to get to my colorist, it’s been a game-changer. It also costs around $6, which is cheaper than a chemical-filled boxed toner.

More: You Need to See This Woman’s Botched $300 Hair Dye Job

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

10 Things No One Ever Tells You About Hair Masks

$
0
0

You’d think they’d be a given holy grail, but a lot of us are still nervous about using an overnight hair mask on a regular basis. Masks can bring on a whole host of fears (Will it make my hair greasy? Will it wash out when I try to take it off? Do I have to sit still for five hours if I use one?), so we broke down the top 10 things that no one ever tells you about how to use a hair mask. And considering the amount of torture we put our hair through on a daily basis with heat-styling, teasing and coloring, Lord knows we need them.

1. You should use a mask once a week: Even if you think your hair is relatively healthy, the change of seasons can be hard on your strands (Winter winds! Summer sun!), so it’s good to get in the habit of using a mask weekly to make sure you’re giving your hair the moisture it needs.

2. Not all masks are created equal: There are a lot of “masks” on the market today, so be careful to read the directions. Some may be marketed as masks, but actually require daily use, while others are heavier, and therefore should just be used once or twice a week (depending on your hair type and amount of damage). Others still ask to be left in for one to two minutes or 15 and up, so choose which ones you can see yourself sticking to before you make your purchase — the key here is finding one that will realistically work for your routine.

More: Uh, Emma Stone Used Only Drugstore Hair Products to Create Her Oscars Waves

3. You can apply a hair mask to dry hair: If you’re willing to make a time commitment, apply your mask to dry hair and let it absorb for about 20 minutes (this is a great Sunday morning activity before you take a shower).

4. You can sleep in your hair mask: If you think your hair is especially dry, try sleeping in a hair mask. Simply apply the mask at the end of your shower (or apply it to dry hair) and cover with a shower cap or silk scarf that you don’t mind using for this purpose. Rinse out in the morning, and you’ll have silky soft hair!

5. Applying a hair mask does not need to take all day: Keep in mind that applying a mask does not need to take hours — you can put in a mask for two minutes as you’re shaving in the shower and get the moisture boost that your hair needs.

6. Your hair should not be greasy after: If you find that your hair is greasy after you apply a mask, you are most likely using one that is too heavy for your hair type. Look for one that is specific to your hair (whether it is fine, curly, etc.) and that should lead to better results. Also, don’t go overboard with the application — a little goes a long way.

7. You should still shampoo and condition after: You’ll always want to shampoo and condition your hair after you use a mask in order to make sure you won’t have any product build-up leftover and to make sure your hair is left in top condition.

More: The Best Under-$20 Hair Masks for Dry, Damaged Hair

8. There are tons of DIY recipes out there that work just as well: Since the entire goal of a hair mask is to add moisture to your hair, there are plenty of easy DIY ways to achieve this with the ingredients in your fridge. With ingredients like yogurt, honey and olive oil, you’ll have your strands looking great in no time.

9 . You should comb the mask through your hair: As a reminder, you should always be using a wide-tooth comb when handling wet hair — and when you apply a hair mask, you should comb it through to the ends to make sure you’ve applied it to every last spot before you let it sit.

10. Always try to concentrate on the ends of the hair: Lastly, your ends are the most fragile part of your hair (split ends anyone?) so always concentrate your mask to the ends of your hair, as they are most likely the part that needs the most love.

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Angelina Jolie's Fully Adulting by Now, but She Still Needs Her Mom

$
0
0

It's hard to ignore the influence our moms have on our lives, especially when your mother may be absent in your life. Take Angelina Jolie, whose mother, Marcheline Bertrand, died of cancer in 2007 and yet still remains present in Jolie's life. In a new interview with Elle France, Jolie opened up about how she misses her mom, especially now that she's a mother herself.

More: Angelina Jolie Spotted at Disneyland With Kids Celebrating Shiloh's 11th Birthday

One thing Jolie stressed in the interview was that Bertrand would have "thrived as a grandmother" to the six kids she shares with Brad Pitt. "I know how much she would have contributed to their lives and I am sad they will miss out on that," Jolie added. "I would give anything for her to be with me at this time. I’ve needed her. I talk to her often in my mind and try to think what she might say and how she might guide me."

It really makes you wonder how much Bertrand influenced Jolie's approach to parenting, as Entertainment Tonight puts it. This influence appears to be one that views her children as "the greatest gift and responsibility," as Jolie states, and stresses the importance of listening as she raises her kids.

More: Brad Pitt Paints a Very Bleak Picture in Rare Interview About His Divorce

"I try to lead by example, being conscious of others and being responsible, and to help them have a broader view of the world," she explained. "But really the only way I know to raise them is to really listen. It’s perhaps the most important thing any parent can do. They are resilient children but they are children, and as much as they need help to understand the hard truths in life, they also need what we all need — protection and love."

More: Angelina Jolie Chooses First Movie Project Since Split From Brad Pitt

Thanks for the reminder to appreciate our moms just as much today as we do on Mother's Day, Angelina Jolie.

If It Seems Like Your Dog Is Always Sick, Food Allergies Could Be the Culprit

$
0
0

There's a reason dogs are man's best friend — it's because they're an awful lot like humans. And just as many humans suffer from gluten and dairy intolerance, our furry four-legged counterparts are prone to food allergies too.

If your dog is constantly itchy and it seems like they are always getting ear infections, there's a good chance that his or her diet may be the problem.

Say what? Dogs can have food allergies?

Veterinarian Dr. Oscar Chavez, assistant professor at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona and veterinary consultant at Just Food For Dogs, says that 20 to 40 percent of veterinary visits are a result of allergies. Of those, 10 percent are food allergies according to Peteducation.com. In fact, food allergies are the third-leading cause of itching, scratching, skin lesions and hair loss in dogs.

More: Here's What to Do if Your Cat or Dog Gets Stung by a Bee

Signs of food allergies in your dog

Chavez says all of the following could be symptoms of food allergies:

  • Itchy skin
  • Scratching
  • Biting at paws
  • Bald spots
  • Hot spots
  • Redness
  • Skin infections
  • Chronic ear infections

Furthermore, some dogs have food intolerances. Maldigestion (upset GI) signs include:

  • Soft stools
  • Mucous in the stool
  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting

Common causes of food allergies

So what the heck is your dog allergic to?

"Studies have shown that what the body is reacting to is the proteins in the diet," explains Chavez. "This is usually a meat source, but can also include the protein found in wheat."

The most common causes of food allergies and intolerance in dogs are beef, milk products and wheat, according to Hill's Pet. Allergies can also be brought on by damage done to the digestive system through inflammation, infection, surgery and some medications.

If you suspect your dog could have food allergies, Chavez says you should read the first 10 ingredients in your dog's food to determine the protein that may be upsetting your dog's system. Common dog food ingredients are beef, chicken, lamb and fish.

"Some vets are also suspicious of the various preservatives, fillers and additives found in commercial dog food, although more research should be done in this area," adds Chavez.

More: Why Bone Broth Is a Healthy Diet Choice for Some Dogs

The elimination diet

To get to the bottom of your dog's issues, your pet will basically have to go through a doggified version of Whole30.

"The vet will send home a special 'hypoallergenic' prescription diet that is not known to be recognized by the dog's immune system and is therefore unlikely to cause a reaction," says Chavez.

"The owner must give this diet and only this diet — no treats or no scraps at all — for a minimum of 12 weeks. If the clinical signs resolve, then the vet should recommend a 're-challenge' with the original diet that was suspected of causing the allergies. If all the symptoms return within three to four weeks of switching back on to the old diet, then you have your diagnosis: food allergy."

Diets for dogs with food allergies

Feeding your dog a healthy diet isn't impossible — or even difficult — if you discover they have food allergies.

"Whole food diets are best, with no preservatives and no processed ingredients," says Chavez. "Traditionally, commercial pet foods are heavily processed. Look for diets that are whole, fresh and minimally processed. The more wholesome the diet, the less likely it is to trigger the immune system."

Chavez says that if you're ready to don your chef hat, you can work with a vet or veterinary nutritionist to make your own dog food. Or, if dog cuisine isn't your thing, "look for a commercial whole food source (i.e., Just Food For Dogs)," recommends Chavez. "The food should be able to go bad quickly if left out. You don't want it to actually go bad, but you do want it to be able to go bad. If your food lasts weeks or months in a bag, then that should be a red flag when it comes to nutrition!"

Don't panic

Chavez reminds us that if your dog has food allergies and you're able to confirm it, it's not the end of the world.

"In the world of allergies, this is the easiest one to manage," he says. "Find a food that works and stick with it strictly."

More: Simple Homemade Dog Treats You Can Whip Up in 20 Minutes or Less

This Comfort Food May Be the Key to Nailing a Second Date

$
0
0

What's the ideal go-to meal for a first date? You might think it’s something like sushi or tapas that can be found at trendy healthy restaurants that encourage interaction and sharing. But that's not necessarily the case according to new data that says the best way to get a second date is by sharing a meal that's as comforting (read: fatty and greasy) as possible.

Dating app Hinge surveyed 8,000 of the app’s users in major American cities and asked all sorts of questions about first date habits, including preferred date locations and cocktails. According to those users, the food most likely to lead to another date was fried chicken. That favored comfort food got 24 percent of the vote, followed by sushi and pizza.

More11 First date questions that separate the men from the boys

Research also found that drinks were considered an ideal way to move a first date along successfully, with a Bloody Mary being a top cocktail choice, followed by an Old Fashioned. Whatever you drink, just stay away from those tequila shots: That landed at the bottom of the list.

But back to fried chicken. What makes that a great meal choice for a first date? Is it that it’s comfort food and people are more laid back when they're eating it? Or is it that you're letting go of formal, fancy conventions, having fun and getting a little messy?

Whatever the reason, you know where to make reservations next time you swipe right — and I don't mean KFC, guys.

MoreWhat to do if you're stood up on a first date: 5 Rules to follow


Get Ready to Lose It Over the Newest Lay's Potato Chip Flavor

$
0
0

You may not immediately think "potato chips" when you think of summer, but Lay's is out to change all that. They have a bunch of new flavors coming out just in time for all your summer barbecues and poolside snacking sessions, and there's one in particular that's blowing my mind: Lay's BLT chips.

With every crispy bite, you get hit with the flavor of a classic BLT — bacon, lettuce, tomato, mayo — but you don't actually have to go through the hassle of frying up a bunch of bacon and then struggling to eat a messy sandwich that's basically a mayo Slip 'N Slide for tomato slices and lettuce.

And you usually eat potato chips along with your sandwich, right? So why not just combine the two for maximum efficiency?

lay blt chips
Image: Frito-Lay

More: 35 Outrageous ways to eat even more bacon

I know that meat-flavored snack foods are kind of iffy (looking at you, Chicken in a Biskit), but there's something transcendent about the smoky, savory flavor of bacon that makes it work in everything from cocktails to doughnuts. But if you're not sold on the concept, the other new summer flavors by Lay's sound totally delicious too.

In addition to Lay's BLT, there's Lay's Lime & Sea Salt, Ruffles Jalapeño Ranch, and Lay's Kettle Less Fat Cooked Sweet Chili & Sour Cream, all of which sound totally binge-able and are available as of Memorial Day weekend at grocery stores.

Either way, it's a far cry from the humdrum flavors I grew up snacking on. I guess getting older isn't so bad after all!

More: 37 depraved recipes in search of your leftover bacon

Joaquin Phoenix & Rooney Mara Low-Key Dropped a Relationship Bomb at Cannes

$
0
0

New celeb couple alert! This one has been rumored for a while, and they finally confirmed all our suspicions and took their relationship public. You guessed it: Joaquin Phoenix and Rooney Mara!

More: Apparently, Joaquin Phoenix is the reason Rooney Mara ditched the Golden Globes

They were all over the Cannes Film Festival and attended the closing ceremony together as a very couply-looking couple, and then the shock of his surprise golden-leaf prize win for best actor may have just shaken up Phoenix enough to admit it to a crowd.

Phoenix was given the award for his role in You Were Never Really Here, and he clearly didn't expect to win — when his name was announced, he turned to Mara, who was in the seat next to him, and asked her, "Do I have to go up there?" Then he took the stage and apologized for his Converse shoes.

"This was totally unexpected, as you can see from my shoes," he said from the stage.

Joaquin Phoenix accepts best actor award at Cannes

Joaquin Phoenix accepts best actor award at Cannes

More: Joaquin Phoenix told David Letterman he's engaged — but is he making it up?

Later on in the night at a press conference, Phoenix told reporters, "Before I came here, I told my girlfriend it was going to be a really good experience because I was going to get crushed and that would be really humbling."

There it is. He used the "girlfriend" word. This shit is confirmed with a capital C.

After the presser was over, Phoenix and Mara were seen holding hands and hanging out at the event before they left together in the same car.

"Small talk between them. Then they went for their car and he's holding her hand like it was unconscious. Like it fits. They seem a totally natural and easy couple," one onlooker said.

More: Cate Blanchett's recent remarks suggest Rooney Mara deserves Golden Globes win (VIDEO)

Phoenix and Mara met on the set of Her and reportedly fell for each other while filming their upcoming movie, Mary Magdalene. They've been rumored to be dating pretty much ever since, which is something we fully support.

Does It Seriously Matter if You Use Expired Sunscreen?

$
0
0

We’re willing to bet that right now, you have two or three tubes of sunscreen sitting in your drawer from last summer… or maybe it was a few summers ago… it was sometime in the last decade, OK? Which brings about the age-old, constantly bewildering question that accompanies sunscreen: Does it expire? Like, does it really, really expire, or is that use-by date just a bunch of marketing bullshit? The answer is yes, it does expire — but not as quickly as you might think.

According to Mayo Clinic (you know, one of the best hospitals in the nation), most sunscreens are designed to stay effective at their original strength for up to three years, which means yes, you can use that tube that you bought last year and never got around to opening. But before you slather it on, check to make sure it doesn’t have an expiration date. If it does and you’ve surpassed it, throw that sucker out — some formulas really aren’t effective after their expiration date due to specific ingredient formulations, so there’s no guarantee you’ll get full (or any) protection if you use an expired formula before heading into the sun.

Of course, if you’ve kept your tube of sunscreen in, say, the glove box of your hot-as-hell car for three years straight, letting it cook and warp under the harsh summer rays, you need to toss it in the trash, pronto. Sorry, but heat and humidity can cause the formula to separate and destabilize, rendering it ineffective at protecting you against sunburns, skin damage and, you know, skin cancer. And to be totally safe (unless you’re positive your old sunscreen sat in a temperature-controlled drawer for the last year), your best bet is to buy a new tube this summer. Not sure where to start? Check out our favorite under-$10 drugstore sunscreens below, and get slathering.

Dry skin: 

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 for Face
Image: Target

Aveeno Protect + Hydrate Lotion Sunscreen with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 for Face (Target, $8.19)

Sensitive skin: 

L'Oréal Paris Ideal Moisture Sensitive Skin Day Lotion SPF 25
Image: L'Oréal Paris

L'Oréal Paris Ideal Moisture Sensitive Skin Day Lotion SPF 25 (L'Oréal Paris, $6.99)

Oily skin:

No7 Beautiful Skin Oil Free Skin Protector SPF 25
Image: Target

No7 Beautiful Skin oil-free skin protector SPF 25 (Target, $9.99)

Acne-prone skin: 

Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid-Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30
Image: Walmart

Neutrogena Clear Face Liquid-Lotion Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 30 (Walmart, $9.97)

Combo skin: 

Eucerin Daily Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizing Face Lotion
Image: Walmart

Eucerin Daily Protection Broad Spectrum SPF 30 Sunscreen Moisturizing Face Lotion (Walmart, $7.86)

Ariana Grande Sets a Date for Manchester Attack Benefit Concert

$
0
0

Updated May 30, 2017, 1 p.m. PT: Ariana Grande has set a date for a Manchester benefit concert that will raise funds for victims of the terror attack at her show in the city earlier this month.

Ariana Grande Manchester benefit concert date announced

Ariana Grande Manchester benefit concert date announced

Grande will perform at the show, and big names including Katy Perry, Justin Bieber, Miley Cyrus, Coldplay, Pharrell Williams, Usher and Niall Horan have also joined the lineup.

Those who were at Grande's May 22 show in Manchester will receive free tickets to the benefit concert. Others can buy tickets beginning June 1.

Updated May 29, 2017, 1:30 p.m. PT: Ariana Grande's older brother, Frankie Grande, has released a statement on the bombing at her concert in Manchester, echoing many of the sentiments she wrote in her heartfelt open letter released to fans last week.

"My prayers, thoughts, meditations & strength has been focused on those families and victims affected by the horrific tragedy in Manchester," Frankie wrote on Twitter in the first of a series of tweets containing his statement on the event. "I echo my sister’s sentiment & say we can't allow hate to propagate hate & fear to propagate fear, but rather come together & spread a message of love, unity, & empowement [sic]."

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 5

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 5

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 4

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 4

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 3

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 3

He continued, "& so I say, as I have before, shine bright, & when evil comes 2drown out your light, 3throw shade over your beautiful soul, shine brighter!"

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 2

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 2

He ended his statement with a link to a British Red Cross fundraising page for the victims and their families, writing, "I love you all so very much and thank you for your strength during this incredibly difficult time."

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 1

Frankie Grande releases Manchester statement 1

Original story:

Ariana Grande is speaking to her fans after the bombing at her Manchester concert in a heartfelt open letter posted to Instagram Friday.

More: After the Manchester Attack, My Fear Can't Be My Son's

"My heart, prayers and deepest condolences are with the victims of the Manchester Attack and their loved ones," she wrote. "There is nothing I or anyone can do to take away the pain you are feeling or to make this better. However, I extend my hand and heart and everything I possibly can give to you and yours, should you want or need my help in any way."

She continued, "The only thing we can do now is choose how we let this affect us and how we live our lives from here on out. I have been thinking of my fans, and of you all, non stop over the past week. The way you have handled all of this has been more inspiring and made me more proud than you'll ever now. The compassion, kindness, love, strength and oneness that you've shown one another this past week is the exact opposite of the heinous intentions it must take to pull off something as evil as what happened Monday."

Ariana Grande open letter to fans after Manchester

Ariana Grande open letter to fans after Manchester

More: In Typical Kardashian Fashion, Kim's Manchester Post Started a Huge Debate

The lengthy letter goes on to apologize to the fans who were affected and to promise that the terror attack will not divide them or "let hate win."

"I don't want to go the rest of the year without being able to see and hold and uplift my fans, the same way they continue to uplift me," Grande wrote. "Our response to this violence must be to come closer together, to help each other, to love more, to sing louder and to live more kindly and generously than we did before. I'll be returning to the incredibly brave city of Manchester to spend time with my fans and to thank my fellow musicians and friends for reaching out to be a part of our expression of love for Manchester. I will have details to share with you as soon as everything is confirmed."

She ended her letter with a promise to continue to honor those lost in the bombing, which killed 22 and wounded 59 others.

"We will continue in honor of the ones we lost, their loved ones, my fans and all affected by this tragedy," she wrote. "They will be on my mind and in my heart everyday and I will think of them with everything I do for the rest of my life."

More: Harry Styles Addresses Manchester Attack at His Mexico City Concert

This is the first time Grande has spoken out about the attack other than a short tweet she posted immediately after it happened, writing that she was "broken" and "so so sorry" for the tragedy.

Ariana Grande tweets about Manchester bombing

Ariana Grande tweets about Manchester bombing

In the days since news of the bombing hit, numerous celebrities and politicians have spoken out in support of both Grande and the victims of the tragedy. Queen Elizabeth II even visited victims at the Manchester Royal Children's Hospital this week.

ISIL has claimed responsibility for the attack, and as of Friday, eight men were in custody while police searched for a ninth, the man believed to be responsible for actually constructing the device that suicide bomber Salman Abedi detonated at the concert.

Grande is still in her hometown of Boca Raton, Florida, and has suspended her tour until at least June 5.

Former Bachelorette Contestant Michael Nance Dies at Age 31

$
0
0

The morning after one of the all-time greatest episodes of The Bachelorette ever to air, Bachelor Nation was rocked by some terrible news. Michael Nance, one of the men who vied for Emily Maynard's heart during Season 8, has died.

Nance's official cause of death hasn't been determined, but social media posts from those who knew him seem to point toward substance abuse as a possible factor. A spokesperson for the Austin Police Department Homicide Unit would only say that Nance's death was not being treated as a crime.

"At this point it is not a suspicious death and the manner will be determined by the medical examiner," the spokesperson told E! News, adding that officers were sent to investigate an unresponsive male in the early morning on Wednesday. Nance was pronounced dead at 2:54 a.m.

Maynard took to Twitter after hearing the news, writing, "So sad waking up to the news about Michael Nance. Such a kind heart with so much talent. Sending prayers and love to his family and friends."

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 1

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 1

Other former stars of the show also expressed their condolences on social media, including Sean Lowe, Chris Bukowski and Arie Luyendyk Jr., who wrote that Nance had struggled with addiction.

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 2

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 2

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 3

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 3

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 4

Bachelor Nation reacts to news of Michael Vance 4

This isn't the first time Bachelor Nation has been rocked by the death of one of its stars. Eric Hill, a competitor on Andi Dorfman's season of The Bachelorette, died in a paragliding accident just before his season aired. Erin Storm, a competitor on The Bachelor Season 12, died in a plane crash. To date, three former Bachelor or Bachelorette contestants have taken their own lives: Gia Allemand, Julien Hug and Lex McAllister.

10 Questions With the New Star of Shonda Rhimes' Still Star-Crossed

$
0
0

Lashana Lynch is about to break out in a major way, crossing over from the U.K. to the U.S. as Rosaline in ABC's Still Star-Crossed. The latest addition to the Shondaland rotation on ABC, Still Star-Crossed imagines what happens after the events of Romeo & Juliet, concerning itself with the drama, grief and political turbulence left in the wake of the deaths of the infamous young lovers.

At the heart of Still Star-Crossed is Lynch's character, Rosaline, revealed to be Juliet's cousin. Still Star-Crossed begins with the secret wedding between Juliet and Romeo (with Rosaline and Romeo's cousin Benvolio acting as witnesses), but interestingly, in the final days of the star-crossed lovers, they're merely background players to the story. There's plenty of political intrigue brewing in Verona and the extraneous personal dramas of their family members, with a great portion of the focus landing on Rosaline's shoulders.

More: Still Star-Crossed Is Making Shakespeare Hot Again

In the pilot, it's clear that Rosaline is a forward-thinking woman with a mind of her own, dreams of her own and a strong desire to break free of a life that has been somehow predetermined for her. Still Star-Crossed turns her into one of the main reasons you should watch; come for the Shakespearean intrigue, but stay for Rosaline and her journey.

There's the revelation that she has a romantic history with Prince Escalus, chief lawmaker in Verona now that his father has died and the one who orders Rosaline to marry Benvolio. There's the way in which she stands up to her aunt, Juliet's mother, a woman with her own dark secrets who seems intent on cloistering away her orphaned niece. There's also the way in which it's clear Rosaline is not afraid to speak her mind, to do what she must to protect her sister while fighting for peace among the warring families.

Still Star-Crossed Lashana Lynch 1
Image: Manu Trillo/ABC

Her emotional journey underlines these actions, as it's established in the pilot that she is deeply troubled that she is not allowed the dignity of her own agency and independence. Rosaline's life, it's revealed at the end of the first episode, is forever changed when she is ordered to marry Romeo's cousin Benvolio. This arranged marriage, which she has no say in, is a complete change from the quiet escape to a nunnery that she yearns for. She longs to be in control of her own life now that she and her sister are orphaned by the civil war being waged between these two venerable Veronese families.

More: Things I Yelled at My TV While Watching The Bachelorette Premiere

Rosaline's characterization hits a strong, fiercely feminist chord in the show. The pilot is teeing up plenty of plotlines, but it's evident that for Rosaline, we're going to see a lot more of this strength coming out as people around her attempt to force her into a predetermined role she wants no part of and she pushes back, fighting for the right to control her own life.

Still Star-Crossed Lashana Lynch 2
Image: Jose Haro/ABC

There's no doubt that this is a part made for Lynch and that she deserves to become a household name because of it. Lynch's IMDb résumé boasts a small yet steadily rising career, moving around in the world of U.K. television and smaller U.K. films like 2012's Fast Girls. Still Star-Crossed will arguably be Lynch's most notable and biggest role to date, but it's clear she is deserving of the role after working so hard to earn it.

More: Using Only 9 Words, Meredith Just Destroyed Fans During the Grey's Anatomy Finale

It's clearly not easy to be Rosaline in Still Star-Crossed, but Lynch's performance makes it look like a damn thrilling adventure. Part of the reason Rosaline is so well-characterized is thanks to Lynch's performance. She turns Rosaline into a modern heroine, rounding her out with a nuanced range of emotions that leaves you cheering her on. Whether you're a fan of Shakespeare or you're looking for the next great feminist TV heroine to watch week after week, Still Star-Crossed is ready to give you what you want.

Kathy Griffin Crosses Line with Gory Trump Photo, Eventually Apologizes

$
0
0

Kathy Griffin has crossed a lot of lines in her career as a self-professed D-list comedian, but this time she may finally have gone too far — a shocking photo published by TMZ on Tuesday morning shows Griffin holding the (fake) decapitated head of Donald Trump.

Accompanying the photo, Griffin included a title of sorts, saying, "I caption this 'there was blood coming out of his eyes, blood coming out of his ... wherever,'" a clear nod to a jab Trump took at Megyn Kelly during the Republican presidential debates.

More: Ellen DeGeneres is Hollywood's Secret Mean Girl, According to Kathy Griffin

But Griffin's brand of off-color humor isn't flying this time, and she is being skewered by seemingly everyone. Both sides of the political spectrum are speaking out against the gory and senseless photo shoot, reminding the controversial comedian that glorifying violence is never funny.

Kathy Griffin Stunt 1

Kathy Griffin Stunt 1

Kathy Griffin Stunt 2

Kathy Griffin Stunt 2

Kathy Griffin Stunt 3

Kathy Griffin Stunt 3

Kathy Griffin Stunt 4

Kathy Griffin Stunt 4

Kathy Griffin Stunt 5

Kathy Griffin Stunt 5

Donald Trump Jr. also weighed in on the disturbing photo, saying he was disgusted but not surprised.

Kathy Griffin Stunt 6

Kathy Griffin Stunt 6

As Debra Messing (and numerous others) pointed out, though, this behavior isn't in fact endemic to the left or liberals — with the bottom line being that it is always unacceptable.

Kathy Griffin Stunt 7

Kathy Griffin Stunt 7

In response to the massive backlash to the photo shoot, Griffin at first remained unfazed, as did photographer Tyler Shields. The two tweeted practically playfully over the fact the photo had gone viral and was protected under artistic expression.

More: Kathy Griffin Slams Fashion Police with a Very Specific Insult

Griffin followed up with a series of now-deleted tweets, stating, "OBVIOUSLY, I do not condone ANY violence by my fans or others to anyone ever!" and, subsequently, "I'm merely mocking the Mocker in Chief."

Kathy Griffin Stunt 8

Kathy Griffin Stunt 8

This, dear readers, is what you call a non-apology. Upon getting heat for the photo shoot, Griffin's initial response was to defend her actions and offer an excuse for her behavior. Eventually, Griffin replaced her unapologetic tweets with an actual apology.

In a short video posted on her Twitter page, Griffin says, "Hey everybody, it's me, Kathy Griffin. I sincerely apologize. I am just now seeing the reaction to these images. I'm a comic. I crossed the line. I move the line. Then I cross it. I went way too far. The image is too disturbing. I understand how it offends people. It wasn't funny. I get it. I've made a lot of mistakes in my career. I will continue. I ask your forgiveness. Taking down the image. I am going to ask the photographer to take down the image. And I beg for your forgiveness. I went too far. I made a mistake and I was wrong."

Kathy Griffin Stunt 9

Kathy Griffin Stunt 9

Given that Griffin's apology seems rushed and a bit rehearsed, it remains to be seen whether or not the public will accept it at face value or find it to be lacking sincerity.

More: Kit Harington Says What We're All Thinking About Donald Trump

Griffin often relies on shock value to grab headlines, but the genuine hope here is that she truly understands how irresponsible and, quite frankly, dangerous it is to politicize and profit from violent images like the one she created with Mr. Shields.


Channel Your Inner Don Draper With This Old-Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

$
0
0

Even if you're not a huge fan of bourbon, you're going to totally dig sipping on an old-fashioned. The classic cocktail is smooth and fruity, but not over-the-top sweet. Plus, you just look super-cool and retro when you're drinking it.

Seriously, put on a snappy outfit, whip up an old-fashioned, and you'll instantly look like you just stepped straight off the set of Mad Men.

Bourbon is an in-your-face kind of spirit, but in a really good way once you decide you like it. It's not like vodka, where the taste disappears into whatever mixer you add in. If you're looking for a cosmo or a lemon drop kind of experience, run the opposite direction of bourbon.

More: 20 Classic Mad Men-Inspired Cocktails That Will Never Go Out of Style

The old-fashioned is a classic, no-frills cocktail that packs a punch. And it's a cocktail that any bourbon drinker should have in their repertoire. Plus, it's a good excuse to use a maraschino cherry.

Watch the video to learn how to make it. At the end of a long week, it's perfection.

Old-fashioned recipe

Ingredients:

  • 2 ounces bourbon whiskey
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 splash water
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1 maraschino cherry
  • 1 orange wedge

Directions:

  1. Mix sugar, water and Angostura bitters in old-fashioned glass. Drop in cherry and an orange wedge.
  2. Muddle into a paste using muddler or the back end of a spoon.
  3. Pour in bourbon, fill with ice cubes and stir.

More: 5 of the Healthiest Alcoholic Beverages You Can Get at a Bar

The Surprising Downside of Girls Going Through Puberty Early

$
0
0

Girls who go through puberty at a younger age are more at risk for dating abuse, according to a new study.

“Clearly, [senior researcher Sara] Jaffee pointed out, not all girls who mature early experience dating abuse — and girls who mature later are not immune from it. It’s actually striking that dating abuse was common across the board, she said,” according to MedlinePlus.

More: What is emotional abuse?

According to the study published in the journal Pediatrics, 32 percent of girls who went through puberty early said that their boyfriend had verbally or physically abused them; only 28 percent of girls who went through puberty at average times said the same.

According to DoSomething.org, about 1.5 million high school boys and girls report relationship abuse in the U.S.

The study further emphasizes how one of the contributing factors to the link between early puberty and dating abuse may be the fact that girls who go through puberty earlier may look older than their peers.

More: When teen dating violence hits your family

“When kids look older than they are, some people may expect them to 'act older' than they are,” stated Dr. Nancy Dodson, an adolescent medicine specialist at Children’s Hospital at Montefiore, to MedlinePlus.

The research findings encourage parents to open dialogue with their children about what makes up a healthy relationship and look for warning signs that may indicate abusive relationships.

By Vivian Nunez

Originally published on HelloFlo.

Dad Writes Blog Post About Leashing His 'Wild Child' — & Comments Blow Up

$
0
0

If there's one item in a parent's arsenal of products that is sure to spark controversy and guarantee a bunch of Judgy McJudgersons will immediately feel the need to weigh in on just how lousy a parent you must be, it's got to be the notorious child leash. No matter how judiciously used by a parent, this lifesaver of an item still gets a bad rap.

More: Before you judge the leash on my kid, hear me out

But one dad ain't got time for that. Clint Edwards, who writes the blog No Idea What I'm Doing: A Daddy Blog, posted to Facebook on Saturday about leashing his "wild child" daughter at the local farmers market — with zero shame.

"She's a wild child, and this thing has already kept her out of the road and from sticking her hand in an ice cream machine, along with keeping me sane.

"The real difficulty with having a wild child is that you are damned if you do, and damned if you don't. Because the fact is, if I didn't put Aspen on a leash while at amusement parks, the zoo, a crowded mall... she'd be the kid popping up in every Facebook feed for wandering into a shopping center parking lot, unattended. She could be the child climbing into the tiger cage... Her curiosity is incredible, and for only having a 12-inch stride, she moves faster than any Olympian."

More: Put your kid on a leash — it's OK

The post has been viewed over 11,000 times — and shared more than 3,000 times. But as always, it's in the 2,500 comments where you can really see the absurdity of humanity on display. You can see the full post here on Facebook, with the whole comment thread:

kid leash

kid leash

As you can imagine, the comment thread lit the beep up with a mix of responses. There were many positive replies from other parents who have needed the leash to keep a child safe, as well as replies from the smug collective (some parents, some not) insisting if you're doing your job right as a parent, you wouldn't need a leash. *Insert eye roll*

One supportive parent wrote: "Almost 10 years ago, I was the Mother getting all of the looks for having my child on a leash. It was worth every tear and humiliating look because I have all of my kids safe and as sane as they can be."

Another wrote: "Until those judgmental people have a runner or as you describe a child with a wild streak. They will never understand. Parents of truly spirited children just get it, no explanation needed."

YASSS.

But here's a doozy of a negative response from a man who sounds like he's never cared for an actual not-in-a-book child in his life:

"Putting your child on a leash says a lot about your knowledge of parenting, discipline and unrealistic value of safety parameters and you should be judged. Toddlers as early as two years old, understand easy commands, empathy and cause and effect. A leash is definitely a symbol that the parent missed the boat when it came to administering consistent behavioral 'teaching strategies' with your child's social development. A 'wild child' is an ignorant excuse."

More: I'm keeping my kid on a leash until age 11 — in defense of helicopter parenting

And another snarky reply:

"The words 'leash' and 'kid' shouldn't be allowed in the same sentence. But i guess this is for people that don't know how to parent? How to teach our kids wrong from right? Who pay no attention to what their kid is doing? This right here is why there are so many damn brats out in this world. What's going to happen with [sic] she starts going to school?? Yeah, i completely admit it....I'm one of 'those people' that give these parents a dirty look whenever i see this bullshit."

Oh, please. You admit to giving struggling parents dirty looks? You're the damn brat in our book.

We call foul on the haters. Like this dad, we ain't got time for parent-shaming — especially when it comes to making choices to keep your kid safe.

Do Hair, Skin & Nail Vitamins Really Work?

$
0
0

It’s a question pondered by the beauty-obsessed everywhere: Do hair, skin and nail vitamins work? With a slew of beauty supplements on the market touting benefits from detoxifying skin to straight-up erasing wrinkles, sometimes it leaves us wondering if just applying our vitamin serum at night isn’t enough — must we ingest it too?

We spoke with Dr. Marina Peredo, associate clinical professor of dermatology at Mount Sinai Hospital, and Josephine Tutrani, a clinical nutritionist who specializes in customizing diets for antiaging, weight loss, hair loss, acne and other skin conditions, to get the lowdown on what’s on the market, what works and what’s just a bunch of hokum.

The top three supplements for your hair, skin & nails

“I recommend supplements to patients who are looking to address certain skin, nail or hair issues,” says Peredo. In particular, she suggests three supplements that have proven to be extremely effective in addressing certain skin issues.

Biotin

“Biotin encourages the production of protein for nail growth when absorbed in the core of the nail bed, where the cells are generated,” says Peredo. “In addition, it also stimulates new hair growth and promotes healthier texture by protecting against dryness, scalp flaking and increasing elasticity of the hair’s cortex to prevent breakage. I recommend it to my patients who have any concerns with thinning hair or brittle nails.”

Try: NeoCell Biotin Bursts Brazilian Acai Berry (Walgreens, $13)

Vitamin B

“I usually advise my patients who have acne to take a vitamin B complex to help clear them up,” says Peredo. “Vitamin B acts as an antioxidant for the skin, which can assist in removing bacteria. It helps to balance one’s testosterone levels, which keeps acne at bay. Vitamin B deficiency is also a major cause of acne, so making sure your body receives enough will help prevent and treat the condition. And if that’s not enough, vitamin B also helps to reduce stress and address the adrenal glands, so it’s beneficial to those who break out when stressed.”

Try: Murad Pure Skin Clarifying Supplement (SkinStore, $34)

Marine fatty acids

“When ingested, marine fatty acids such as omega-3 work to combat dry and damaged hair, hair loss and a flaky scalp. The DHA and EPA found in omega-3 adds luster, elasticity and shine to dull strands, promoting the restart of hair growth,” says Peredo. “Furthermore, the dietary fat found in omega-3 fatty acids helps protect and repair skin cells, moisturizing the skin from the inside out. Omega-3 can even protect skin from burning and overexposure to UV rays, so I suggest to my patients to have at least one to two capsules of the supplement a day.”

Try: Perricone MD Omega 3 Dietary Supplement (Perricone MD, $42); Viviscal Hair Growth Program (Dermstore, $50)

Vitamins with (some) beauty benefits

What about the rest of them? They’re not harmful, says Peredo, but to see dramatic skin benefits, one would have to ingest megadoses of the vitamins, much more than what is actually in the supplements. Though one shouldn’t expect dramatic results, clinical nutritionist Josephine Tutrani says that getting enough of vitamins A,C and E is very important for healthy skin — and surprise, surprise — many beauty supplements on the market usually feature a combination of those ingredients.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A helps keep skin smooth and rejuvenated, says Tutrani, and is especially recommended for preventative purposes and those with acne-prone skin. However, to see dramatic skin results, one would have to take a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, such as Accutane. The good old natural vitamin pills won’t hurt, but also won’t cause significant changes.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is important for the formation of collagen; however, it would really require a very high dosage to see results, advises Peredo. And since this vitamin is water soluble, taking more of it orally would just result in it being dispelled through urination. So make sure you have enough in your diet, but don’t expect it to perform miracles as a supplement.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a great antioxidant and natural anti-inflammatory. In patients with eczema or psoriasis, Peredo has seen vitamin E supplements help soothe inflammation in some cases, but there is not enough medical evidence to state conclusively that it will always work.

The final verdict? Nothing wrong in popping these pills, we say, but be realistic about their product claims and don’t expect to see dramatic results.

Try: Phyto Phytophanère Dietary Supplement (Sephora, $84 for two)

Beauty supplements to skip

Recently, we’ve also come across new supplements that increase human growth hormones — and with it, promise to get rid of wrinkles and make you look years younger. According to Peredo, this is one category you can skip. While human growth hormone therapy is helpful if you have pituitary gland concerns, there is no proof that it will do anything for antiaging.

One last thing to remember: Although, most beauty supplements and vitamins on the market are harmless, it’s important to consult with your doctor or nutritionist before starting on any kind of regimen, especially if you’re taking other medications, as some additives in supplements can interact adversely.

More: Weird Ways Your Skin Changes Each Day

Originally posted on StyleCaster.

Moms Act Out in Video the Hilarious Reality of Changing Diapers Mid-flight

$
0
0

Remember that movie Snakes on a Plane?

Yeah, that was never going to be scary. You know what's actually terrifying? Diapers on a plane.

You feel us. We know you feel us.

More: Everything you need to know about flying with a baby

Two YouTube moms we love, Kristin Hensley and Jen Smedley of #IMomSoHard, just re-enacted a mid-flight diaper change on a kitchen counter, and we cannot stop laughing. Dang, we really need to get these women's numbers and start a Wednesday pizza and merlot club.

More: 9 reasons to travel with your baby during the first year

If you've ever had to travel with a baby or a toddler by air, this video is dedicated to you.

diaper plane

diaper plane

As usual, these two are hilariously on point. Diapers and travel do not mix well, but there's no escaping either nightmare. Best plan? Keep laughing, carry a bucket of hand sanitizer and hope the flight attendants take pity on you and offer you free wine.

Viewing all 33701 articles
Browse latest View live




Latest Images