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The Questions You Need to Ask at Your Child’s Annual Checkup

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For a lot of parents, their back-to-school routines include school supply shopping, looking up recipes for healthy lunches and scheduling a pediatric checkup for their kids. As long as we get some face time with our children's doctor, we want to be prepared with knowledge going in so we utilize our time and ask the right questions.

We spoke with pediatricians about what parents should be asking while at the doctor’s office — and it's not limited to physical health.

Consent

Before we go any further, it's important to note your that your child's pediatrician should always ask for consent before examining your child's genitals, pediatrician and professional health advocate Dr. Nicole Rochester tells SheKnows, noting that this is standard practice.

"It's a good opportunity to teach your child about good touch and bad touch,” Rochester says, adding that this is how we teach young kids about "boundaries and the importance of speaking up when something is wrong.”

Similarly, Dr. Heather Hawthorne, a family practice physician at Doctor on Demand, tells SheKnows that she always "discusses sensitive exams with parents first, explaining genital exams provide important information about a child's physical development." 

Then, she explains to her patients that they are safe because their mom, dad or guardian are present and reminds them doctors should only be doing this if their guardian is with them and no one else should be asking them to examine their private parts.

Mental health

We need to start thinking about our children's mental health from a relatively young age. Rochester says we should be asking questions like, "What can I do to help my child cope with stress?" and "What online resources do you recommend for my child to learn about healthy physical and emotional habits?" Your pediatrician may have some advice for how to help your child's mental well-being and spot potential signs of distress.

More: How Hot Is Too Hot for Your Kids to Play Outside?

Learning & cognitive development

Dr. Katie Davis, a neuropsychologist and neuroscience researcher at John Hopkins University tells SheKnows that parents need to take an active role in their child's learning and cognitive development, which includes "asking their pediatrician about language, reading and literacy development prior to their kids' fifth birthday." 

According to Davis, early intervention is "the most effective way to minimize the impact of learning disorders." Of course, all children develop at their own pace, but parents should be proactively asking pediatricians if their children are developing according to a typical timeline and whether a psychoeducational/neuropsychological evaluation is needed if a delay with your child is suspected.

More: Should You Be Worried About Kissing Your Newborn?

Age-appropriate development

Because doctors follow age-specific guidelines for annual wellness checks, Hawthorne says parents should be asking pediatricians the following basic questions every year, as their answers will be age-specific:

  • Is my child's height and weight age-appropriate?
  • Is my child maturing and having age-appropriate mental development?
  • Are there things I should be doing to encourage brain development?
  • What should I be feeding my child at this age, and are there any specific foods, vitamins or supplements like probiotics I should be giving them?
  • How much physical activity should they be getting?
  • How much sleep do they need?
  • What things should I be doing to keep them safe? (Safety risks change as your child gets older. From car seats, bike helmets and securing household poisons to locking up firearms, teaching about drugs and alcohol and watching for cyberbullies and predators — there are different dangers to think about at every age.)
  • Is my child at risk for mental illness like depression or anxiety? What are the warning signs?
  • How can I tell if my child is being bullied?
  • Are my child’s behaviors normal? How do I discipline at this age?
  • How much TV/phone/computer time should they have?

Doctor's visits empower you & your children

Your child's annual visits are a great opportunity to teach your kids to engage in a "meaningful dialogue with their physician," says Rochester, who adds patients should be involved in the health and decision-making regardless of age. This happens when a "pediatrician encourages children to be active participants in their health care journey," she says.

For example, our pediatrician asks my kids questions about their eating habits, how much water they drink and if they feel they get enough sleep. 

Hawthorne says as a parent, it's very important to make the most of these appointments, as they let you know what is happening now and they provide a great opportunity to learn what to expect next. It's also a good time to ask the pediatrician about any concerns you might have about your child's health in order to ensure they're happy, healthy and ready for the school year. 


How to Start the School Year Off on the Wrong Foot

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Although it may feel like summer just started, the days are already getting shorter — and before you know it, the new school year will be here. Of course, no one wants their child to start of the year on the wrong foot, but there's a chance you're facilitating just that — without even meaning to. Here are common behaviors/allowances/slipups you'll want to avoid now in order to set your kids up for success all school year long.

More: How These Moms Survived Empty Nest Syndrome

Let kids sleep until noon all summer

One of the best parts of summer is being able to relax bedtime routines and forgo an alarm clock. But not getting enough sleep makes it difficult for kids to concentrate in school, especially at the beginning of the year when everything is new and students are receiving a lot of information at once. Eileen Kennedy-Moore, child psychologist and author of the book Growing Friendships: A Kids' Guide to Making and Keeping Friends, says, “No kid wants to hear, ‘Sleep now because you'll be tired later!’ But shifting bedtimes is essential, even if it is challenging. Focus on gradually moving wake-up times earlier so your child doesn't have jet lag on the first day of school.” 

Wait until the last minute to do summer homework

It’s understandable that many kids complain about having to do schoolwork during their off time. But that summer reading and five-page summary will be a lot less stressful if your child completes it in the beginning of August rather than the night before school starts. 

Bad-mouth the teacher

Kennedy-Moore cautions, “Don't say anything negative about the teacher, no matter what you've heard. That sets up bad expectations for how the year will go. Learning to deal with different kinds of bosses is an important life skill.” Keep an open mind and suggest your student do the same — you both may be pleasantly surprised. 

Arrive late to school

Being late to school is a big no-no. It is disrespectful to the teacher and other students. Elementary school teacher Jodi Solomon says, “Children should be on time so that they can begin their day with the rest of the class and not have to play catch-up so early in the day. It embarrasses them that they have to unpack when everyone else is engaged in their work already. Insist children get organized the night before so that mornings are less hectic."  

Be unprepared 

Most schools give a supply list before the start of school. While it may not be necessary to have every single item on the first day, showing up completely unprepared is a mistake. Solomon explains, “We typically go through all the supplies and organize them with the children the first days. If a student does not have any of their supplies, it is annoying to catch them up the following week. Plus they are just sitting at their desk doing nothing and feeling anxious." 

Turn in incomplete paperwork

Solomon says, “The first week is like photocopy heaven. The main office sends home important information, as do the classroom teachers. Parents need to empty the folders and go through each paper. Anything that needs a signature should be signed and returned as soon a possible.” Many schools now handle most of their paperwork online; parents need to be sure to read all emails from the school thoroughly so as not to miss anything. 

Approach the teacher at pickup or drop-off

Teachers do not want to have conversations when you are dropping off your child or at dismissal; they are focusing on getting the students into and out of school safely. Elementary school teacher Jennifer Fotii says, “Even for simple questions, it’s not the right place or time. Parents should call the teacher or, even better, send an email so that the teacher can give their concerns her undivided attention.” Fotii also cautions parents not to ask an overwhelming number of questions right away. She explains, “A lot of information comes home within the first few days of school, and almost everything else is answered on back-to-school night.”  

Ask personal questions at back-to-school night

Speaking of back-to-school night, most schools host these evenings to give parents a broad overview of the grade’s curriculum. It is a chance for parents to inquire about general classwork and expectations. It is not an opportunity to ask about specific questions pertaining to your individual child. If you have a question that does not pertain to the class as a whole, make an appointment with the teacher to talk about your student’s needs. 

Get overly anxious

New beginnings can be tough for everyone. Parents need to set an example for their kids. Kennedy-Moore says, “Don't emphasize how difficult this year will be or how worried you are about how your child will manage. If you're tense and worried about how the school year will go, your child will be too.” Focus on the positives — seeing old friends, making new ones, fun special events that happen in your child’s grade, etc. If you seem excited about the new school year, your child will be too. 

Make too many plans after school

Kennedy-Moore says, “The beginning of a new school year is a big deal for kids. There's a lot of uncertainty: Will my teacher be nice? Will I have a buddy in my new class? Will the work be too hard or too boring?” Better to have time to relax, get organized and eat a leisurely family meal those first few days than to immediately be running around with after-school activities. The same is true for parents. Kids may want to talk about the details of their day or need to run out for additional school supplies, so try to avoid making plans or scheduling mandatory work meetings until your child is settled into their new routine.  

More:  Fun & Fancy Lunch Box Hacks Kids Will Love

By avoiding these missteps, parents can help their kids to start the new school year positively. Both your children and your children’s teachers will appreciate your efforts to make it a great school year.  

DWTS: Juniors Is Bringing 2 Familiar Faces Back to the Show

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With a little over two months left until Dancing with the Stars: Juniors premieres on ABC on Oct. 7, big casting announcements are coming out in a flurry of excitement. Earlier this week, it was revealed that the three judges sitting on the panel for Juniors would be DWTS pro Val Chmerkovskiy, La La Land choreographer Mandy Moore and DWTS: Athletes winner Adam Rippon. Then, on Wednesday, we learned which familiar DWTS pros would be returning to the show as mentors for the contestants, and even better, we actually got a look at the young pros that would be paired with the older mentors.

More: DWTS: Juniors Revealed Its Newest Judging Panel

Earlier this week, a video popped up over on the DWTS: Juniors Facebook page that finally — finally! — announced the official lineup of mentors and pros that we'll be seeing a whole lot more of during the first-ever Juniors season. We'll get to those young pros in a minute, but what's really got us excited about the upcoming season is the familiar faces in the form of the mentors who are involved, including Sasha Farber, Jenna Johnson and best of all, Cheryl Burke. 

The video also confirms other mentors who you might recognize, including Alan Bersten, Artem Chigvintsev, Lindsay Arnold and Hayley Erbert. In addition, the Juniors pros have also been announced. They're all dancing mavericks in their own right, and it will undoubtedly be a ton of fun getting to see their skills on display on the Juniors season.

More: Celebrity Kids Who Should Be Cast on DWTS: Juniors

With the judge's panel, the Juniors hosts (former DWTS contestants Frankie Muniz and Jordan Fisher!) and the mentors and pros confirmed for the Juniors season, all we need to know now is who those actual young contestants will be. Until then, we can stay hyped about this Juniors casting news.

As a Suicide Survivor, Anthony Bourdain's Final Season of 'Parts Unknown' Means So Much to Me

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I have been an Anthony Bourdain fan for years. I followed him during his Travel Channel days, watching both The Layover and No Reservations hungrily. Almost fervently. I stayed with him through his Parts Unknown days — which, admittedly, ended too soon — and I've read several of his books, including The Nasty Bits and Kitchen Confidential. (As a writer, I admired his honesty, dry wit and seemingly God-given ability to tell a story.) So when news broke on June 8 that Bourdain had died, I was devastated. "What a terrible loss," I thought. But then the details surrounding his death emerged, and I was taken back once more because Bourdain died as I could have: by suicide.

You see, I am one in a million. 

I am a suicide survivor.

Of course, the circumstances surrounding my own life — and struggles — were certainly different from Bourdain's. The first time I tried to take my life, I was suffering from an undiagnosed (and untreated) mental illness, and the second time, I acted impulsively. 

I was in a manic phase from which no one could pull me back.

More: 13 Things Never to Say to Someone Who Is Suicidal or Depressed

But the differences between Bourdain and me end there because, while I do not know Bourdain, I do know what it feels like to be suicidal, and we are (well, were) both individuals who felt helpless, who felt hopeless and who believed there was no other way out. 

I didn't want to die; I just wanted to make the pain stop.

And while I "survived," I didn't do so because someone stopped me or because someone saved me, I survived because of fate. Because of luck, and because I woke up — vomiting but alive.

But now for some good news.

On Aug. 1, CNN confirmed that Bourdain's story isn't over. Parts Unknown will return for a 12th — and final — season. And while an official premiere date has yet to be announced, the season will follow Bourdain through Kenya, Manhattan's Lower East Side, an area of Texas close to the U.S.-Mexico border, the Asturias region of Spain and Indonesia before ending back where it began: with Bourdain.

The Parts Unknown cast and crew will spend the last two episodes of the series reflecting on the show and larger-than-life chef.

"Each [episode] will feel slightly different depending on what’s gathered in the field," Amy Entelis, the CNN executive who helped launch Parts Unknown, told the Los Angeles Times. "They will have the full presence of Tony because you’ll see him, you’ll hear him, you’ll watch him" but, with the exception of one episode, Kenya, "his narration will be missing... it will be replaced by other voices of people who are in the episodes." 

You may be wondering why this matters. It is a television program after all. Nothing more. Nothing less. But keeping Bourdain alive — even if it is only on his Emmy award-winning show — is imperative because he is (and should be) a man defined by his life, not his death.

Bourdain was a chef, author, storyteller, world traveler, producer, husband, father and friend.

More: Asia Argento's Latest Tribute to Anthony Bourdain Is Heartbreaking

Will the show be hard to watch? Yes. Painful even? Yes, probably. But silencing Bourdain and his life would be a disservice: to him, to me and to everyone who has ever struggled with addiction, alcoholism, suicide, and/or mental illness. Because we are more.

We deserve more.

By airing season 12 of Parts Unknown we — as a society — will be forced to "see" suicide. We will be forced to think about suicide, and we will be forced to talk about suicide, to have a very raw and real conversation about an epidemic which, according to the American Foundation of Suicide Prevention, kills nearly 45,000 Americans each year. 

For more information on the warning signs and prevention of suicide, click here. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255). If you live outside the U.S., click here for a list of international hotlines. 

Emmy Rossum Isn't Proud of Her Skinniest Moment

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Earlier this week, Kim Kardashian West revealed that she weighed just 119 pounds. While the television personality and socialite didn't seem bothered by the news — in fact, she and sisters Khloé Kardashian and Kendall Jenner celebrated her "skinny" — many worried what message Kardashian West was sending to her young fans. As such, stars like Emmy Rossum and Brooklyn Nine-Nine's Stephanie Beatriz are now coming forward to talk about the dangers of being too skinny, as they have learned from their own life experiences.

More: Emmy Rossum Shared Intimate Photos From Her Wedding Day

As reported by Us Weekly, Rossum seemed compelled to speak up about her own weight struggles as a response to Kardashian West's weight reveal (although she didn't call out Kardashian West directly. She wrote the following about her weight on her Instagram Story on Tuesday:

“The only time I was 119 pounds is when I had MONO. On a magazine shoot and everyone was ‘freaking out over how good’ I looked. I had lost ten pounds and was gaunt and sick and felt faint … It totally messed with my head … You never know what someone is going through. If you’re having a tough time with body image, I promise you’re beautiful and this feeling will pass. Today is just a moment. Practice some self-care and reboot. Take a bath. Take a walk. Take a yoga class. Make a healthy nutritious meal and watch your favorite funny movie. Tomorrow is another day.”

And Beatriz shared a similar message on her Instagram Story (which has since disappeared): 

“There’s only one time in my life when I ever weighed 119 pounds. It was right in the middle of a terrible relationship, and intense eating disorder, and I thought that I could be thinner and look even better. Everyone kept complimenting me on how I looked, and I felt desperate to stay at that weight. It sucked.”

More: 7 Times We Wanted to Be Best Friends With Emmy Rossum

Neither Rossum nor Beatriz has implied Kardashian West's weight is a cause for concern. However, it's good that both women are highlighting the nuances of this complex discussion, especially when it allows them to bring in their own viewpoints from personal experience. But it looks like Rossum wanted to make her position on this matter even clearer because, on Wednesday, she took to Twitter to clarify her earlier remarks. 

"To be clear, someone’s weight is between them and their health professionals. I have no opinion on this. My opinion is only on the danger of praising — even in jest — anorexia," which, according to Cosmopolitan, the Kardashian sisters apparently did.

Rossum is right: anorexia is not a joke. That said, what matters isn't the size of your waist or the number on the scale. What matters is that you are healthy: healthy and happy.

Kristen Bell Has a Genius Hack for Getting Kids to Talk About Their Day

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The start of another school year is quickly approaching, and with it comes a slew of challenges for parents, including back-to-school shopping, adjusting to a new schedule and squeezing in that last-minute annual checkup. And with the children at school for a significant chunk of the day, parents also have to figure out the best way to maintain open lines of communication with everyone in the family. It's stressful to think about, right? Thankfully, actor Kristen Bell has a simple communication hack that can make things run much smoother at home. 

More: Kristen Bell Used Quite the Tactic to Stop a Paparazzo From Snapping Her Kids

As a mother of two preschool-age children, Lincoln and Delta, Bell understands how hard it can be to get kids to open up about their day. But instead of accepting the brush-off from her kids, she's taken a much more hands-on approach. 

"Everything I ask my children to do in life, I explain to them why," Bell told PopSugar

Bell, who is married to actor and podcast host Dax Shepard, then provided a sample script of something she might say to her daughters. 

"Do you know why we ask you about your day? I ask you about your day, and I ask Daddy about his day because we've been separated for a few hours and I wonder how you're feeling ... if you experienced something today you want to talk about," she explained. "Also because I'm interested, and it gives us a chance to reconnect to each other. That's why people ask one another about their day. It also makes the other person that's being asked feel very good and valued. It's a nice way to show you love someone." 

Her approach seems to have made a huge difference at home. 

"My kids don't brush me off," she said. "They say, 'It was really good, how was your day?' They actually ask me how my day was."

More: Kristen Bell Wants More Family-Friendly Workplaces — Outside Hollywood Too

Bell also recognizes that she's fortunate enough to have a "family-friendly" career that allows her the time to have these important evening conversations with her kids.

"You can bring your children to work, or I could nurse the baby when I was working early on," she told E! News in March. "I hope to see more businesses — not just the acting world — allow that kind of stuff."  

We hope so too. In the meantime, you can catch us putting Bell's parenting hacks to good use just in time for back-to-school season. 

7 Absurdly Specific Kitchen Gadgets You Didn’t Know You Needed

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There are plenty of time-consuming jobs around the kitchen. Doesn’t it always feel like there should be a more efficient way to cook? Kitchen hacks only go so far, but these outside-the-box kitchen gadgets can help you do everything from coring your pineapples to stuffing jalapeños.

1. Silver stainless-steel pineapple de-corer

Silver Stainless Steel Pineapple De-Corer

With this sturdy pineapple corer, you’ll never need to buy canned pineapple again. This gadget allows you to slice your way through a fresh pineapple in seconds. Is this the perfect excuse for a tropical-themed pool party?

Silver stainless-steel pineapple de-corer, available at Amazon

2. Chef’n StemGem strawberry huller

Chef’n StemGem Strawberry Huller


This clever little huller is the simplest and fastest way to de-stem your strawberries (or other similar fruits). In just a push, twist and pull, your strawberries will be ready for filling with chocolate, slicing or even just eating whole.

Chef'n StemGem strawberry huller, available at Amazon 

3. Chef'n cob corn stripper

Chef’n Cob Corn Stripper


If you love the taste of fresh corn on the cob but can’t stand the persnickety eating process and corn-between-your-teeth feeling, you should invest in this kitchen gadget. The Chef’n cob corn stripper takes each kernel off the cob and provides you with a pile of freshly cut yellow goodness to eat with your barbecue or add to your salad.

Chef'n cob corn stripper, available at Amazon 

4. King Kooker jalapeño stuffer


King Kooker Jalapeno Stuffer


Spicy food lovers, this one is for you. The King Kooker jalapeño stuffer gives you an easy way to create your very own stuffed jalapeños en masse. This is the ideal tool for those who love to throw parties with hors d’oeuvres or want a fun appetizer to make when people are over to watch the game.

King Kooker jalapeño stuffer, available at Amazon 

5. Sleeké watermelon slicer & tong


Watermelon Slicer & Tong by Sleeké


Forget the mess and frustration of hacking away at a monstrous watermelon. This slicer provides a simple way to cut through a watermelon and produce the perfectly size slice time after time. And it’s simple to change the size of the slice you make by simply adjusting the blade.

Sleeké watermelon slicer & tong, available at Amazon 

6. The pomegranate deseeder & seed-removal tool



The Pomegranate Deseeder and Seed Removal Tool


Surely, one of the most labor-intensive jobs in the fruit-eating world is seeding a pomegranate. This time-consuming task can often feel greater than the reward, but with the HIC deseeder, you’ll be done in less than two minutes. The three-part set requires little more effort than hitting the plastic bowl to provide you with a bowl full delicious pomegranate seeds.

The pomegranate deseeder & seed-removal tool, available at Amazon 

7. Spiralizer 5-blade vegetable slicer



Once you’ve tried spiralized food, you’ll wonder how you ever went without it. Not only does it make vegetable meals more visually appealing for adults and kids (think zucchini pasta), the slicer is capable of spiralizing tougher veg like potatoes and turnips so you can enjoy your own homemade fries!

Spiralizer five-blade vegetable slicer, available at Amazon 

This story was originally published on Spy. This is e-commerce content. If you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale. 

The Best & Worst Hair-Removal Techniques

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The warm weather does wonders for our souls, but we could certainly do without the extra time it takes to shave, wax and laser off every exposed hair on our bodies. Before you reach for that razor, make sure your preferred hair-removal technique is also kind to your skin.

Because there's no point in removing unwanted hair if it's only going to expose skin that we're damaging in the process, it's high time we find out, once and for all, whether we should be shaving, waxing, getting electrolysis treatments — or none of the above.

We spoke with Dr. Diane De Fiori, consultant and research dermatologist with the Rosacea Treatment Clinic, and esthetician Felicia Alva of Flutter Beauty, and got the scoop on the best and worst ways we can remove hair on our legs, bodies and faces.

Here they are, ranked from worst to best.

More: The 20 Most Game-Changing Beauty Products of 2018 so Far

7. Shaving

The easiest, and one of the cheapest, methods we rely on is also one that can leave our skin bumpy, stubbly and even bloody. 

"Because the razor cuts the hair at an angle, it has a tendency to regrow inward (causing ingrown hairs), particularly if hair is curly," De Fiori said. "The result is bumpy and inflamed, infected skin which will not resolve until the ingrown hair is removed."

De Fiori adds that possible complications from shaving can include scarring, breaking fine capillaries when removing the hair and permanent dark marks (hyperpigmentation) after healing has completed. One possible benefit? "The razor itself does have a moderate exfoliating effect, removing dead surface skin cells as you shave, which leaves skin smoother."

6. Hair-removal creams

Products like Veet and other hair-removal creams are similar to permanent solutions, according to De Fiori, and can dissolve hair at the skin level. Because the hair remains in the follicle and is burned away evenly, there is less chance that ingrown hairs will develop. Sounds great, right? Hold that thought. 

"The main risk with these products is chemical burns because they are strongly alkaline," De Fiori said. "A burn is more likely if you leave the product on for longer than directed on the packaging. Some hair types are not removed effectively within the directed timeframe for use therefore patients will leave them on longer. By the time the hair is dissolved the skin is also burnt." 

Know your skin — if it's sensitive, it may be best to stay away from these creams. And, if you do use them, make sure you're removing them thoroughly or you risk developing a "slow burn." Ouch!

5. Electrolysis

De Fiori says electrolysis has pretty much been replaced by lasers, which are "faster and more efficacious." If you're still devoted to this method, be aware that risks include "scarring, infection and hyperpigmentation."

4. Threading

A lot of women are opting to have their eyebrows and/or the little annoying hairs on their faces removed using threading instead of waxing or shaving. De Fiori says this is the method least likely to damage skin, as it is gentler on skin than tweezing, but it has a major downside: It's only feasible for use on small areas of the skin. Unless, I guess, you're one of few women who love torture and can deal with the insane pain of getting your legs threaded (we won't judge you).

More: 5 Summer Skin Care Tips Black Women Should Keep in Mind

3. Waxing

Both De Fiori and Alva are in agreement about waxing, especially when it comes to the eyebrow area: It can cause major skin damage. 

"Waxing removes a top layer of skin every time you use it," Alva said, adding that the thin, delicate skin around the eyes has no oil glands and requires as gentle a method as possible. "It's OK on the body, but it's too rough on skin in the eye area." 

Alva recommends tweezing, which gives an esthetician more control over your brows and gives you a fuller, more natural brow.

De Fiori cautions women with rosacea and other inflammatory skin disorders, such as psoriasis and eczema, to avoid waxing altogether because, although it weakens hair growth, it causes hair growth to actually accelerate during the first three to six months, which increases the need to wax more and can lead to hyperpigmentation.

2. Eflornithine hydrochloride cream

Women who feel they have been plagued by little chin hairs or thick facial hair can now benefit from this effective, but costly, prescription product. After approximately two months of twice daily use, the cream slows down hair growth, according to De Fiori. 

"Some possible, more common side effects are temporary redness, stinging, rash or folliculitis (inflamed, bumpy hair follicles)," De Fiori said. "This is a rather expensive product, however it is FDA approved and reduces the need for other hair-removal methods."

1. Laser treatments

Ding, ding, ding — I think we have a winner! 

De Fiori says that, although older lasers can damage darker skin tones and weren't effective on very light hair, modern lasers can be used to treat an individual's skin and hair type. 

After a treatment, hair remains in the skin, but will fall out after four to eight days. And how is this for an incredible added bonus: Depending on the laser used, you may even experience some skin rejuvenation due to the formation of new collagen. A method that removes hair and can fight fine lines? Yes, please.

So, let's review

Modern lasers are De Fiori's preferred method, shaving beats out depilatory creams, waxing should only be used on skin types that do not have a history of reacting to it, and a killer, long-lasting combo worth trying on facial hair: threading and eflornithine hydrochloride cream.

Adios, unwanted hair!

Hair removal Pinterest imageA version of this article was originally published in August 2015.


23 Easy Indian Recipes to Broaden Your Indian Food Horizons

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Tandoori chicken, chicken tikka masala, butter chicken, samosas: Sure, we're all pros at ordering these absolutely delicious, mouthwatering dishes at any Indian food restaurant. But many of us wouldn't dare attempt making them at home. And why would you when you can leave it to the pros?

Little did you know, it's actually very possible to whip up Indian dishes at home. The key is to keep things simple — and start with any of these easy Indian recipes, perfect for at-home cooks curious about the cuisine.

More: 14 Filipino Dishes Everyone Should Know About

1. Homemade naan recipe

naan

Start your meal with this amazing homemade naan bread recipe, made with white whole wheat and yogurt.

2. Indian chickpea fries recipe

indian fries

Indian chickpea fries are the perfect Indian appetizer — even better when dipped in a fruity chutney sauce.

3. Vegetable samosas recipe

samosas

Try your hand at making these vegetable samosas, and your guests will love starting their meal with these pockets. Add shrimp or chicken if you'd like to add some protein to this appetizer.

4. Vegan aloo tikki recipe

aloo tikki

Not only are these vegan, but they're gluten-free as well, perfect for anyone wanting to enjoy the classic vegan aloo tikki.

5. Indian mango chutney recipe

mango chutney

Indian mango chutney is perfect to serve as a dipping sauce or to dollop on grilled chicken.

6. Spinach and onion pakora with green chutney recipe

pakora

Try these spinach and onion pakora with green chutney as a snack before a meal or even as a treat midday. They are wonderfully crispy and delicious.

7. Slow cooker chicken tikka masala recipe

tikka masala

Let the Crock-Pot do all the cooking in this recipe for slow cooker chicken tikka masala. Serve over rice, and enjoy an Indian meal at home without much effort.

8. Simple coconut chicken curry recipe

curry

Coconut milk adds a luscious texture to curries, like in this amazing recipe for simple coconut chicken curry served over steamed rice.

Next: Grilled tandoori chicken

A version of this article was originally published in April 2015.

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9. Grilled tandoori chicken recipe

Grilled tandoori chicken  

Spring is the best time to make grilled tandoori chicken outdoors. It's a delicious spiced dish.

10. Slow cooker butter chicken recipe

Slow cooker butter chicken recipe  

Oh, how we love our slow cookers, even during the spring and summer. This recipe for slow cooker butter chicken takes a traditional Indian recipe and re-creates it with modern appliances.

11. 2-Potato vindaloo recipe

2-Potato vindaloo recipe  

Need a vegetarian dish to bring to the table? This two-potato vindaloo is just the thing.

12. Red lentil dal recipe

Red lentil dal recipe  

We're loving this gorgeous, colorful, red lentil dal, perfect for cool spring nights.

More: 10 Korean Condiments You Should Be Using but Aren't

13. Indian mango lassi recipe

Indian mango lassi recipe  

Indian mango lassi — basically all we want to drink during the hot summer months. Take full advantage of mango season when they are the most flavorful.

14. Cardamom, rosewater and pistachio kulfi recipe

Cardamom, rosewater and pistachio kulfi recipe  

Cool off with classic Indian ingredients and flavors in this cardamom, rosewater and pistachio kulfi recipe.

15. Indian spiced stew with chicken and potatoes recipe

Indian spiced stew with chicken and potatoes recipe  

Similar to tikka masala and butter chicken, this Indian spiced stew with chicken and potatoes is perfect for cold weather and can be made days ahead of time.

16. Indian sticky chicken recipe

Easy Indian recipes  

Get the most out of your chicken's flavors with this Indian sticky chicken recipe. It's perfect for the family and easy to make.

Next: Masala-stuffed okra

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17. Masala-stuffed okra recipe

masala stuffed okra

Try this masala-stuffed okra recipe that can be made using spices and other flavors of your choice.

18. Khaman dhokla recipe

khaman dhokla

Khaman dhokla can be eaten for any meal during the day as a side dish or a snack.

19. Baingan bharta (smoky mashed eggplants) recipe

bainghan barta

You can serve this baingan bharta as a side, a dip or as an appetizer. Eat it your own way.

20. Bhelpuri recipe

bhel puri

Bhelpuri is one of the most popular snacks on the streets of Mumbai, and now you can make it from the comfort of your own home.

21. Spinach and cheese curry (palak paneer) recipe

palak paneer

This palak paneer dish is great as an appetizer for guests or as a snack during any time of the day.

22. Mango kulfi recipe

mango kulfi

Take a break from the spice, and cool down on a hot day with this mango kulfi.

23. Vegetable momos recipe

Easy Indian recipes

These vegetable momos are a popular food on the mainland of China but also a popular street food in Northern India. Be sure to try them with some hot sauce.

Pin it! Broaden Your Indian Food Horizons

Have Bladder Leakage? How to Know If It's Normal or Something More

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Urinary incontinence — or involuntary bladder leakage — is a distressing problem that can have a significant impact on the life on the many women it affects in America. According to the National Institutes of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, urinary incontinence affects 35 million women — affecting up to 37 percent of women ages 20 to 39, and up to 39 percent of women older than 60.

While bladder leakage can sometimes feel like the end of the world, the good news is urinary incontinence can be managed and treated. Read on to learn about common bladder leakage, its causes and treatment options.

More: 5 Natural Ways to Deal with Urinary Incontinence

Is it normal?

Though it's common, doctors say that urinary incontinence isn't normal.

"Leakage should never be considered ‘normal.’ Often, urinary incontinence has been considered to be part of the aging process, but it need not be," Gary E. Lemack, MD, professor of Urology and Neurology at University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center tells SheKnows. "Most forms of incontinence can be readily treated. Since there are various forms of incontinence, one size most certainly does not fit all when it comes to treatment, and therefore an evaluation by a health care provider with expertise in this field is recommended when the symptom becomes bothersome."

Urogynecologist Mary South, MD, of Northeast Ohio Urogynecology agrees: "Bladder leakage is never normal. Treatment is available, and a woman should seek consultation with her physician or ask for a referral to a urogynecologist," South tells us. "In very rare circumstances, urinary urgency and frequency can be a symptom of a more serious health condition, but this is the exception. This condition is very common and experienced by many women, particularly as they age. Consultation with a physician will most likely put a woman's mind at ease and help her determine what treatment options exist."

Types of incontinence

All incontinence issues are not the same.

"The two most common types of incontinence are urge incontinence, which is the more common of the two, and stress incontinence. They account for about 90 percent of all incontinence. Urge incontinence means you cannot get to the bathroom fast enough. Stress incontinence means leaking occurs when you laugh, cough, lift something, sneeze or exercise," Lisa N. Hawes, MD, urologist with Chesapeake Urology Associates in the Baltimore area, tells SheKnows. "There are other kinds of incontinence, but these are less common, including overflow incontinence, sphincteric deficiency, and leaking for other neurologic reasons, such as with multiple sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s Disease, which can impair bladder function."

More: What's Your ‘Peehavior’? It's Time We Discuss Bladder Health Openly

Causes of bladder leakage

The common causes of urinary incontinence are varied. Excessive urine production can be an issue due to uncontrolled diabetes or excessive fluid drinking. Too much caffeine can also stimulate the bladder.

"While it can be a sign of a more serious problem, this is the case only in rare circumstances. More often, it is due to either a primary bladder storage problem, which can be attributed to the bladder not holding enough urine (or developing bladder spasms), or the bladder outlet or urethra losing strength over time," says Lemack. "Very rarely, it may be due to other conditions such as stones or bladder tumors. When urge incontinence comes on suddenly and has not been previously experienced, it might be associated with a severe urinary tract infection."

As for causing incontinence, Philip Hoekstra, MD, Chief of Spectrum Health Medical Group, Division of Urology, and Associate Clinical Professor of Surgery at Michigan State University, says risk factors include obesity, pregnancy, vaginal delivery and high birth weight babies, as well as diabetes, neurological disease, and finally maturity with associated estrogen deficiency.

"The most common diagnosis for admission to a long-term care facility is urinary incontinence," he tells SheKnows. "Urinary incontinence can result in recurrent urinary tract infections, skin irritation and break down, social isolation and depression."

More: I Have a Common Bladder Condition & It's Taking over My Life

Incontinence treatments

If you are suffering from more than rare bladder leakage, you shouldn't be ashamed. Millions of women (and men) experience urinary incontinence at some point in their lives. To cope with incontinence issues, consider wearing pads and always carrying a change of underwear or clothing with you to deal with unexpected urine leakage.

Seek treatment with your primary care doctor, who may refer you to a urologist or urogynecologist. Treatment options vary tremendously and may include Kegel exercises, timed voiding, urethral injections, oral medications and possible surgery.

"Stress urinary incontinence and urge urinary incontinence are treated differently," South says. "Stress urinary incontinence can be treated with pelvic floor rehabilitation to strengthen the Kegel muscles, an incontinence pessary or surgery. The primary surgical treatments include a midurethral sling (which is a 20-minute procedure done in the operating room) or a urethral bulking agent injected directly into the urethra. These treatments are minimally invasive. More invasive and older treatments have been performed in the past (for example, the BURCH procedure or MMK) but these are less and less commonly performed.

More: Turns Out, Abdominal Hypopressive Technique Doesn't Stop Bladder Leaks

"Urge urinary incontinence can be treated with a combination of behavioral modification, pelvic floor rehabilitation and anticholinergic medications," South continues. "In addition, if these therapies do not work, other options include sacral neurmodulation, percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation or Botox injections into the muscle of the bladder. All of these procedures are relatively minimally invasive and have a place in the care of patients with urge urinary incontinence that have not responded to more traditional therapies."

No matter the severity of your bladder leakage, there's no need to be ashamed. Visit your doctor as soon as possible to develop a treatment plan.

A version of this article was originally published in March 2012.

Drew Barrymore Won #NationalGirlfriendsDay With This Photo

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ICYMI: National Girlfriends Day was yesterday. Did you remember to send your closest female friends and supporters a little bit of love? Obviously, you can send loving messages to the special women in your life whenever you want (and you should!), but it seems that the outpouring of love on National Girlfriends Day was massive. In fact, there was so much love to be shared among women and their female friends that celebrities we're fans of got in on the fun, including Drew Barrymore.

More: Drew Barrymore Weighs in on the Upcoming Charlie’s Angels Reboot

On National Girlfriends Day, Barrymore hopped onto her Instagram to post a sentimental tribute to her inner circle of gal pals. Alongside a photo from her wedding day years ago that shows her surrounded by her dearest lady friends — including Cameron Diaz — Barrymore wrote a heartfelt caption to go with it.

"#nationalgirlfriendsday my nearest and dearest on my wedding day," she began. "I was 6 months pregnant. Felt like I was in the best dream of my life. I am still doing this exact thing with these ladies. That doesn’t change even when life does."

Are you crying yet? We might be crying, but that's only because the love Barrymore has for her female friends is so very palpable. And truth be told, we can sense just how genuinely loving Barrymore is about the female friendships she has and maintains in her day-to-day life.

And it would seem that even though Barrymore was feeling extra sentimental on Wednesday, she frequently shows her followers just how close she is with her friends and how much she values them. As recently as Sunday, Barrymore was posting photos of herself and longtime bestie Diaz. The post is a Boomerang that shows the friends in face masks just hanging out. In another photo of her and Diaz, the women take a no-makeup selfie together, not only looking happy to be in one another's company, but just plain radiant as heck. 

More: Drew Barrymore Makes Emotional Plea on Instagram to "Keep Families Together"

Basically, Barrymore is a truly good friend, and in our humble opinions, she has officially won National Girlfriends Day without even trying.

Kate Hudson Shamed for Daring to Wear a Bikini While Pregnant

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Kate Hudson is pregnant with her third child and, while she's probably worried about things like stocking up on diapers and onesies, some trolls want her to focus her attention on, erm, her choice of swimwear. 

Earlier this week, Hudson dared to step out with boyfriend Danny Fujikawa wearing a yellow string bikini. Though the retreat was probably intended to be private, tabloids like Radar Online and Daily Mail got ahold of the paparazzi photos and posted them online, welcoming a slew of hateful comments. 

More: Surprise! Kate Hudson Is Pregnant With Her Third Child

"Why do women in Hollywood think that everyone is interested in seeing their pregnant bodies in bikinis?" one commenter asked. "Frankly, no one is really interested in seeing a fully pregnant almost naked woman." 

Another wrote: "Her stomach is massive and it's not beautiful to look at. Just because she is pregnant doesn't make her body beautiful." 

Excuse us while we try to break the record for the world's biggest eye roll. Beauty may be subjective, but that doesn't give people the right to, a) be a jerk and b) dictate how others dress and live their lives. If Hudson wants to show off her pregnant belly, by golly, she's gonna do it! And not to disappoint the haters, but she has celebrated her changing body a lot on Instagram. 


More: Kate Hudson & Son Ryder Are Serious Hair Twins

For the most part, fans have been supportive of her decision to live her life the way she sees fit. "Love me some baby belly," one fan commented on the above photo. "You are making a human being. Amazing." 

Guess what? It is pretty amazing to think that a human being can cultivate a whole new lifeform! Soak in some rays and show off the grow, Mama. 

Ketchup Packets Could Soon Be Getting a Major Makeover

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Following Starbucks' announced plan to eliminate single-use plastic straws globally from all its 28,000 stores by 2020, Kraft Heinz has stepped up its eco-friendly game as well. Kraft's new goal is to make 100 percent of its packaging recyclable, reusable or compostable globally by 2025. 

More: Starbucks & McDonald's Are Teaming Up to Help Save the Environment

According to a press release, Kraft Heinz will partner will packaging experts and organizations to "aggressively pursue technical alternatives" in addition to increasing the usage of recycled content in its packaging and decreasing the overall volume of packaging used.

"Our collective industry has a massive challenge ahead of us with respect to packaging recyclability, end-of-life recovery and single-use plastics," said Bernardo Hees, CEO at Kraft Heinz, in the release. "Even though we don't yet have all the answers, we owe it to current and future generations who call this planet 'home' to find better packaging solutions and actively progress efforts to improve recycling rates. That's why Kraft Heinz is placing heightened focus on this important environmental issue."

One of the most difficult aspects of this recycling push? How they'll make those pesky ketchup packets that overflow our kitchen drawers more eco-friendly.

According to Bloomberg, Kraft Heinz isn't sure how it'll approach its current nonrecyclable and nonreusable packaging, including ketchup packets. 

"Everything is on the table," head of global corporate reputation Caroline Krajewski told the publication. "We have a tough road ahead of us on certain packaging types, and there are issues where we'll have to band together with third parties and industry coalitions because no one of us can progress change in that area by ourselves."

She continues to say: "We're really entering brand-new territory here. We now have this seven-year runway to create a new solution. Where a technical solution does not exist, we'll need to find one."

This isn't Kraft Heinz's first foray into pursuing more sustainable packaging, though. Kraft Heinz Europe is also currently making the Heinz Tomato Ketchup PET plastic bottles, which are made partially from plants and have a lower reliance on nonrenewable resources, fully circular by 2022. The company plans to use recycled material able to be remade into food-grade packaging.

More: Ketchup Ice Cream Is a Thing, & We Can Blame Ed Sheeran

Lastly, Kraft Heinz has also joined the Science Based Targets initiative, working to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. "Adoption of these particularly aggressive targets is aimed at helping avoid a global temperature increase of more than two degrees Celsius," the press release states.

"We found that most of our emissions are coming from areas outside our direct operations," Hees said. "To truly succeed as champions of sustainability, we will look at our full value chain and determine where we can make the greatest impact for our planet."

Keep an eye out for further announcements from Kraft Heinz through 2020. 

Here Are the Next 10 Movies (10!) Dwayne Johnson Is Bringing to the Big Screen

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It's hard to believe Dwayne Johnson rose to fame as a wrestler with the tagline "Can you smell what The Rock is cookin'?" Today, he's one of the most sought-after stars in Hollywood, raking in the big bucks for blockbuster hits. And given his reputation for being impossibly nice, is it any wonder everyone's scrambling to have Johnson star in their next box-office hit?

More: Hollywood Movie Stars Who Aren't Above Doing TV

Johnson first made the transition from wrestling pro to legitimate actor back in 2001 as the Scorpion King in The Mummy Returns — a bit part, but one that led to his own spinoff movie, The Scorpion King. He still made time for the wrestling ring for a few years before really hitting the ground running as Hollywood's hottest new action hero.

Fast-forward to the present, and Johnson has 10 whole films in various stages of production. Here's the rundown (which, coincidentally, is the title of a 2003 movie starring Johnson) on everything this super-busy star has in the works.

More: Dwayne Johnson's Daughter Makes a Hilarious Observation About Her Dad

1. San Andreas 2

Johnson will reprise his role as rescue pilot Raymond Gaines in this follow-up to the 2015 thriller San Andreas. The sequel details are pretty hush-hush so far, but THR suggests the action will expand globally to include the infamous Ring of Fire — an area in the Pacific Ocean riddled with fault lines and volcanoes.

2. Jungle Cruise

Move over, Pirates of the Caribbean! There's a new Disney-ride-turned-film-franchise in town. Based on the beloved theme park attraction, Jungle Cruise will see Johnson take travelers on a small riverboat through a dangerous jungle with a supernatural twist. Variety reports that Johnson will be joined in the film by Emily Blunt and British comedian Jack Whitehall. Sounds fun, right?

3. Doc Savage

Johnson is set to star as the title character in this film based on the classic pulp magazines about a man born with superhuman strength. Unfortunately, the project — which is being directed by Shane Black — ran into a few logistical snags (read: rights issues) that have held up production. However, Johnson told Collider in April that they are "still kind of working through" the holdups and hope to move forward.

4. Black Adam

Shazam! fans are understandably hyped up about this spinoff centered on the 1974 film's anti-hero, Black Adam. "The script came in, it's great, we're working on it," Johnson told Yahoo in April. "If things come together in the way we anticipate them coming together, that feels like a 2019 movie." Something to look forward to, at least!

5. Big Trouble in Little China

While this film is more rumor than real life at this point, online forums have been buzzing for years about the idea of rebooting the 1986 cult classic. Johnson would tackle the role of Jack Burton, famously played by Kurt Russell in the original. Considering how well the star handled his modern adaptation of Jumanji, we're inclined to say he'd honor the original and turn out something great — especially since he told CinemaBlend he'd love to get OG director John Carpenter and even Russell involved in the remake.

6. Fighting With My Family

Talk about art imitating life! In Fighting With My Family, Johnson cameos as his former wrestling alter-ego in this film about a family of professional wrestlers. The movie is rooted in the true story of WWE Superstar Paige, who struggles to strike a balance between WWE fame and keeping her tight-knit family together.

7. Suicide Squad 2

The official Black Adam spinoff may be mired in legalities at the moment, but rumor has it that the character (Johnson) will show up in the 2019 Suicide Squad sequel. Little else is known about the follow-up, other than the fact that The Accountant's Gavin O'Connor will direct (as opposed to the first film's David Ayer).

8. Hobbs and Shaw

If this film sounds familiar, it's because you already know the characters — Luke Hobbs (played by Johnson) and Deckard Shaw (played by Jason Statham) came from The Fate of the Furious/The Fast and the Furious franchise. However, the film may be more memorable for all the behind-the-scenes drama it caused between Johnson and Fast and the Furious stars Tyrese Gibson and Vin Diesel.

9. Jumanji 2

Hooray! If you're anything like us, you're an unabashed fan of the original Jumanji (of course) and Johnson's 2017 reboot, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle. So, it's exciting to know there's already a sequel in the works. Slated to release in December 2019, Jumanji 2 will see the return of at least some of the first film's cast: Karen Gillan, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and, naturally, Johnson.

10. Red Notice

You'll have to wait a hot minute to watch this action thriller starring Johnson. According to Variety, its release date has been set for June 12, 2020. But with Johnson at the helm, we're sure it will be worth the wait. The premise? The actor will play an Interpol agent tasked with tracking down the world's most wanted art thief.

A version of this article was originally published in May 2018.

How to Get the Most out of Car Time on Vacation

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Summer isn't over, folks, so we hope your weekends are packed with fun family travel. Of course, much as we love to travel, there are definitely tricks that can make it more pleasant to go sightseeing. For example, would you rather be cramped in a tiny car with your gaggle of children or give everyone their personal space in a spacious SUV? We'd opt for the latter. 

Whether you're visiting historic places to put the present world in context, getting pictures next to roadside attractions or heading to a specific destination for some time in the sun, here are a few quick tips for getting the most out of your vacation when you're traveling by car.


1. Pack delicious snacks.

2. Make a packing list for all the clothing and gear you'll need so you don't forget anything.

3. Send yourself a Google Maps link outlining your road trip in case you get lost.

4. Prepare a playlist in advance so you've got great tunes to listen to.

Watch the video for more tips on how to have an amazing road trip vacation.

This post was sponsored by Honda.


What to Do if You Realize You're a Toxic Person

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Whether it's a friend, family member or romantic partner, many of us have needed to cut ties — or establish firm boundaries — with someone when we realize this person is toxic and the relationship is harmful to our emotional well-being. But there's an elephant in the room when it comes to discussing toxic behavior and relationships. What should you do if you realize you're the toxic person in a relationship? 

Admit there's a problem (you)

As is the case with most problems, the first step is acknowledging that your behavior is harmful to one or more people in your life. Because we're accustomed to directing our attention outward, this is easier said than done. 

"It can be easy to spot toxic behaviors in others, yet it can be very difficult to spot them in ourselves," Dr. Carla Marie Manly, a clinical psychologist, tells SheKnows. "The phenomenon occurs because it is human nature to observe the behaviors of others far more than we observe our own behaviors." 

More: Tips for Handling the Most Toxic Person in Your Life (Who You Can't Just Cut Out)

Start noticing patterns in behavior

Manly says that certain toxic behaviors — such as gossiping, judgment, criticism, sarcasm and complaining — can be difficult to spot because the individual has become so accustomed to them. 

"Listen to those who love you," she advises. If you've repeatedly been on the receiving end of comments like, "You’re such a drama queen!" and "You never stop complaining," don't write them off — use them as an opportunity for self-reflection. 

"Allow yourself to notice if various people have called you on the same behavior throughout the years," Manly says. "This is a sign that your behavior in these areas may indeed be toxic."

More: Are You in a Toxic Relationship? Look Out for These 6 Signs

Pay attention to your relationships

Dr. Sal Raichbach, a psychologist at Ambrosia Treatment Center, tells SheKnows that if your friends don't stick around, it could be a red flag that you're the problem in your relationships. 

"Toxic behaviors take a serious toll on relationships, and eventually, they will drive away the people that are closest to you," Raichbach says. "If friends are constantly dropping out of your social circle, it might be a sign that your attitudes and behaviors are causing people to disappear." 

Stop blaming others

Consistently blaming others for your own problems is also a sign that you're a toxic person. As Raichbach points out, the inability to take responsibility for your own actions typically means that you push the negativity onto the people around you.  

If these signs hit close to home, don't despair — once you acknowledge problematic behavior, you can get to work fixing it and becoming the best version of yourself. "It’s important to recognize that no one is entirely toxic, so even if you have some unhealthy behaviors, it doesn’t mean you’re a bad person," Raichbach explains.

More: Are You a Toxic Coworker?

We've all witnessed a person mistreat others or give off a negative energy. Raichbach suggests asking yourself if you've been guilty of engaging in similar behaviors. "If you take yourself out of the equation, it's easier to see the cause and effect of treating others poorly," he says. 

Take a step back

Individuals can benefit from taking a step back from a situation in order to observe their own behavior, Manly explains. She suggests the technique of imagining three circles: The self, the other person (or situation) and the "objective being." Although Manly says it can take quite a bit of practice to learn this skill, it's worth the effort because it can be a game-changer when it comes to the process of self-observation and self-awareness.

"For example, if a person is often accused of being critical or sarcastic, the idea would be to detach (to step back) to imagine how another person would take a certain comment," Manly explains. "Then, the 'objective being' would chime in to see the comment with even greater detachment. This skill can be applied to almost every situation." 

Breaking the cycle of toxic behaviors won't happen overnight, but taking these concrete steps will improve both your life and the lives of the people who matter to you most. 

Moms Get Brutally Honest About How Having Kids Has Affected Their Sex Lives

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The idea that becoming a parent changes your sex life has become a cliché at this point, but according to the results of a new survey, it's a cliché for a reason.

Almost 1,000 parents participated in a survey conducted by Leesa, a mattress company, and got brutally honest about how having kids has affected the quality and quantity of the sex they're having (or in some cases, not having). 

What impact does having kids have on parents' sex lives overall? Almost half (47 percent) of moms said that having kids has made their sex life worse, while 40 percent report no change, and a lucky 13 percent say their sex life has actually improved since becoming a mother. 

More: Here's How to Have a Fulfilling Sex Life After Kids

Moms also reported an overall decrease in sexual desire, with 61 percent indicating that their sex drive has gone down since becoming a parent, while 28 percent say it's stayed the same, and 11 percent report that being a mother has increased their libido.

Between all the responsibilities that come with being a parent, it's hardly surprising that parents reported a significant drop in the number of times each month they have sex, decreasing from 19 times a month pre-kids to 10 times a month post-kids. Two-thirds of parents say they lock their door during sex, with 15 percent indicating their kids have walked in on them during the act.

But how do these parents manage to fit in sex 10 times a month? The most popular strategy (with 67 percent of parents saying they do this) is waiting until their kids are asleep. This is followed by being extra quiet (64 percent), putting the kids to bed early (54 percent), showering together (42 percent), using technology to distract/engage their kids (39 percent), taking the kids to a relative's house (37 percent) and waiting until the kids go to school (33 percent). 

More: How Infertility & Trying to Conceive Changes Sex

In fact, only 2 percent of study participants report that they don't do any prep or take any deliberate steps to fitting sex into their busy lives. So, if you're feeling like scheduling time to be intimate with your partner takes the fun out of it, don't! It looks like it's actually quite necessary. 

Joanna Gaines Reveals Her Recent Pregnancy Was a Surprise

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In June, Joanna Gaines (and husband Chip Gaines) welcomed a new addition to their family: Crew Gaines. Crew is the fifth child for Chip and Joanna — though he is their first in over eight years — and while the pair had joked about the possibility of having another child, Joanna recently revealed that she never thought it would happen. In fact, People reports that in the current issue of The Magnolia Journal, Joanna said, “I truly believed I was done. And yet," Joanna adds, "after eight years, here I am with a newborn in my arms.”

That said, while Joanna's pregnancy wasn't anything she or husband Chip anticipated, it was exactly she needed. "Being pregnant... 'forced' [me] to slow down [and that] has been a gift,”

More: Joanna Gaines Gives First Peek Into Baby Crew's Nursery, & It's So Her

However, things haven't been easy for Joanna. She admits that, with this pregnancy, things were different: “I am 40, and pregnancy this time was different. I have always really enjoyed being pregnant — I tend to feel my best during those nine months. [But] this time I felt a little more worn out than usual.”

She also revealed that she feels like "a first-time mom all over again." However, that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Age has also given her perspective. "I don’t know if it’s because I’m a little older, but this time around, I am more comfortable in my own skin, sure that I can do this," Joanna said. I am "confident that I was made for this very thing in this very season."

More: You'll Want Everything From Joanna Gaines' Limited-Edition Baby Collection


Chip and Joanna welcomed Crew to the family on June 21. “And then there were 5," Chip wrote on Twitter. "The Gaines crew is now 1 stronger! 10 beautiful toes and 10 beautiful fingers all accounted for, and big momma is doing great! #blessedBeyondBelief.” And Chip is right: The entire Gaines family is beautiful.

A Golden Girls Cookbook Is Coming in 2020, & Yes, There's a Cheesecake Recipe

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The Golden Girls ladies and cheesecake seem to go hand in hand, don't they? Episode after episode, we've watched the women gab and gossip over of a slice of cheesecake, but we've never actually known: What exactly is in that cheesecake, Blanche?

More: Golden Girls Hot Sauce Is a Thing That Now Exists

Well, today, we got the answer. Not only did Disney publication Babble share the cheesecake recipe we've been dying to make since the show aired in the '80s, but they also made a huge announcement: a Golden Girls cookbook is coming!

Details are sparse, but we do know the author is Chris Styler — the author of The Desperate Housewives Cookbook released way back in 2006 (so you know it's got to be good). And we also know the cookbook should be published sometime in 2020 by Kingswell, an imprint of Disney Publishing. 

Aside from plenty of cheesecake recipes (we can only hope there's more than one!), what else will we see in the cookbook? Will we get a cheese ball recipe? Or a Genurkenflurken cake recipe? How about lasagna as a tribute to all the Italian food Sophia cooks? Oh, wait, we've got it! An ice cream sundae recipe!

More: Ina Garten Just Shared a Recipe From Her Upcoming Cookbook, & Its Perfect for Summer

Guess we'll have to wait ever so patiently until the cookbook releases. Until then, we'll just be over here picking up all the ingredients we need to make this double fudge chocolate cheesecake, and you're all invited over. 

Debra Messing Reveals Exciting News for Will & Grace Season 2

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Will & Grace is a popular show. Very popular. In fact, in 2001, it was the ninth-most-watched series according to Nielsen ratings. So it is no wonder that — after an 11-year absence — Will & Grace was "rebooted." (The creators decided to make the new season, which debuted in 2017, more of a revival than a continuation, i.e., neither Will nor Grace have a spouse and/or children.) But enough about the past. On Wednesday, Debra Messing revealed some exciting new information about season two — or 10 depending on how your counting — and you don't want to miss this.

More: 9 Things We Love About the Will & Grace Reboot

"There’s going to be all kinds of new things to play with and joke about," Messing said during an appearance on the Hollywood Foreign Press Association’s podcast, The HFPA in Conversation. "Grace is getting a love interest, which I’m looking very forward to. Karen [Megan Mullally] is getting divorced, Will [Eric McCormack] is changing jobs, and Jack [Sean Hayes] is getting married […] big sweeping changes."

(I don't know about you, but I can hardly stand the suspense.)

In addition to Messing's announcement, NBC also confirmed that the cast would be growing: Chelsea Handler will be joining group this fall as Donna Zimmer, “a high-powered lesbian” according to Entertainment Weekly, and Alec Baldwin has stated that he will be reviving his role as Malcolm Widmark, Karen's former (but potentially future) lover. 

More: 11 Things Only Will & Grace Fans Understand

The "second" second season will debut at 9/8c on the night of Oct. 4 on NBC, and the third season — which, according to TVLine, has already been green-lit — will air in the fall of 2019.

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