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Wonder Woman Dominates the New Justice League Trailer

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It's about time superhero films realized that girl power sells.

More: Oprah's Wonder Woman Screening Party for 10-Year-Olds Was Everything

At San Diego Comic-Con, DC introduced a new teaser trailer for the upcoming Justice League film, and Gal Gadot's Wonder Woman takes the lead.

The four-minute trailer is currently the No. 1 video on YouTube, and for good reason. It starts with Wonder Woman kicking some serious ass before telling a colleague at work she did "nothing very interesting" over the weekend. Oh, Diana, so coy.

We also get to see her home island of Themyscira as well as her mother, Hippolyta, and villain Steppenwolf, which means Diana's storyline from Wonder Woman will continue to play out in Justice League.

More: Gal Gadot Did Some Amazing Things Before She Was Wonder Woman

Don't worry, you also get to see Jason Momoa as Aquaman, Ben Affleck as Batman and Ezra Miller as a surprisingly hilarious Flash. But one hero is missing: Superman (Henry Cavill), who "died" in Batman vs. Superman. He isn't shown at all, though the trailer alludes to Superman multiple times. I mean... obviously he's not dead dead, right?

Gadot assured fans that Superman's absence definitely doesn't mean the franchise forgot about him. "If you're a fan of Superman, you're going to be very, very happy," she said during the panel, according to Huffington Post.

It makes sense that Diana Prince would take the lead in this film. Superman is MIA, Batman is all moody, Aquaman is too new to the scene and Flash is too young. It's gonna be up to Diana to rally the troops.

More: Ryan Reynolds Paid Sweet Homage to Wonder Woman

Check out the Justice League teaser below.

justice league trailer 1 comic con

justice league trailer 1 comic con

Is it all about Wonder Woman for you, or do you have another favorite member of the Justice League?


Troian Bellisario Gets Real About Her Struggle With Anorexia

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Troian Bellisario has taken her Pretty Little Liars fame and used it to fuel some important conversations with her new movie, Feed. The movie, which she wrote and stars in, is based on her own experience with anorexia and follows a girl struggling with an eating disorder after the death of her twin brother.

More: Troian Bellisario Says She's Staying Out of the Taylor Swift-Kimye Feud, But...

Bellisario spoke to Huffington Post about the film, which she hopes will start a conversation about eating disorders. "It’s a challenging time for this community because talking about it always brings up feelings, but I think it’s also really important for us to be open in our conversations and not be treated as a taboo subject because eating disorders are alienating," she said.

Feed comes just on the heels of Netflix's film about eating disorders called To the Bone, which stars Lily Collins as a young girl struggling to recover. To the Bone's depiction of eating disorders has caused a lot of controversy. But Bellisario isn't shying away from the conversation just because it's a tough one to have.

More: Does Netflix's Newest Film To the Bone Represent or Romanticize Eating Disorders?

"They are isolating," Bellisario said of eating disorders, "and they leave you to feel like nobody understands your experience and you’re suffering alone, and that’s actually how they’re designed to keep you in a place of pain. You know that your disorder is screaming so loud when it tells you, 'You can’t ever tell anybody about this because you’ll never get out and nobody will understand you or help you.' So, I think the fact that we’re talking about it and making treatment not scary but a possibility for people, I think it’s a really important conversation, as challenging as it might be."

Feed is now on iTunes and on demand.

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

Thinking About Having Sex Without a Condom? Read This First

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Disclaimer: If you're having sex, safe sex is the only way to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Congratulations — you think you’re ready to have sex without a condom! But first, there are a few — actually, a lot of — things you need to know. Starting with this: Safe sex is the only way to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections. While oral contraceptives and other forms of birth control (i.e., the shot or intrauterine devices), do protect against pregnancy, only a condom blocks against the transmission of sexual infections such as HPV, chlamydia, herpes, HIV, syphilis, or more.

More: Why you need to talk to your lesbian daughter about unprotected sex

“Even though a patient may be on birth control, there is definitely still a chance that she can get pregnant, especially if she isn’t taking the pill every day at the same time,” says Dr. Carla Guarini. “A patient should make sure to have her partner tested because without the barrier protection of the condom, there is no protection against any [STIs] like gonorrhea, chlamydia, HIV, etc.”

Sometimes people in monogamous relationships who have taken proper safety precautions — meaning some form of reliable contraceptives — who have gotten tested for STIs and who trust each other decide to have sex without a condom. If you are currently in a relationship and considering doing the deed sans condom, there’s a lot to reflect on before giving the go-ahead.

(Consent reminder: Even if you give the go-ahead, you can always take it back if you feel uncomfortable and change your mind. Never feel bad about rescinding consent.)

The proof is in the pudding: Skin-to-skin contact feels way better (for both parties, regardless of their sex or gender) than the barrier of condom material. But while coming (ahem) to terms with that truth, we must also realize that having sex — with or without a condom — is paired with massive responsibility. When you consent to sex without a condom, you’re opening yourself up to not only the possibility of an unintended pregnancy but also coming into contact with another person's bodily fluids — a biological reality that makes you susceptible to contracting an STI.

More: Semen Allergies Are Real & Can Make It Harder to Conceive

“Every time you have sex, even if you are going to use a condom, make sure there are no ulcers or lesions (things that look like pimples) around your partner’s genital area. If there are, they could be an active herpes outbreak,” Guarini says. “Even if you do use a condom with someone with open lesions, if the lesions are in an area the condom doesn’t cover, you can still contract herpes.”

Infections can be spread by vaginal fluid, semen, pre-ejaculate and blood; any contact with these bodily fluids puts a person at risk. If your partner does not have a history of any STIs, then you should be in the clear. If you don’t know whether your partner has an STI, you should have a conversation first before having sex. If your partner does have an STI, you should also have a conversation about what having unsafe sex with this person means for both of you.

“Just in case you have skipped a few (or more) oral contraceptive pills, ovulation normally happens two weeks after the first day of your period, so that means you are most fertile 10 to 16 days after the first day of your last period. Avoid having sex during that week. But birth control works by preventing your ovaries from releasing eggs, so if you have missed a few days of pills, it throws off the hormone balance in your body, allowing you to ovulate at any time,” Guarini says. “To be the safest, if you’ve missed a few pills, wait to have sex without a condom until you get your period the next time. Then start taking your pills normally. Use condoms during sex until then.”

STIs aren’t the only repercussions of ditching the condom that you need to be aware of. According to a recent Australian study, having sex without a condom also increases a woman’s risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. Nothing is transmitted in this case; essentially, condom-less sex disrupts the vagina’s natural ecosystem, boosting infection-causing bacteria that already live in the vagina in healthy amounts. Bacterial vaginosis symptoms include painful sex and discharge categorized as “unusual,” therefore unrelated to the menstrual cycle.

Speaking of fluids, let’s talk about semen. When and if you decide to go through with unprotected sex, you should know the semen ejaculated into you won’t just disappear or… uh… absorb. Rather, semen “pools” in the vagina like a puddle once it’s ejaculated, but since it doesn’t really travel through the minuscule opening of the non-dilated cervix unless a woman’s ovulating, it will likely run back out (especially if you’re immediately vertical).

Yeah, it’s gross: Semen drips out the vagina. But it’s better to know that’s the case before you do it for the first time and that happens to you. Don’t panic — it’s totally normal.

Before making the decision to bareback it, make sure your birth control is in order. If you’re taking oral contraceptives, this means taking your pill every single day. In the event that you miss a pill, take it immediately, as soon as you remember. If you miss more than one, immediately refer to your particular birth control’s instructions or consult your gynecologist for the next steps.

Birth control takes — at minimum — one week to become effective (make sure to consult your gyno about your specific brand, as some take a month) so make sure to postpone any free-willy-ing until oral contraceptives do their thing. For hormonal IUDs, most doctors say to wait seven days, using back-up birth control until the intrauterine device kicks in. Again, consult your doctor for best practices.

More: Can Mindfulness Benefit Your Sex Life?

The last thing you need to know before getting freaky in the sheets: Both you and your partner should get checked. Within a month of having sex without a condom, you should be scheduling a screening to ensure that neither of you has contracted anything. In the wake of your first screening, you should continue getting tested at least once a year after that.

“Never be afraid to ask your partner about sexually transmitted diseases,” Guarini says. “You are your best advocate for your health.”

By Stephanie Osmanski

Originally published on HelloFlo.

A Fitness Studio Saved My Postpartum Mental Health

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The postpartum months are tough. We just gave birth to this beautiful human being, but at the same time, we’re scrambling to feel a sense of normalcy with ourselves, our routines and our bodies. Everyone’s journey to getting to “that place” where they can feel in their bones that things have shifted back to their prepregnancy norm is different. For me, I joined a fitness studio postpartum, and I swear it saved my mental health.

More: 7 things you won't learn about postpartum recovery in birthing class

Before I did, I tried working out solo. I ran. I did yoga at home. I started incorporating HIIT workouts into my routine. All of these things were a part of my life each week, but always done secluded, on my own, in the comfort of my own living room or hitting the pavement in my neighborhood with my earbuds tightly in place. I was laser-focused on my fitness goal during the time I devoted and nothing else mattered.

I also work from home, so it started to feel like I was doing everything by myself all at once. One day, when my daughter was about 6 months old, it started to hit me that I was starting to really feel alone too. I wasn’t getting out as much and found myself actually turning down opportunities to meet friends for a drink or pop into an event. My body was craving some social interaction, but something was holding me back. I was feeling the weight of my emotions, and even though I knew in my gut what I needed, leaving the house was feeling like so much work.

More: The best postpartum workouts for each type of childbirth

I have a history of depression and took antidepressants during my first pregnancy eight years ago because I was worried I would develop postpartum depression. I wanted to be proactive instead of reactive. The meds made me feel more anxious than anything, so I got off them as quickly as possible. When I gave birth to my second daughter last year, I made a promise with myself that if I started feeling down I would make sure I talked to someone.

I could kind of feel things shifting in that direction when a friend of mine asked me to take a barre class with her. I had absolutely no reason to turn her down. My husband happened to be off on this Tuesday morning — it seemed like it was meant to be. So I stepped outside this box that I was building around myself, switched up my fitness routine and went to work out with an encouraging group of women. Halfway through the class, I was hooked.

I loved the way I had other (grown-up) bodies next to me, which meant I didn't feel alone when I was struggling to hold a position. It encouraged me to know that everyone struggles sometimes. I loved the way the teacher would come around and correct my positioning to make sure my alignment was always correct. And more than anything, I loved the way this class worked my body in such a different way than what I was doing at home. As soon as class was over, I bought a membership.

My friend and I made a pact to meet every Tuesday for that same class, but I quickly found myself wanting more. I was popping into the studio multiple times per week and I felt amazing. I realized while riding home on the subway from class one evening that I was killing multiple birds with one stone. I was getting a great workout, but also getting out of the house and having some time to myself.

More: 10 postpartum tips that will save your sanity

From joining the fitness studio, I gained self-confidence and reconnected with myself. I was able to feel like a person again, not just a mom. I had a place to go to a few times a week that belonged to me — and was a healthy, safe, happy place where I didn't have to give myself to everyone else. I could just focus on what was happening with me.

Sometimes you need a change of scenery to help reset your mental health, and joining a fitness studio did that for me at a time I needed it most.

Brielle Biermann Started Her Own Feud with Kenya Moore Before RHOA Even Comes Back

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Like mother like daughter. There’s some Real Housewives of Atlanta drama brewing, but it doesn’t involve quite who you think it would. Kim Zolciak-Biermann’s daughter, Brielle Biermann, is stirring the pot with none other than Kenya Moore.

More: So you watch RHOA - that doesn't mean you know Brielle Biermann

Late on Saturday, Brielle tweeted something out of the blue but something you kind of expected eventually:

Brielle to Kenya

Brielle to Kenya

Damn. The transparency is almost blinding. Though it’s not surprising that the family would get so heavily involved after last week’s confirmation that Kim’s mother would be rejoining the cast of RHOA for the new season. Kenya commented on the news in an interview with Power 105.1’s morning show, giving her own version of transparency. “Kim needs a check, so Kim will be back,” said Kenya.

More: Kim Zolciak's money troubles may mean good news for RHOA fans

Kim and Kenya have sparred in the past, on and off the show. But now it’s reached a level of personal attacks that come out of season, and even out of shooting. Production for the new season hasn’t even started and Kim and Kenya, and now Brielle, have a storm'a'brewing.

But of course, Kim added fire to the flame by responding to Kenya’s low-blow. In an Instagram post, Kim wrote, “Hmm this sh*t is funny!! 6 seasons in on Don’t Be Tardy…” (Kim’s own spinoff show with her 6-year hubby Kroy Biermann) “...multi million dollar skincare line in less than 6 months… Meanwhile you sell your hair care products out of the trunk of your car and paying Sally’s beauty supply to do appearances there AND you are spending what you do have on your third paid boyfriend… Sweetie don’t try and come for me so you can have a story line for next season.” The post has since been deleted.

More: RHOA fans are concerned for Porsha Williams after her latest health scare

But we can definitely see where Brielle gets her passion! While neither Kim nor Kenya have responded or reacted to Kenya’s tweet from Saturday, we can be sure that there will be some sweet, sweet drama on the new season of RHOA.

Those Michael Phelps vs. Shark Race Results Are In

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Remember when Michael Phelps retired and then got bored so he decided to race a shark? Well, those race results are in, and there’s a winner.

More: 7 Shark Week Programs You Actually Need to Watch

If you can even believe it, the boy/fish wonder, the Michael Phelps, lost to the great white shark. Bummer. The race took place on Sunday, the first day of Discovery Channel’s always-anticipated Shark Week. Phelps and the shark went head-to-head in the waters of Cape Town, South Africa.

Phelps vs Shark

Phelps vs Shark

More: Even When Michael Phelps Talks About Ryan Lochte's Stupidity, We Still Swoon

Just to clear up the handling of the race, Phelps and the shark did not actually swim side-by-side in the ocean, even though Discovery Channel really made it look like they were neck-and-neck. The 23-time gold-medal-winning Olympian swam next to a simulation of the shark in the same ocean water for 100 meters at a different time. I think that’s fair, since we don’t want Phelps to be attacked by a great white on live television. But Twitter wasn’t necessarily happy that it was just a simulation.

Phelps vs Shark reaction

Phelps vs Shark reaction

More: 16 Michael Phelps #PhelpsFace Memes Worthy of a Gold Medal

The shark finished a full 2 seconds ahead of Phelps, with the final times for the 100-meter dash coming in at 36.1 seconds and 38.1 seconds. This could have been predicted, however, since the average speed of a swimming great white shark is 25 mph, and Phelps’ overall fastest speed on record is 6 mph. The champion swimmer did have some help, however, wearing a sharkskin-like wetsuit and a monofin to make it even a little possible to win. Alas, not even close.

I do think congratulations are in order for Phelps, though. To be so good at swimming that you can say “I was asked to race a shark on live TV” is definitely cooler than anything most of us can ever claim.

The Most Exciting Things We Saw in the New Stranger Things Season 2 Trailer

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The newest and fullest trailer was just released for Stranger Things’ second season, and honestly? It looks so spooky and revealing and incredible that I don’t even know where to start. Let’s try though.

More: The 2017 Emmy nominations are in, & there are a few surprises

Coming out of Saturday’s Stranger Things panel at San Diego’s Comic Con, people have since been bugging about the exciting new storyline, characters, monsters, and music that the three-minute preview reveals. Almost the entire video is set to Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” specifically the creepy speech that Vincent Price famously did voiceover for. There are definitely more questions than answers, too, all of which are important, so I’ll just mention the three most exciting.

ST Season 2 Trailer

ST Season 2 Trailer

First, Will’s connection to the Upside Down. The last we saw from Will, he was puking up slug-like Upside Down gunk in his bathroom sink, and then it flashed back to the alternate dimension (if that’s what it really is…). So when the new trailer opens on the boys - Will, Mike, Dustin and Lucas - playing games at an arcade, and the world around Will shifts to the Upside Down and back again, we’re only left thinking one thing. What the hell is going on with Will?! Why can he see the terrifying new monster in the sky and no one else around him can? And if the Upside Down can call Will back, can Will call the Upside Down back? So many questions.

More: Finally there's proof that Stranger Things' Steve is actually Jean-Ralphio's dad

Second, Eleven’s return! You heard right. She’s back. But how? She killed the monster, and some theories have said that when the monster died, she died. But even when El said, “I’m the monster,” I’m not so sure she meant literally, especially now. In the preview, Eleven is definitely trapped in the Upside Down, but she finds the opening from when the portal opened at the school. She sticks her hand through that gooey, pulsing matter, and presumably escapes. But why is she coming back? What does she have left to do? Even more questions!

And finally, the love triangle that is Nance, Steve and Jonathan. The trailer shows what looks like a breakup scene between Steve and Nance, who ended last season a happy couple sitting around the Christmas tree. But with Jonathan’s new camera, is he still taking pictures of Nance? Or is Nance wishing she was fighting monsters with Jonathan again? And will Steve get involved again?

More: Stranger Things made Superbowl LI worth the watch

So here we are, asking so many questions and not being able to get answers until October 27 when this insane show returns. In the meantime, we can just watch the Stranger Things trailer over and over again until our brains explode!

The Game of Thrones Comparisons to Donald Trump Are Apt and Terrifying

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As if tonight's episode of Game of Thrones didn't have enough "Oh shit" moments, Twitter has continued the jaw-drop by making some pretty poignant comparisons between Cersei and Donald Trump.

More: This Is Emilia Clarke Riding a Dragon Pre-CGI on Game of Thrones

Remember how I said last weeks' episode of Game of Thrones was a slow burn? Episode 2 was decidedly not. The war is on, and it is going to be a roller coaster of a ride. I can't get over Arya reuniting with Nymeria. Sam continued the cringe-worthy moments with the grayscale peeling. Get it, Grey Worm and Missandei. Of course that battle scene with Euron, Yara and Theon had my heard pounding. And then there was Cersei...

More: Kit Harington's Fake GoT Audition Tape Is the Best GoT Pregame

I'm not really sure if the creators did the whole Donald Trump/Cersei thing on purpose, but damn is it hard to ignore once you read these tweets.

game of thrones donald trump tweet 1

game of thrones donald trump tweet 1

game of thrones donald trump tweet 2

game of thrones donald trump tweet 2

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thrones donald trump tweet 3

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thrones donald trump tweet 4

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thrones donald trump tweet 5

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thrones donald trump tweet 6

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thrones donald trump tweet 7

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thrones donald trump tweet 8

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thrones donald trump tweet 9

thrones donald trump tweet 10

thrones donald trump tweet 10

thrones donald trump tweet 11

thrones donald trump tweet 11

I doubt Trump actually watches Game of Thrones because, well, I just can't picture it in my head to be honest. But I kinda of hope he does, because he might learn a thing or two about leadership. I might not like the guy, but he is our commander in chief so it would be really, really nice if he had the peoples' best interests at heart. Take some cues from Jon Snow, dude. And take less cues from Cersei.

More: Game of Thrones' Season 7 Trailer May Have Just Confirmed Daenerys' Plotline

Yup, less cues from Cersei is good.


Should You Add Olive Oil to Your Dog's Diet?

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We hear a lot in the news about what fats are healthy for humans to consume. But what about dogs? Is there benefit to your canine companion in the addition of fats like olive oil? Read on to find out.

The skinny on fats: Omega-3 vs. omega-6

Get into a discussion with a nutritionist about dietary fats, and it won’t take long before your head is spinning with acronyms. EFAs, or essential fatty acids, come in both the omega-6 and the omega-3 varieties. The distinction has to do with how carbon atoms are chained to the fat molecules; specifically, whether there is a double-bonded carbon pair at either at the 3rd or the 6th position.

The term “essential,” at least for nutritional purposes, means that the body can’t make these fats, so they have to be consumed in the diet. Vegetable oils contain mostly omega-6 fatty acids and scant quantities of omega-3 fatty acids.

So is olive oil a good choice for ensuring skin health?

It might seem intuitive that consuming dietary fats like olive oil could help promote healthy skin and coat. But commercial dog foods are already high in omega-6 fats, which are mainly what vegetable oils have to offer, so adding additional omega-6 fats to your dog’s diet likely does little to improve skin health.

Studies definitely support the premise that the addition of omega-3 fats improves skin health, especially in allergic individuals. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids can reduce the inflammation associated with osteoarthritis when given at sufficient dosages. In most cases, fish oil is the best source of omega-3 fatty acids for dogs.

Olive oil for gallbladder health

A small study that was done in the early '90s suggested that feeding olive oil to dogs with issues that stem from slow emptying of the gallbladder (the repository for bile, which aids with fat digestion in the small intestine) might improve the strength of gallbladder contractions. Theoretically, this should aid with moving bile, which has a tendency to become thick and sludge-like, out of the gallbladder and into the small intestine, where it can do its job.

What about using olive oil topically?

Every now and then, I hear about the potential benefits of using olive oil topically for various skin problems. Does this do any good? The answer is probably not. When skin is crusty and dry, oil can certainly lubricate the area and temporarily reduce flaking; however, this is not a definitive treatment for anything.

The same message goes for ears. Olive oil does not treat any kind of ear problem and can be quite irritating if put into the canals of the ears. If your dog is shaking his head or scratching his ears repeatedly, it’s likely that he has an ear infection and he needs to see his veterinarian for definitive treatment.

Ask PetCoach widget

Ask PetCoach widget

Could olive oil be dangerous for my dog?

Because diets that contain added fat can exacerbate problems like pancreatitis (an inflammatory condition of the pancreas that causes severe gastrointestinal signs) it’s important to discuss your dog’s overall health with your veterinarian before adding dietary fats of any kind. If your dog is eating a balanced diet, it’s likely that he doesn’t need additional vegetable fats, and adding them may just increase calories without adding any real benefits.

These Foods Actually Improve Your Eyesight

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Wouldn’t life be a whole lot easier if you didn’t have to keep track of your glasses, remember to pack contact solution wherever you go or squint to read this very article? Hang onto your seats, glasses-wearers of America: We’ve got some good news. If you (or your wallet) aren’t ready for any major surgical changes, some simple lifestyle changes could be the TLC your eyes need.

Unfortunately, your diet cannot specifically improve your visual acuity or your score on those letter-reading eye exams. However, you can make dietary changes to prevent or reverse the development of other eye diseases, called visual impairments.

“A visual impairment is a decreased ability to see to the degree that causes problems not fixable by usual means, like glasses, contacts and LASIK,” said family and preventative medicine expert Dr. Mikhail "Mike" Varshavski. “Common issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, elevated cholesterol all contribute to early-onset vision impairment.”

More: 9 Surprising Things Your Eyes Say About Your Health

There are two more common visual impairments that you can work to prevent.

The first very well-known problem is cataracts. Mainly occurring to individuals over the age of 55, a cataract is a cloudiness in the typically clear lens of the eye. While typically age-related, other key factors to the development of this impairment are nutritional deficiencies.

The second visual impairment is macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 65. This occurs when the retina, the layer of the eye that detects light and works with the brain to create images, begins to deteriorate. According to optometry specialist and licensed acupuncturist Dr. Marc Grossman, there are two types of this deterioration: wet and dry. While dry macular degeneration occurs due to aging, he has made different findings for wet degeneration.

“Wet macular degeneration arises from the body's attempt to make up for lack of nutrients by building extra blood vessels beneath the retina, but the new blood vessels leak fluid, which causes permanent damage to the retinal cells,” Grossman told SheKnows. “Studies are showing that age-related macular degeneration is a nutritional- and lifestyle-responsive eye disease.

And while cataracts can be surgically removed, there is currently no cure for AMD, making these dietary changes crucial to your future eyesight.

More: Could Birth Control Make You Go Blind?

In terms of what you can (and should!) be adding to your diet, both Varshavski and Grossman had similar recommendations.

1. Omega-3 fatty acids

These essential fatty acids can help prevent AMD and even help drain fluid from your eyes that can lead to high eye pressure and glaucoma. You can get sufficient servings through:

  • Fish oil pills
  • Salmon or tuna
  • Dark green leafy vegetables
  • Flax seeds or flaxseed oil
  • Walnuts


2. Vitamin A

According to Grossman, “Vitamin A as an antioxidant plays an important role in immune function, helping the surface of the eye to be an effective barrier to bacteria and viruses. It may help or slow the progression of dry macular degeneration.” Try adding:

  • Carrots
  • Cantaloupe
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Kale or spinach
  • Dairy products

3. Vitamin C

“Vitamin C helps the body form connective tissue like collagen, which is found in the cornea of the eye,” Grossman told SheKnows.  “Studies are showing that vitamin C may help prevent the formation of cataracts and vision loss from macular degeneration.” Incorporate these easy additions into your daily meals:

  • Citrus fruits (e.g., oranges, grapefruits)
  • Red, yellow and orange bell peppers
  • Kale
  • Brussels Sprouts
  • Strawberries, raspberries or blueberries

4. Non-processed complex carbohydrates

Eating a high-glycemic diet results in blood sugar spikes that can cause eye damage and increase your chances of developing diabetes and AMD. Complex carbs break down more slowly, providing your body with more fiber, sustained energy and a more controlled rise in blood sugar.

  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Whole grain pasta, breads, and cereals
  • Kidney or Black beans
  • Lentils

More: Does Your Child Have Hidden Vision Problems?

Overall, maintaining a balanced diet will do wonders for your vision. “Recent evidence shows that a high-fat diet wreaks havoc on your vision as it forms harmful fatty deposits into the retina and occludes the tiny blood vessels leading to the eye,” Varshavski told SheKnows. “In general, if you want to take care of your vision, you need to take care of your health in its entirety.”

You heard it here, ladies. While you might not ever achieve that 20/20 vision, do your future self a favor today: Think low-fat, high-antioxidant.

6 Simple Indulgences That Make Your Morning Commute More Luxurious

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Long commutes can be such a pain. Too much time in a car (or bus or train or subway) will test your patience and sanity and make you question your faith in humanity on a daily basis. But there are ways to make them feel more luxurious and less like a headache you can't get rid of.

1. Choose your music wisely

Listening to classical music has been associated with reducing stress, promoting relaxation and lowering blood pressure. So it's not the worst idea to save your Katy Perry and Lady Gaga jams for less stressful moments and switch to classical tunes for your work commute. To boot, you'll be less likely to burn out on big hits (they are overplayed after all, right?)

2. Take it to the car wash — regularly

Though messy areas have been associated with higher creativity, they're also associated with more frustration. Keep your car clean and avoid accumulating garbage. If you feel like your surroundings are clutter-free, your mind is also likely to be clutter-free. It's the same reason we take hikes in nature to detach. It's why a bath with candles and dim lights is calming and why sitting on the beach and listening to the ocean is therapeutic — because our environments influence our moods.

3. Keep comfy shoes on hand

Ever seen public transit commuters in NYC wear flats or tennis shoes and carry their heels? Most people don't want to trek through city streets and subway stairs in heels. Take a page from their book and keep comfortable shoes in your car. If you have to be in your car for a while, might as well be in shoes that make you feel more relaxed. This will especially come in handy after work when you want nothing to do with your dress shoes for another hour on your way home.

4. Drive the back roads

Some people need to spice up their love life; you may need to spice up your commute. While it may actually add a little time to your trip, sacrificing 10 extra minutes to take the more scenic route can make your routine feel more like an adventure. Who wants to see the exact same thing every single day anyway? Take it a step further by finding a small local coffee shop or breakfast joint to stop at on your way. It can be your little secret.

5. Stretch & meditate

Before you hit the road, meditate for a few minutes. It can reduce your stress, but it can also allow you to pick a mantra for the drive and reset your mood. Similarly, stretch breaks will invigorate you before your long haul home, and it's a great way to get less stiff throughout the day. The more comfortable you are in general, the more comfortable your car ride.

6. Audiobooks

Maybe don't pick the book about the axe murderer, but audio books are a great way to pass the time and to check some books off your personal reading list. The sounds of certain narrators can also be calming, so if you need a break from NPR, this is a good alternative.

Tell us: What are your commuting secrets?

This post was sponsored by Buick.

The 8 Biggest Announcements & Releases From Comic-Con 2017

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One of the biggest weekends in pop culture, San Diego Comic-Con, has come to an end. As we reflect, it's clear there's a lot to rehash; seriously, a lot happened. In fact, it looks like there are eight major Comic-Con news items we need to discuss.

What's Comic-Con, you ask? Well, every year, thousands upon thousands of fans, actors, directors, writers, creators and so many others fill up the San Diego Convention Center. There, they discuss all of the biggest events and projects happening in some of the most beloved and fastest growing pop culture fandoms, including the Marvel Cinematic Universe, a plethora of Netflix shows and some hot HBO properties. It's often expected that trailers or extended clips will be shown during Comic-Con panel discussions or special talks. In addition, during any given panel or preview, lots of news about a TV show's upcoming season or a planned film will be dropped as well.

More: Arya's Badassery in the GoT Premiere Set the Internet on Fire

Here are some of the biggest news items that you, dear reader, will want to know about.

American Horror Story: Cult

AHS Season 7 Teaser

AHS Season 7 Teaser

The show remains shrouded in secrecy, but we got one step closer to uncovering the details of American Horror Story Season 7 with the title revealed and some new footage. The teaser revealed that this season will be called Cult, which definitely has some super-creepy implications if the cult in question involves those very thuggish and scary-looking clowns.

AHS S7 Trailer GIF
Image: Giphy

The trailer also features this ominous-as-hell voiceover, asking audiences, "Do you ever feel alone? Does it seem like no one really understands you? Do some things just make you sick? Are you afraid? We can set you free. We will make you strong. We want you." Yeah, that's totally normal and chill.

Westworld

Westworld Comic Con Trailer

Westworld Comic Con Trailer

First off, let's talk about this Comic-Con trailer for Westworld Season 2, because it's absolutely amazing. There's not much shown here — most likely because they've just begun production on the upcoming season — but this little treat for fans shows that Westworld is in an uproar.

We see Bernard looking a bit worse for wear and gazing upon a dead (robot?) tiger. We also see Dolores and Teddy riding on horseback and killing what looks like Delos employees from the fancy launch party at the end of Season 1. Oh, and we can't forget Maeve showing one Westworld employee all of the destruction inside Westworld HQ. The Man in Black is definitely back, and that blood-spattered face of his shows that he's just as much on the attack as his sentient robot friends. Basically, it would seem that Westworld Season 2 will focus on the uprising of the sentient robots, their clash with Delos (the company that owns Westworld) and various characters jockeying for power. It's going to be chaotic and absolutely amazing.

Westworld S2 Trailer GIF
Image: Giphy

Annoyingly, Westworld co-creator Jonathan Nolan was evasive in confirming whether Samurai World would actually happen in Westworld Season 2. For now, all we have is the trailer and a long wait for the premiere of Season 2 in 2018.

Game of Thrones

GoT Comic Con Trailer

GoT Comic Con Trailer

Game of Thrones Season 7 is already underway, but that doesn't mean there isn't plenty to tease about the upcoming episodes of the penultimate season. After a panel discussion with actors Gwendoline Christie (Brienne of Tarth), Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark), Alfie Allen (Theon Greyjoy), Liam Cunningham (Davos Seaworth), Nathalie Emmanuel (Missandei), Conleth Hill (Varys), John Bradley (Samwell Tarly), Issac Hempstead Wright (Bran Stark) and Kristian Nairn (Hodor), they showed off a trailer that focused more on the various factions forming for two of the biggest wars coming up in the show.

The trailer makes it clear that Jon Snow and Daenerys are going to be coming together sooner rather than later. Jon has the men and military know-how to defeat his and Daenerys' common enemy, Cersei Lannister — the Mother of Dragons will need Jon's help if she is to take back the Iron Throne. Additionally, Daenerys possesses dragon glass, one of the key weapons Jon Snow needs to defeat the White Walkers. A big reveal in the trailer was that Melisandre would be coming back into the mix, possibly to bring Jon and Daenerys together. Everything is coming together very quickly in Season 7; try and keep up.

GoT Trailer GIF
Image: Giphy

Interestingly, during the panel, Turner did allude to the fact that Sansa and Jon Snow would be clashing more and more in the upcoming season. Additionally, Christie said she remained open to the idea of Brienne and Tormund actually hooking up. Other than that, the panel was pretty short on details of the show's future.

Once Upon a Time

OUAT Comic Con Trailer

OUAT Comic Con Trailer

We've known for some time that OUAT would be hitting the reset button for its seventh season. The trailer that teases this reset is pretty heavy-handed in its reveal, showing us that familiar beats will be hit. For example, the adult Henry is introduced to the daughter he didn't think existed, in much the same way as he introduced himself to his mom, Emma Swan, in Season 1. Also, his daughter is super-aware of their family's fairy-tale roots and appears to be Henry's guide back into said magical world, just as Henry was to Emma. Some familiar faces pop up, including Mr. Gold and Regina, along with new ones like Dania Ramirez, who is set to play Cinderella. Oh, and what would OUAT be without a little Captain Hook?

OUAT S7 GIF
Image: Giphy

During the OUAT panel, the show's co-creator, Eddy Kitsis, emphasized that this next season is about paying homage to the first six seasons while ensuring that beloved characters got their happy endings and, finally, bringing in some new stories. Kitsis also told the crowd what the theme would be for this new season: "Never stop fighting for what you believe in, and never give up."

More: Evan Rachel Wood Just Let a New Westworld Season 2 Hint Slip

Stranger Things

Stranger Things Comic Con Trailer

Stranger Things Comic Con Trailer

Michael Jackson's iconic song "Thriller" serves as the musical foreshadowing for the first full-length Stranger Things Season 2 trailer, which premiered during Saturday's Comic-Con lineup. The trailer provides so many exciting things to ponder.

First off, it looks like Will Byers is safe and sound in Hawkins with his friends and family, but the Upside Down is still trying to lure him in. He keeps getting pulled into this other dimension, where he gets warnings about the creatures that yearn to break out. It looks like Nancy and Steve are on the outs, and Hopper is searching for something (Eleven, maybe?). He may even team up with Joyce Byers to figure out what is happening to Will.

Stranger Things S2 GIF
Image: Giphy

During the Stranger Things panel, series co-creator Matt Duffer told audiences that the characters are "just trying to sweep everything under a rug and pretend everything is fine and back to normal, and it’s not. People have been affected psychologically, and then there are some potentially supernatural after-effects." The '80s are alive and well thanks to Stranger Things, but trouble is definitely looming large in Season 2.

The Walking Dead

Walking Dead Comic Con Trailer

Walking Dead Comic Con Trailer

Wow, the next season of The Walking Dead looks intense AF. War is coming to this zombified world, and it looks like Rick and his comrades are going to war against the sadistic Negan yet again. There will be strategy deployed, along with a more vigilant attack plan, as both humans and zombies now pose a threat to Rick. Also, what the heck is going on with that flash-forward to old man Rick at the end of the trailer? Argh, so many questions have come up just from that scene alone!

Walking Dead S8 Trailer
Image: Giphy

During the Walking Dead panel discussion, the cast and crew paid tribute to the stuntman who recently died on set while filming a new episode. Additionally, TWD executive producer Robert Kirkman told audiences that the next season is a nail-biter with its pacing: "It's easy to see and safe to report that this season will be very action-packed and move at a very fast pace."

Justice League

Justice League Comic Con Trailer

Justice League Comic Con Trailer

Batman is teaming up with Wonder Woman, Aquaman, the Flash and Cyborg in order to defeat some serious, otherworldly evil in the latest Justice League trailer. Fans have been eagerly awaiting the release of this new footage and, boy, it did not disappoint.

Besides the comedic beats courtesy of Aquaman and the Flash, we also got to see more on Wonder Woman's home, Themyscira, and her mother, Hippolyta. We also got to see Aquaman fight (and surf atop) an unusual creature. It looks like Commissioner Gordon is having secret meetings with the Justice League and lighting the Bat-Signal. Wonder Woman looks content leading her double life as superhero and Louvre employee. Additionally, Batman may be shouldering the responsibilities of being the leader of this unlikely team of superheroes. Oh, and who is Alfred talking to at the end of the trailer? Your guess is as good as mine, although the internet already has some big ideas.

Justice League Comic Con Trailer
Image: Giphy

During the Justice League Comic-Con panel, Ben Affleck took a moment to officially squash any rumors that he wouldn't play Batman in future films or that Warner Bros. wanted him out. It's definitely not true, and yes, we will see more of him in the future. Also, actors Gal Gadot and Jason Momoa toyed with the audience a bit, both seeming to imply and reject the theory that Superman would be returning in this film. Well, which is it, guys? Tell us already!

Thor: Ragnarok

Thor Ragnarok Comic Con Trailer

Thor Ragnarok Comic Con Trailer

The latest Comic-Con trailer for Thor: Ragnarok, the last of Thor's solo films, looks like an absolute blast. Moving away from the more strait-laced adaptations of the comics storylines, this Ragnarok trailer teases some big things for Thor. This includes the destruction of Asgard, the intergalactic team of him and the Hulk, the resurfacing of Loki and some new, exciting characters, like the villain Hela — all done with plenty of technicolor bombast and gorgeous realization from director Taika Waititi. Oh, and did you see Thor just channeling lightning through his body like a straight-up boss? Yeah, this movie is going to kick ass.

Thor Ragnarok GIF
Image: Giphy

During an interview with MTV News, Waititi revealed that a large portion of the film was improvised, which must be why there's much more levity and off-the-cuff antics being shown in the trailer. This film will also help to set up Avengers: Infinity War, so be on the lookout for the clues connecting these films.

More: The Internet Rejoiced at Emmy Nomination for Barb From Stranger Things

As exciting as these new pieces of news and footage are, most of these films and TV shows are months away from premiering. Luckily, this new footage will be able to tide us over until those premieres actually happen. And thank goodness, too, because these projects all look so amazing and are very much must-see entertainment.

Prince William Makes Sure He Talks About 'Granny Diana' With His Kids

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As the late-August anniversary of Princess Diana's tragic passing approaches, it's now time for her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, to speak out. In a new television special, Diana, Our Mother: Her Life and Legacy, both princes recall memories with their mother, reveal previously unseen family photos and share their silly anecdotes. During one segment of the special, Prince Williams elaborates on "Granny Diana," which is how he refers to his mother when he is with his own children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte. It would appear by his account that he is keeping the memory of his mother alive to this day by making sure his children know they have two grandmothers and that they know who Diana was when she was alive.

More: Prince George & Princess Charlotte Steal the Show on Royal Trip to Poland

In one clip, which was shared on the Kensington Palace Twitter account, Prince William says, "We've got more photos up round the house now of her and we talk about her a bit and stuff. It's hard, because obviously Catherine didn't know her, so she cannot really provide that, that level of detail. So, I do regularly when putting George or Charlotte to bed, talk about her and just try and remind them that there are two grandmothers — there were two grandmothers — in their lives. So, it's important that they know who she was and that she existed."

Prince William Diana Docu Tweet

Prince William Diana Docu Tweet

More: Princes William & Harry Plan Private Ceremony to Honor Princess Diana's Memory

It's quite touching knowing that Prince William has made it a point not to shutter away memories of his mother and that he would want to share them with his children. Can you even imagine how sweet those moments must be when the royal children are getting tucked into bed and they get to hear all of these delightful stories about Princess Diana? It certainly sounds like it's another way for Prince William to remain connected with his mother too.

Prince William Diana Docu Tweet 2

Prince William Diana Docu Tweet 2

Of course, Prince William also revealed in jest that he thought Princess Diana — who would be 56 years old this year were she still alive — would be a "nightmare grandmother," partially because she was so lightheartedly mischievous in her life. "She'd be a nightmare grandmother — absolute nightmare. She'd love the children to bits, but she'd be an absolute nightmare. She'd come and go and she'd come in probably at bath time, cause an amazing amount of scene, bubbles everywhere, bathwater all over the place and then leave."

More: Did Diana & Prince Charles' Marriage Implode Because of Baby Harry?

It definitely sounds like the People's Princess was just as much fun, just as caring and just as kind as we'd like to remember her.

Maria Menounos Said She Wishes God Gave Her Cancer Instead of Her Mother

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It’s no secret that Maria Menounos is close with her mother, Litsa, and took stage-IV brain cancer personally. In fact, Menounos went so far as to try to bargain with God, she told Megyn Kelly in an interview with her last night.

More: Maria Menounos Is Stepping Down at E News As She Battles a Brain Tumor

"I just remember praying and just saying, 'God, I wish you gave this to me because I have the fight and I have the will to beat this stuff. She doesn't.' And, uh, be careful what you wish for," Menounos said in an interview on Sunday Night With Megyn Kelly, which aired on Sunday, July 23.

Menounos' mother went on to have surgery to treat her cancer, and Menounos started to experience a lot of the same symptoms her mother had around her diagnosis, including headaches, dizziness and having difficulty reading teleprompters.

More: 10 Celebrity Cancer Survivors

After a trip to her doctor, Menounos found out that she had a brain tumor called meningioma, but didn’t tell her mother about her diagnosis until three days before her own surgery.

Now, Menounos knows her brain tumor is not cancerous and has been steadily recovering since her surgery. Moving forward, she is focusing on her mother’s recovery.

More: How I Went from Nothing to Cancer

"I just hope that we can make her one of the long-term survivors because I'm worried about her," Menounos told Kelly. "Nobody ever wants to lose their mom. I pray this next MRI is good so that we can all just take a breath, and I have some time to not worry."

Serena Williams & Alexis Ohanian Swaddle Like Champions at Baby Class

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You have to hand it to Serena Williams (or serve it or lob it or whatever). She may not have meant to tell the world about her pregnancy, but she sure is delighting her fans (including us) with her now-frequent updates on social media — including a recent bump picture on Instagram singing the praises of her Tempurpedic mattress for pregnancy pains.

Serena bump

Serena bump

This weekend? Williams and her fiancé, Alexis Ohanian, practiced swaddling baby dolls at a class for new parents — and Williams Snapchatted the adorable results.

More: Serena Williams writes sweet love note to her baby on the way

“Good swaddling, Serena! Yes,” Williams congratulates herself in one Snap video before turning to her soon-to-be husband and chiding, "Look at this student. Oh, what happened?”

More: Mom's yoga fart tale is the funniest story ever

(Let's just say Williams' partner in parenting may need some extra classes to get swaddling down... his poor toy doll didn't fare as well as hers.)

Serena and Alexis

Serena and Alexis

Ohanian didn't seem surprised by his future wife's swaddling prowess. In an interview earlier this month with CNBC's Squawk Box, he said of Williams, "She's awesome at a lot of things, and she's well on her way to being an awesome mom." Yeah. We get that feeling too, Alexis.

More: A fitness studio saved my postpartum mental health

Ohanian also said he'll be taking time off to be with the baby (and we're sure he'll get the swaddling down before then). "I'll be taking off for six weeks myself," he said, "and trying to do the best job possible as a first-time dad."

Actually, we have a pretty good feeling that both of them will get the hang of this new-parent thing really fast. (Our advice? Think of burritos, Alexis, when swaddling. Gotta keep all that filling in.)


Hormonal Imbalance Is Hard to Catch If You Miss These Symptoms

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We normally associate the term "hormonal issues" with teenagers or women nearing menopause — but the truth is you can be affected by hormones at any age, and as many as 80 percent of women may suffer from a hormone imbalance at some point in their lives.

There are so many factors that can effect the way that hormones function — diet, exercise habits, age, and whether or not you are pregnant can all fluctuate our hormonal systems. A lot of the time we brush of the importance of our hormones — but the truth is, we really need them to regulate many of the systems in your body. When something is off with our hormones, it can make us feel pretty crappy and actually lead to long-term health problems.

So if hormones are so important and affect women of all ages, how come we don't hear about them that often? That's a good question, but getting to know your own body and the way you feel is an excellent way to figure out when you need to see a doctor about hormonal fluctuations.

Causes of hormonal imbalance

"Hormone problems are quite common," advises Dr. Brad Douglas, OB-GYN and expert on JustAnswer. While age is the cause of some of these challenges (think: menopause), your menstrual cycle, thyroid issues and diabetes can also be the issue. Even more commonly, medication such as birth control pills can also throw off your body's chemistry. In addition, pregnancy frequently causes a shift in your hormonal balance.

More: I'm Freezing My Eggs Now Because I'm Afraid to Disappoint My Partner Later

Although some women are genetically predisposed to hormonal imbalance, when it comes to body chemistry changes that you can manage, your lifestyle can also be the culprit. Inconsistent sleep patterns, lack of exercise and a poor diet (which can include too much calorie intake) can all throw your hormones out of whack. Stress can be responsible for disturbing the levels of your hormones as well.

Hormonal imbalance symptoms in women

So how do you know when your hormones have gone awry? "Hormonal imbalances in women usually present themselves as irregular or heavy bleeding vaginally," explains Douglas. Extreme changes in mood during certain times of every month is another sign of uneven levels of hormones, which can include premenstrual syndrome or even premenstrual dysphoric disorder according to Douglas.

More: 5 Heart Attack Symptoms in Women That Should Be Talked About More

Furthermore, anxiety, loss of appetite, insomnia and lack of concentration may also be symptoms in women who may have a hormonal imbalance — along with symptoms such as sudden weight gain, a reduced sex drive, hot flashes and night sweats. Be sure to talk to your doctor if you have any of these signs.

Treatments for hormonal imbalance

Depending on the severity of hormonal imbalance symptoms, women who can tolerate the discomforts can live their day-to-day lives without medication or treatment. However, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes to remedy or reduce the signs of hormonal imbalance or even prescribe medication to bring your hormones back into equilibrium. Here are some options your doctor may want you to consider.

Lifestyle changes: Sometimes changes in your lifestyle can help minimize your risk of hormonal imbalance. A sensible diet, regular exercise and a regular sleep schedule are easy ways to keep your body's chemistry even.

Medication: Synthetic hormones are commonly prescribed to treat hormonal imbalance. "Depending on [their lifestyle], I usually prescribe birth control such as pills, the NuvaRing or the Ortho Evra patch," says Douglas. "But I might also recommend an [antidepressant]." Some antidepressants, such as Celexa, Pristiq or Effexor can help minimize signs of hormonal imbalance, while other medication, such as Prempro, are commonly prescribed for menopausal symptoms in women. Most commonly, synthetic progesterone and estrogen are prescribed to balance out hormones.

In cases in which the causes of hormonal imbalance symptoms in women are hard to pinpoint, genetic testing through urine, saliva or blood may be warranted. Once your doctor has reviewed your diagnosis, a treatment plan that may combine medication, synthetic hormones and lifestyle changes may be tailored to fit your needs. Most importantly, causes of hormonal imbalance in women can be best diagnosed if you talk to your doctor as soon as you think you see signs, getting you on the road to a more balanced body chemistry sooner.

Originally published May 2011. Updated July 2017.

How to Make Perfect Pancakes Every Single Time

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Is there anything better than a huge stack of light, fluffy pancakes smothered in butter and maple syrup? Um, no. The problem is, Grandma made whipping up a batch of flapjacks appear effortless, and we've learned the hard way that producing non-gummy pancakes isn't as easy as it looks.

It may be hard, but it can be done. Just follow these six simple steps, and your friends are going to be begging you to host brunch every weekend.

Step 1: Measure carefully

Odds are, a dense pancake is caused by the dry-to-wet ratio being off. With too much flour, your pancake will never stand a chance! Sifting your flour first will help keep it from becoming too packed in the measuring cup. If that doesn't work, try replacing half a cup of all-purpose flour with half a cup of cake flour. The two differ in protein content, and the lighter cake flour can make a huge difference.

More: 16 English Muffin Breakfasts That Are Super Delicious

Step 2: Whip it — whip it good!

Your recipe calls for eggs, but did it ask you to beat the egg whites? If it didn't, it's a missed opportunity. Your pancakes could be light and fluffy with this one fix alone. Adjust your recipe. Mix the egg yolks in with the other wet ingredients, but beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form. Just before cooking, fold the egg whites into your batter. If you do this too far ahead of cooking, the egg whites will settle and lose their airiness.

Step 3: Cooking

Now that you have the perfect batter, it's time to cook up a perfect pancake. Be sure the griddle or pan is heated to 375 degrees F. A drop of water should skitter across the pan. Rub your pan with clarified butter or vegetable oil (regular butter will burn!) and pour 1/4 cup of your batter in. Be patient and let the pancake set until the edges are dry and bubbles are forming on the top of the pancake. Now you are ready to flip.

Step 4: Avoid the pressure to press

Pancakes do not need to be pan-seared. You put all that work into a fluffy pancake, but many people undo that work with one step. Pressing down on top of the flipped pancake will not make it cook any more quickly and will remove all the air from the inside. The pancake will cook perfectly well without being pressed. In just 1-2 minutes, the pancake will be perfect and ready to eat.

6 steps to perfect pancakes
Image: SheKnows

Step 5: Serve

Pancakes are perfect when they're fresh. They should be served as they come off the pan. If you have a griddle, this is easier, as you can cook 6 at a time. If you absolutely must, keep the pancakes warm in a 200 degree F oven, but if you can, serve them as soon as they are ready.

More: Oreo & Dunkin' Donuts Teamed Up to Create the Breakfast Cookie of Your Dreams

Step 6: Use real maple syrup

Your family deserves the exceptional taste of real maple syrup. Its taste has no equal, and your pancake won't be perfect without it.

Originally published January 2014. Updated July 2017.

Texas School District to Implement ‘Paddling’ Punishment

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How would you feel if your child's school voted to approve physical punishment with a wooden paddle?

That's just what happened in Three Rivers, Texas, where the district school board voted yes — unanimously — on administering corporal punishment when students misbehave.

If you're blinking in disbelief and wondering what century this is, well, we are too.

CBS News reported that school district trustees voted 6 – 0 (!!!) that a principal or "behavior coordinator" may spank or strike a misbehaving child with a wooden object.

More: Parents punish kids by making them watch TV

"Paddle" is a very friendly-sounding word reminiscent of water sports, but make no mistake. A wooden paddle is anything but a friendly choice of discipline.

The district represents only two schools in a region approximately halfway between Corpus Christi and San Antonio.

Students in this district will only receive a paddling as a disciplinary measure if their parents have provided verbal and written consent for the paddling to be carried out. Parents can decide whether to "opt in or out" of the paddling package when they register their children for the upcoming school year.

More: The weird and wonderful mind of a 4-year-old finally makes sense

No, really. We swear. This is not a joke. Sign up for school lunches, paddling or both.

Superintendent Mary Springs reassured everyone (and by "everyone," we mean "no one"), saying, “If the parent is not comfortable with it, that’s the end of the discussion.”

We feel like this decision has the potential to go seriously awry in this district of more than 700 students.

But Texas is not alone in OK'ing corporal punishment at school; 14 other states permit it as well, and eight other states have zero laws or regulations opposing it according to the National Center on Safe Supportive Learning Environments (part of the U.S. Department of Education).

Last November, John B. King Jr. (the education secretary) urged state leaders to stop the use of physical punishment in schools, citing many negative short- and long-term effects from the practice. But the Three Rivers Elementary School's "campus behavior coordinator" (why does that sound so ominous?), Andrew Amaro, said he has great hopes that the paddling will improve discipline. In elementary school children. Let that sink in.
You know why Amaro wants to see paddling at the school? Because he got paddled as a kid.

“I believe it worked,” Amaro said. “It was an immediate response for me. I knew that if I got in trouble with a teacher and I was disrespectful, whatever the infraction was, I knew I was going to get a swat by the principal.”

WTF. We're pretty sure tarring and feathering helped rein in bad behavior too back in Colonial America. But for the love of God, this is 2017.

So what can a kid earn a paddling for? Being "disobedient," Amaro explained.

Well, that clears that up.

The worst part? School districts in Texas are in no way required to report paddling incidents to the state education agency according to that agency's spokesperson DeEtta Culbertson.

But Springs, the superintendent of Three Rivers, insists there will be tracking.

"We will look at how many discipline referrals were made compared to last year and how many times [corporal punishment] was administered," Springs said. "If it reduces the number of discipline referrals, then that is a good thing."

Or is it?

How to Write a Maid of Honor Speech That Doesn't Suck

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Maybe you found out that your best friend got engaged when she FaceTimed you from Paris or perhaps weeks before when the groom needed your expert advice on the ring. Either way, the day has finally come, and to top it all off, she’s named you her maid of honor.

Not only is this a great honor (hence the name), but being MOH also comes with a lot of responsibility. It’s easy to get bogged down in not-so-trivial details like planning a bridal shower and/or the inevitable destination bachelorette party with a dozen of the bride’s closest friends. Then before you know it, you look up two weeks before her big day and remember, "Oh right. I have to give a speech too."

Don't freak out! Below, you'll find a foolproof recipe, perfected from years of event-production experience, advice from seasoned friends and firsthand bridesmaid experience. Every speech that has followed this format has been followed by endless compliments throughout the reception — in other words, a total crowd-pleaser. Use these tips and you're basically guaranteed to deliver a winner.

Timing is everything

Throughout your speech, it’s important to keep pacing in mind. Even with the best speeches, audiences will only be able to pay attention for about five minutes — but it's best to keep your speech to around two to three minutes. Time yourself and practice. There are handy apps out there that can make this way easier. Keeping things short won't just hold the guests' attention; it'll also help keep your talking points focused.

Keep it classy

Though this may seem obvious, it’s important to avoid content or behavior that reflects poorly on the bride. Though best man’s speeches often include a bit of roasting, avoid going this route for speeches about the bride unless you're absolutely sure she's the type who would appreciate it. This includes keeping away from the following topics: benders you went on together, previous hook-ups and any stories you wouldn't want her boss and/or grandmother to hear. Additionally, keep pre-speech drinking to a minimum, i.e., a glass or two of wine for bravery (not six shots, which will guarantee a slurry speech).

More: 6 Real Wedding Meet-Cutes to Put You in the Mood for Love

Keep it together

This is your best friend’s wedding, so it's normal that your emotions and love for her are all over the place that day. Crying is an occupational hazard of being an MOH (and wedding attendee in general). Even though it’s beautiful that your love and friendship could bring you to tears, do your best to keep it together. A tasteful tear is totally acceptable, a crack in the voice might perhaps be unavoidable, but a full-on sob-ridden meltdown is both difficult to recover from vocally and very awkward for most people to witness. The audience has already been processing the bride's and groom’s emotions and vulnerability throughout the day, so it's best not to throw any more into the mix.

A how-to formula for speech success

First: Introduce yourself & your friendship

Ladies, this can't be stressed enough: Please introduce yourself! Even if you are the MOH of a 30-guest wedding and there's a blurb about you on the wedding website, I can pretty much guarantee that a large number of people won’t know who you are or how you know the bride. A quick sentence or two with your name and relationship to the bride (years known, how you met) will help give your speech context.

Next: Highlight a character trait or aspect of the bride’s personality that you love

This is your best friend, so odds are, you’re going to know and love her better than most people in the room. As such, picking what you love most should be easy. Questions to inspire you: What's something she’s always shown you? What's something she’s taught you? What about her has changed you for the better? Illustrate this trait in a story if you can — if she's particularly strong, what story best captures her strength? If she taught you how to be more compassionate, when did she do this especially well?

Then: Link this trait to the bride/groom’s relationship

Now that you’ve set the stage for how [insert characteristic here] your fantastic bestie and bride du jour is, it’s time to loop in/back to her new spouse (after all, this is a day celebrating them both)! An easy way to link to him/her would be to speak to how the they bring whatever characteristic you’ve highlighted out even more in the bride. Maybe the bride is passionate about giving back to her community and her partner helped her organize a Kickstarter for a foundation they both love. Or maybe it was their shared passion for giving back that led to them meeting during a day volunteering with Habitat for Humanity. The link-back options are endlessly flexible, and the connection you draw shows that this thing you love about her runs through their love too.

More: 9 Real Women's Worst Wedding Horror Stories

Finally: Wrap up with a conclusion & toast

Now it’s time to raise a glass (literally and physically) to toast the new couple and conclude your speech. A helpful tactic here is to turn to speak directly to the bride's partner and let them know how the characteristic and/or trait in your bestie will contribute to their love throughout their lives together. Is your friend particularly brave? Let her spouse know that whatever life will throw their way, she'll always be there with them to face it. Is she an excellent problem-solver? Let them know she’ll be there with a solution to every curveball life throws. It’s OK to turn up the cheese-factor on this final statement — everyone will be feeling a little mushy by now. Then turn back to the room and have everyone join you in toasting to the new couple’s happiness.

Cheers, woman. You did it.

Hilary Duff's Home Was Burglarized Over the Weekend

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Remember that amazingly cheesy Lifetime original movie about the Bling Ring, a group of teenagers who broke into celebrities' houses and stole their clothes and jewelry? In real life, celebs like Lindsay Lohan and Audrina Patridge, among others, were the victims, and the story of how those robberies happened at the hands of a group of teens became the fodder for not only that Lifetime movie, but also a movie by Sofia Coppola.

More: You Need to See Hilary Duff Recreating Her Awkward Disney Promo

Well, listen up Lifetime, because the sequel to The Bling Ring is writing itself right now. Tons of celebs have fallen victim to home burglaries in recent months, and just because of how many there are, we can't help but wonder if at least some of them are connected.

The latest victim is Hilary Duff, whose home was burglarized while she was on vacation with her son, Luca, in Canada, where he ex-husband Mike Comrie is from.

More: Hillary Duff's Ex-Husband Mike Comrie Is Being Investigated for Alleged Rape

Reports say hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of jewelry was stolen from Duff's Los Angeles home, but that the security alarm installed in the house never went off. Police confirmed to TMZ only that a house in Duff's neighborhood had been burglarized. They wouldn't confirm that it had been hers or give any other information. In fact, it was Duff's rep who confirmed the scary situation to the press.

"This is a scary and upsetting situation for anyone to go through, but Hilary is thankful that her family, her staff, her home and her pets are all safe," Duff's rep told Entertainment Tonight over the weekend. "That said, she has a significant security team in place that will work with the authorities on this incident and handle security measures moving forward."

More: Hilary Duff on Co-parenting After Divorce: "It Sucks"

It's definitely scary that so many celebrities are being targeted by burglars. Hopefully, police will catch up to the Bling Ring 2.0 soon.

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