If you’ve tried every app and trend to lose weight and nothing’s stuck, listen up. This app isn’t about food restriction; it’s about checking under the hood (your brain) to see how things function and what makes it tick.

Noom Weight is more than your average weight loss app. It’s giving ‘therapist, coach, dietitian,’ but also ‘bestie who’s been through this before, and wants to follow you on your journey’.

It’s a mix of psychology, coaching, flexible food tracking, and a community of folks who have been where you are (yup, even there).

The “Why” Factor

Noom’s goal isn’t to fix you. It wants to be the guardrails in the noisy world of wellness, helping you figure out what your body actually needs to live its best life.

The magic touch is its psychology-based approach. It’s less about what you’re eating and more about the why.

A gut check, essentially (pun-intended), to help you understand your habits. All without the side of guilt.

Here’s what Noom Weight offers:

What it feels like

So, you want to take a chance on Noom Weight. Here’s what to expect, from time commitments to tools offered.

• Lessons learned: Every day, Noom will share articles, tidbits, and lessons that help build on setting those new habits we talked about.
• Minutes of your day: Feel good one day, but not as much the next? You can be on Noom for as little as 1 minute per day to up to 12 minutes. And if you’re looking for more, say hello to bonus lessons.
• So many options: We’re not kidding when we say Noom is full of resources. It has habit tracking, mood tracking, an AI tool that helps with food logging, 360 Body Scans, and so. much. more.

A 12-month epilogue from Kimberly Currin

If you’re looking for real-life experience with Noom Weight, have we got one for you.

Kimberly Currin, Kim, tested Noom for over a year. Month after month, she checked in with us and shared her candid, vulnerable experiences so we could understand how she handled the process.

The time came with struggles and roller coasters, but with the additional resources Noom provided, Kim was able to get to the place she is now. At month 11, she celebrated 20 pounds of weight loss with Noom.

Going forward, she’s excited to have the knowledge that she is capable of managing her relationship with food.

“I feel like it’s no longer controlling me; I’m managing it,” Kim said. “I know my body, I know my cycle, I know my hormones, I know my brain. So, the journey continues.”

FAQs about Noom

Noom Med is the ‘Hype Friend’ You Didn’t Know You Needed

Clinically-Backed, Customized to You

Your Friend is a Proven and Trusted Program

Most weight loss programs give you a prescription or a plan and send you on your way. Not Noom.

Noom Med combines the clinician-prescribed GLP-1 medication with the psychology-based approach that’s already helped millions.

What to expect: Keep the muscle, lose the fat, develop healthy habits, and find community support.

Noom’s primary goal is to empower everyone everywhere to live better, longer. All of its programs, courses, efforts, clinicians, and team of specialists are designed to help you reach your goal.

All while you have a team of specialists to guide you through the process.

Take A Hand and Jump In

Noom’s GLP-1^Rx Program is developed by doctors and is backed by Noom’s original behavioral change program.

The process shows and affirms that there is more than one way to achieve your health goals: The way that works best for you. To get started:

1. Take the quiz
2. Connect with a qualified clinician
3. If you qualify, start a customized treatment plan with medication
4. Have ongoing access to care and personalized support

The Companion, GLP-1 Companion

If you qualify for GLP-1 medications, you will have access to Noom’s GLP-1 Companion for no added cost.

GLP-1 Companion is a tool and friend that provides dedicated support from the beginning of your weight-loss journey through long after to help you maintain your weight.

Most-engaged GLP-1 Companion users show 25% more weight loss than least-engaged members³

It offers resources and support to guide you on everything related to GLP-1 use to ensure you’re getting the most out of your medication, including:

• Smartdose Guidance to support clinician-led treatment
• AI Nutrition Guidance helps create personalized plans
• Muscle Defense workouts tailored to you
• An AI Body Scan than can help track body composition
• Other tips on movement, side effects, and more

In Step With You Along The Way

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FAQs

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Weight Loss Designed For You, Trusted By Us

Noom Med is an accessible and affordable weight loss program that pairs psychology with medication, ensuring healthy transformation and lasting results.

With Noom Med and GLP-1 medication, users experience 48% more weight loss in 6 months than those using medications alone.*

Noom understands that weight loss is most effective when tailored to your individual needs. Complete a quick online quiz, and Noom will recommend a custom plan to achieve your health goals.

97% of doctors recommend combining GLP-1s with lifestyle changes.^{^} That’s why the Noom app provides a GLP-1 companion to support reliable and long-lasting healthy habits.

Users benefit from 100% online access to Noom’s expert clinical team and coaches. No in-person appointments means fast and convenient weight management.

You can access Noom’s proven and trusted weight loss program via the companion app, designed to enhance the benefits of GLP-1 medications with specialized workouts, recipes, and tracking features.

Hello Ellis

Effective Weight Loss in Five Simple Steps

Noom ensures your weight loss journey starts right, by guiding you throughout the process. Noom Med follows these simple steps:

1. Fill out a quick clinical survey about your health history and goals, and verify your identity.
2. A licenced clinician will evaluate your results to determine if a prescription is best for you. This can all be conveniently completed in the app.
3. Noom’s insurance concierge helps determine the costs, saving you the hassle of navigating insurance on your own. The Noom Med program is also FSA & HSA eligible.
4. Receive your prescribed medication within 7 days.
5. Receive ongoing care from trained coaches alongside unlimited medication refills and contact with your clinician, where appropriate.

Choose Noom Med for Safe and Long Lasting Results

If you qualify for Noom Med, you can choose between two different paths: Noom GLP-1^RX Program or Microdose GLP-1rx Program^RX, and Branded medications. Pricing for Noom Med varies based on your chosen plan.

Branded GLP-1 medications available through Noom Med includes:

• Ozempic
• Wegovy
• Zepbound
• Mounjaro

The microdosing GLP-1 program provides users with a lower dose of GLP-1s, decreasing potential side effects.

The microdosing program includes access to the companion app alongside regular, at-home biomarker testing.

*Based on a retrospective study of self-reported data of pounds lost for active versus passive users who were offered the Noom program when being prescribed an early stage GLP-1.

^✝Noom results involve maintaining a healthy diet and exercise changes. Individual results vary.

^Based on an independent third party survey of 251 primary care physicians who currently prescribe GLP-1 medications.

Clinically Proven Weight Loss

Weight Loss Designed For You, Trusted By Us

Noom Med is an accessible and affordable weight loss program that pairs psychology with medication, ensuring healthy transformation and lasting results.

With Noom Med and GLP-1 medication, users experience 48% more weight loss in 6 months than those using medications alone.*

Noom understands that weight loss is most effective when tailored to your individual needs. Complete a quick online quiz, and Noom will recommend a custom plan to achieve your health goals.

97% of doctors recommend combining GLP-1s with lifestyle changes.^{^} That’s why the Noom app provides a GLP-1 companion to support reliable and long-lasting healthy habits.

Users benefit from 100% online access to Noom’s expert clinical team and coaches. No in-person appointments means fast and convenient weight management.

You can access Noom’s proven and trusted weight loss program via the companion app, designed to enhance the benefits of GLP-1 medications with specialized workouts, recipes, and tracking features.

Effective Weight Loss in Five Simple Steps

Noom ensures your weight loss journey starts right, by guiding you throughout the process. Noom Med follows these simple steps:

1. Fill out a quick clinical survey about your health history and goals, and verify your identity.
2. A licenced clinician will evaluate your results to determine if a prescription is best for you. This can all be conveniently completed in the app.
3. Noom’s insurance concierge helps determine the costs, saving you the hassle of navigating insurance on your own. The Noom Med program is also FSA & HSA eligible.
4. Receive your prescribed medication within 7 days.
5. Receive ongoing care from trained coaches alongside unlimited medication refills and contact with your clinician, where appropriate.

Choose Noom Med for Safe and Long Lasting Results

If you qualify for Noom Med, you can choose between two different paths: Noom GLP-1^RX Program or Microdose GLP-1rx Program^RX, and Branded medications. Pricing for Noom Med varies based on your chosen plan.

Branded GLP-1 medications available through Noom Med includes:

• Ozempic
• Wegovy
• Zepbound
• Mounjaro

The microdosing GLP-1 program provides users with a lower dose of GLP-1s, decreasing potential side effects.

The microdosing program includes access to the companion app alongside regular, at-home biomarker testing.

*Based on a retrospective study of self-reported data of pounds lost for active versus passive users who were offered the Noom program when being prescribed an early stage GLP-1.

^✝Noom results involve maintaining a healthy diet and exercise changes. Individual results vary.

^Based on an independent third party survey of 251 primary care physicians who currently prescribe GLP-1 medications.

TEST!

Best Green Powders for 2026

Our medical team reviewed 25+ greens powders, assessing health claims, ingredients, and brand integrity to identify trusted products.

ow We Medically Vet and Review Greens Powders

Healthline’s medical standards and integrity team review and vet all products we feature against strict criteria.

We reviewed more than 25 popular greens powders available in the U.S., with 16 passing our criteria. Factors we assess include:

• health claims
• brand reputation
• customer reviews
• ingredients
• nutrition

FAQ: What You Need to Know About Greens Powders

What are the benefits of greens powders?

Greens powders are typically rich in vegetables and fruits, providing various minerals and vitamins, helping to bridge nutritional gaps. Some people take greens powders as a replacement for multivitamins.

Many greens powders also contain probiotics, fiber, digestive enzymes, and more to support gut health. Adaptogens for stress relief and mood benefits are also popular.

Learn more about the benefits of greens powders.

Are greens powders safe?

Most greens powders are generally safe to take as part of a healthy, balanced diet. However, it is important to follow product directions, and factor in your medications, conditions, or lifestyle factors.

It’s a good idea to choose greens powders from reputable brands that conduct third-party testing to ensure the product is free from contaminants like heavy metals and contain the listed ingredients in the stated dose.

Learn more about the potential downsides of greens powders.

How much do greens powders cost?

The price of greens powders can vary significantly, but generally a one-off purchase of a 30-day supply will cost between $35 to $60. This equates to a price per daily serving of around $1.16 to $2.

Most brands offer subscription discounts of around 20%, which usually includes free shipping.

How can I find the best greens powder?

Look for greens powders that are third-party tested and made by reputable brands. Ingredients and nutritional information should be readily available online.

Some products are formulated for specific health concerns or aims. For example, Live It Up contains probiotics and digestive enzymes for gut health, AG1 is formulated for athletes, and Perelel Synbiotic is designed to support women’s health.

Learn more about choosing the best greens powder for your needs.

How do I take a greens powder?

Manufacturers design many greens powders so that people can take them once per day, similar to a multivitamin supplement. Follow product directions carefully and avoid taking excess doses.

Greens powders can be mixed into cold liquid by hand or with a blender. Typically, greens powders should not be heated to avoid destroying the nutrients.

Can greens powders improve digestion?

Many greens powders include fiber, probiotics, and digestive enzymes to support healthy digestion, potentially reducing bloating and encouraging regular bowel movements.

Learn more about the benefits of greens powders.

Shop Our Top 3 Greens

Key takeaways

• Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, progressive skin condition that causes boil-like lumps to form in areas with hair follicles and apocrine glands. These lumps may become inflamed, infected, and painful, though HS itself isn’t an infection.
• HS commonly appears in areas prone to sweat and friction, including the underarms, breasts, groin, inner thighs, buttocks, nape of the neck, and waistband area. Friction from skin rubbing on skin or clothing may trigger flares.
• Genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors may play a role in HS, though the exact cause isn’t known. If you suspect you have HS, talk with a dermatologist who can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Despite what Instagram and photo filters would have us think, no one has perfectly smooth skin over the entirety of their body. We’re all prone to the occasional bump, rash, zit, or ingrown hair. These issues generally go away after the blocked follicle, clogged pore, or minor skin irritation resolves.

But hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is different. HS is a chronic, progressive skin condition that typically appears as boil-like lumps in some of your most sensitive regions (and beyond).

HS lumps or bumps can form interconnected tracts underneath the skin that may become inflamed and infected, causing discomfort and pain. Although infections are often a part of HS, the disease itself is not an infection — it’s due to an ongoing inflammatory response in the body.

In addition to causing pain and discomfort, HS can be extremely frustrating and impact your self-esteem. Identifying HS correctly and early is crucial for getting optimal care, easing symptoms, slowing disease progression, and improving your mental health.

While we don’t know what exactly causes HS, genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors may play a role. Skin regions prone to HS include those where we sweat often and where friction is super common. Friction can occur from skin rubbing on skin, or where clothing can chafe or rub.

Here are seven areas of the body that are often impacted by HS.

Armpits

Our underarms are packed with hair follicles and apocrine glands (aka, sweat glands). With HS, these follicles and glands may become clogged, and bacteria can start to grow, leading to the inflamed boil-like bumps of HS.

If you’ve ever gone for a run and come back with the dreaded armpit chafing, you’re all too familiar with how this area of the body can be prone to skin-on-skin friction or excessive rubbing from clothing. (Lookin’ at you, sports bra!) Friction and chafing can also cause an HS flare-up.

Complicating matters is that some people shave or wax their armpits, and many understandably slather this region with antiperspirants or deodorants. These factors can also clog or irritate sweat glands and hair follicles.

Breasts

The breasts, including underneath and even on the areolae (the area around the nipple), are a common place for HS to show up.

The breast area is a frequent spot for chafing from bras or other clothing. This chafing not only causes skin irritation — it can also trap sweat and bacteria on the skin. The areolae contain apocrine glands and hair follicles that can easily become infected. All these factors can contribute to an HS flare. 

Research also points to sex hormones playing a role in HS, so a hormone shift or imbalance may also make breast tissue more prone to HS lesions. However, more research is needed on the connection between HS and hormones.

Groin

No one can deny that the crotch becomes a sweaty area when life gets steamy, either from the weather, a workout, or both. It’s also a common area for clothing to rub against just from walking and everyday movements. 

As with other HS-prone areas, the groin and genital areas contain apocrine glands and oodles of hair follicles, all of which can become blocked as part of HS, leading to a flare. Speaking of hair down there, many people groom their pubic region, which can also lead to blocked hair follicles.

Again, hormonal shifts or imbalances may also play a role in why these sensitive areas can become hot spots for HS.

Inner thighs

The inner thighs are an extension of the groin area. Similarly, sweat also hangs out here, and it’s a common spot for chafing to occur from skin-on-skin friction, or from clothing rubbing and irritating the area. 

Buttocks

The entire buttocks area is also prone to HS in many people. Areas commonly affected include the anus, the butt crack, and the gluteal fold — or the crease where the buttocks meet the backs of the upper thighs. 

Apocrine glands and hair follicles are abundant here, too. Sweat and other bacteria sources can also lead to HS infections. The buttocks are also subjected to pressure from sitting, which can lead to further irritation.

Although more research is needed, some studies suggest a link between HS and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is an umbrella term for conditions such as Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis. The potential links between HS and IBD may play a role in why the buttocks area is a common site for HS.

Nape of the neck

Although less common than in other areas, HS can also show up at the nape of the neck. This might be due to friction from clothing collars, jewelry, and other clothing or accessories. The neck is also a common site for sweat, which could block hair follicles in this area.

Waistband area

If skin folds at the waist, or clothing waistbands (especially tight ones!) cause friction, it can lead to HS in the waistband area. As a result, HS lesions may show up on the abdomen, back, or sides. 

tl;dr

HS tends to appear on some of the body’s most sensitive places, including the underarms, breasts, groin, and buttocks. These areas are prone to sweat, friction, and irritation from hair removal — all of which may contribute to an HS flare.

If you suspect you have HS, talk with a knowledgeable dermatologist who can give you a proper diagnosis and help you develop the right treatment and self-care plan to combat irritation and flares so you can feel more comfortable in your skin.

Key takeaways

• Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic skin condition that appears as boil-like lumps in friction-prone areas like your armpits or groin. These lumps can form interconnected tracts underneath your skin.
• HS is commonly mistaken for acne, cysts, ingrown hairs, folliculitis, boils, and herpes because these conditions share similar symptoms or occur in the same areas. However, HS requires ongoing treatment, while many of these other conditions are temporary or resolve with different care.
• Getting a proper diagnosis from a knowledgeable dermatologist is crucial because a misdiagnosis can lead to incorrect treatment that won’t ease your symptoms or slow HS progression.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a skin condition that often gets caught up in a case of mistaken identity in a lineup of suspects. Specifically, people confuse HS for some more common conditions.

With their host of bumps, rashes, flakiness, or scales, skin conditions can sometimes be tricky to diagnose. That’s because they often share common symptoms or have symptoms that overlap with or mimic those of another skin issue.

So, what exactly is HS? It’s a chronic, progressive skin condition that typically appears as boil-like lumps in friction-prone and sweaty areas, where your skin can be sensitive. These lumps can form interconnected tracts underneath your skin (aka “tunneling”) that may become irritated or even infected.

Knowing how the symptoms of HS compare with those of other inflammatory skin conditions can help you advocate for the correct diagnosis and care, which is crucial for staving off disease progression.

Here are 7 conditions that HS commonly gets mistaken for.

1. Acne vulgaris

HS isn’t rare — it affects up to 4% of the population. But by comparison, acne vulgaris affects more than more than 9% of people worldwide. Sometimes HS can be mistaken for acne simply because acne is more common. But these two conditions are quite different.

Acne typically shows up as papules, pustules, or nodules, which are commonly called zits or blemishes. Acne most often appears on your face but can also affect your back, chest, arms, and buttocks. It occurs when your sebaceous glands have a hypersensitivity to circulating androgens (like testosterone).

By comparison, HS most often appears in sweat- and friction-prone areas, such as your armpits or groin. It occurs when hair follicles become blocked — though more research is needed to learn what causes these blockages.

2. Acne conglobata

Acne conglobata (AC) is a rare but intense form of nodulocystic acne. With AC, the cysts and nodules connect under your skin, and this can lead to infections and scarring. Since AC features a “tunneling” effect that may appear similar to HS, many people confuse these two otherwise distinct conditions. 

One key difference? HS often appears in areas that are subjected to friction from skin-on-skin contact or chafing. AC, on the other hand, can appear anywhere on your body. To further complicate things, many people with HS also have AC, and some research suggests a link between the two conditions.

3. Cysts

A cyst is a fluid-filled sac. Cysts have many possible causes, including injuries and minor infections. They often go away on their own, but some may require treatment.

HS bumps can resemble cysts — but HS is an ongoing inflammatory condition.

4. Ingrown hairs

An ingrown hair happens when a strand of hair anywhere on your body grows into your skin instead of out. Ingrown hairs commonly occur after shaving, waxing, or tweezing. After hair removal, a tiny new hair can curl inward, creating a bump (often called a razor bump).

Sometimes people confuse HS bumps for ingrown hairs — especially since HS often occurs in places where hair removal is common, such as the armpits and bikini area. Another confusing factor is that HS develops from blocked follicles. However, the cause of the blockage in HS is more complicated than an ingrown hair.

5. Folliculitis

Folliculitis is inflammation of hair follicles, usually caused by a bacterial infection. The inflamed hair follicles show up as small bumps and can look like ingrown hairs.

People commonly mistake HS for folliculitis because the conditions often occur in the same skin areas. 

Mild folliculitis tends to go away on its own with at-home treatment, though more severe forms may require antibiotics. HS, on the other hand, is a chronic condition.

6. Boils and carbuncles

A boil (also called a furuncle) is a bump filled with pus. The bump develops from a bacterial infection, often of a hair follicle. The infection causes a buildup of immune and skin cells, which leads to the formation of the bump. A carbuncle is a cluster of boils. 

People often confuse HS with boils. However, boils are the result of an infection, and proper treatment typically resolves the issue. Meanwhile, the boil-like bumps of HS often require ongoing treatment.

7. Herpes

Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus. It shows up as painful sores or blisters.

Since herpes often affects the genital area and HS occurs around the groin or bikini line, people may confuse the two conditions. But while herpes can be spread through direct contact, HS is not contagious.

tl;dr

Other skin conditions can mimic HS, and vice versa. But a misdiagnosis can lead to an incorrect treatment that won’t actually ease your symptoms or slow the condition’s progression. This is true for other skin conditions as well.

That’s why, if you have symptoms of any of the above conditions, you should talk with a knowledgeable dermatologist who can properly diagnose your concerns and find the right treatment plan.

Key takeaways

• Persistent skin symptoms like itchiness, rashes, dryness, discoloration, or bumps may signal chronic conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or hidradenitis suppurativa (HS).
• Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) causes painful, boil-like lumps under your skin in high-friction areas like the armpits or groin. These can turn into pus-filled pockets that may connect via tunnels.
• If skin symptoms don’t improve with at-home care or return frequently, talk with a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Your skin is your most visible organ, so it’s easy to notice when something seems off. It’s normal to experience some skin issues from time to time, like itchiness, breakouts, or ingrown hairs. But when these skin symptoms stick around, it could be a sign that something more serious is going on.

Many of these skin issues get better with the right at-home remedies or changes in your skin care routine. For example, if dryness pops up when Old Man Winter comes along, slathering on a more intense moisturizer may help.

But if skin symptoms don’t go away with a little self-care — or they return frequently — a chronic skin condition might be the culprit. However, just because you have a lasting symptom or two doesn’t necessarily mean you have a chronic health issue.

Here are the symptoms you should watch for and what they might mean. And if they don’t improve, consider checking in with a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and a plan of action.

Itchiness

If you wish you had cat claws to satisfy your skin itch, you could be dealing with eczema. Eczema is an umbrella term for several conditions that impact the skin, with atopic dermatitis being the most common.

With most forms of eczema, your skin may show signs of inflammation, such as:

• itchiness
• red, gray, brown, or purple skin
• a rash
• intense dryness

These symptoms may flare up occasionally and then go into periods of remission, where your skin isn’t as irritated.

Allergies can also lead to itchiness. For example, if you’re allergic to a skin care ingredient, a fabric type, a pet, or another allergen, your skin might react as a way to tell you to avoid this trigger.

Ongoing or regular periods of itchiness are a reason to see a dermatologist.

Rashes

A rash can affect the skin in various ways, including:

• red, gray, brown, or purple patches
• itchiness
• raised bumps
• hives (urticaria)

A one-off or temporary rash might result from friction or chafing from a new outfit item. It could also be a heat rash when sweat gets trapped in skinfolds or bodily creases.

A persistent rash could be a sign of eczema or allergies. However, different types of rashes can be a sign of other things. For example, a butterfly-shaped (malar) rash across the face is a common sign of an autoimmune disease known as lupus.

If you frequently experience skin rashes, talk with a dermatologist to help you get to the bottom of the issue.

Dryness, cracking, or scaling

Dry skin can be just that — dry skin. Common causes include:

• cold weather
• dry weather
• dry indoor heat
• super-hot baths or showers
• bathing too frequently
• chlorine exposure from swimming
• irritation from ingredients in skin care or soaps
• sun exposure

But if your skin is so dry it makes you want to bathe in a vat of thick moisturizer, it could be a sign of psoriasis.

Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition potentially caused by an overactive immune system. It can lead to dry, cracked, or scaling skin. In fact, psoriasis often involves a buildup of scales or plaques on areas like the elbows or knees — though they can occur anywhere.

Psoriasis and eczema are different conditions, but they have overlapping symptoms that mimic each other. So if you experience these symptoms, it’s important to see a dermatologist to identify and treat the underlying cause.

Discoloration

Changes in skin color — including red, brown, gray, or purple patches of skin — can be a sign of various skin issues, including eczema, psoriasis, or allergies. But it can also be a sign of rosacea.

Rosacea typically involves persistent redness that looks like a sunburn or blushing. It may also lead to skin thickening.

The good news? Rosacea is highly treatable. So working with a dermatologist can help you address it.

Acne, cysts, or bumps

No one is immune from developing the occasional pimple or ingrown hair. But sometimes, skin bumps can be a sign that something else is going on.

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that could bring skin bumps like pimples.

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is another condition that causes painful, boil-like lumps to form underneath the skin. These bumps can turn into pus-filled pockets that may connect via tunnels. HS typically shows up in areas of high friction or where skin meets skin, such as the armpits or groin.

Other types of skin bumps may include ingrown hairs, which can get infected and turn into folliculitis.

Talk with a dermatologist to help you address any bothersome skin bumps you may experience.

Mole changes

Common moles are growths that develop when pigment cells (melanocytes) grow in clusters. The average adult has between 10 to 40 common moles.

An irregular mole, also known as a dysplastic nevus, is a type of mole that looks different from your common moles. If you have a dysplastic nevus (or several), schedule regular skin checks with a dermatologist to look for anything suspicious. Be sure to mention any changes in:

• color
• size
• shape
• texture
• oozing
• bleeding

These types of changes could be a sign of a form of skin cancer such as melanoma, which occurs in melanocytes. Melanoma can develop anywhere, including on normal-looking skin, a common mole, or a dysplastic nevus. 

tl;dr

Skin symptoms — like rashes, bumps, discoloration, dryness, or itchiness — may come and go. But if symptoms stick around or return frequently, consider seeing a dermatologist for an evaluation. Your skin may be telling you that there’s an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

A dermatologist can provide a proper diagnosis and treatment plan to help reduce, or, in some cases, resolve your skin symptoms. If you don’t currently have a dermatologist, your primary care physician or nurse practitioner can refer you to one.

Key takeaways

• Jojoba oil closely resembles the natural sebum your scalp produces, making it effective for balancing oil production whether you have an oily or dry scalp.
• It may help moisturize and strengthen hair, reduce dandruff, and add shine. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties support scalp health.
• Massage a few drops directly onto your scalp and leave it for at least 30 minutes (or overnight) before washing. You can also use it in shampoos or combine it with rosemary oil for a hair mask.

Jojoba oil is a must-have for moisturizing shampoos and skincare products. 

The slippery oil is squeezed out of jojoba plant seeds. These plants are shrubs that pop up around the desert-y spots of Arizona, southern California, and Mexico. 

Though it’s been used as a natural remedy for centuries, jojoba oil is having a major hair moment right now.

Keep reading to learn how to use it for strong, shiny hair and a healthy scalp.

Benefits of jojoba for hair

“Jojoba oil is incredibly nourishing,” says Mayara Macedo, a hairstylist and scalp specialist in NYC. “It’s a natural oil that closely resembles the sebum our skin and scalp produce,” Macedo explains.

Because of this, Macedo says it’s super compatible with our bodies and works great as a balancing treatment — whether you have an oily or dry scalp.

While its proven benefits mainly revolve around its help with scalp health, jojoba oil can also strengthen and moisturize hair. However, it’s not the go-to pick for improving hair loss (that’s usually minoxidil).

Moisturizes, shines, and balances

If you’re dealing with dryness, jojoba oil is fantastic for adding moisture to your scalp,” Macedo says.

“Its natural hydrating properties help restore balance, leaving everything healthier and more manageable.”

Plus, it adds hella shine.

Helps with dandruff

“Jojoba oil has been known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its conditioning and emollient properties,” says Kseniya Kobets, MD, board-certified dermatologist and Director of Cosmetics Dermatology at Montefiore Einstein Advanced Care.

These properties help out with dry, irritating dandruff.

This also explains jojoba oil‘s Mexican Indian history as a treatment for sores, which eventually caused researchers to flag its potential for improving skin conditions like acne and psoriasis (but please see a dermatologist for proven treatment options).

Strengthens and prevents breakage

Though many say that jojoba oil grows hair, this claim is probably tossed around because it helps moisturize hair follicles — which can keep dryness at bay.

A dry environment can be a breeding ground for breakage, hair loss, and dandruff.

Also, your split ends say hello — jojoba oil can help by restoring hair health overall.

Helps oily scalps too

“If your scalp gets oily quickly after washing,” Macedo says, “It could be because your scalp is overcompensating, thinking it doesn’t have enough moisture and needs to produce more oil.”

She says adding jojoba oil helps signal to your scalp that it has enough, which can slow down excess oil production.

How to use jojoba for hair

Although you can apply jojoba oil to the length and tips of your hair, Macedo says she prefers to use it only for the scalp, saying that other oils, like argan oil, will work better for the length.

Here;s how Macedo recommends using jojoba oil:

1. Massage a few drops of jojoba oil directly onto your scalp to help balance oil production and moisturize.
2. Leave it in for at least 30 minutes before rinsing, or for a more intensive treatment, leave it overnight.
3. Combine jojoba oil with rosemary oil for a booster hair mask.

You can also buy shampoos or conditions that already have it!

FAQs

Is it better to put jojoba oil on wet or dry hair?

Macedo says you can apply jojoba oil to wet or dry hair, depending on your goal.

“If you want to lock in moisture and add shine, you can try applying it to damp hair.” However, she doesn’t recommend this because it’s easy to accidentally apply too much or distribute it unevenly on wet hair, which she says can leave your hair feeling heavy and greasy.

“Applying it to dry hair reduces frizz and adds a light shine to styled hair,” she suggests.

How long can you leave jojoba oil in your hair?

Kobets recommends using oils overnight for extended exposure. However, she points out this can get messy (RIP pillowcases), so you can always apply them for a few hours and wash them off before bed.

Macedo also suggests being mindful of the amount you use — too much can make your hair look greasy, especially true for fine hair. “For a lightweight finish, start with a small amount and focus on the ends of your hair. But again, I’d recommend jojoba oil for the scalp and argan oil for the hair,” Macedo adds.

Should you wash your hair before or after jojoba oil?

“If you’re using jojoba oil as a pre-wash treatment to balance scalp oil or as a deep conditioner, apply it before washing,” Macedo explains. “If you’re using it as a leave-in conditioner or frizz-tamer, you can apply it to freshly washed hair — careful not to apply too much.”

Kobets suggests washing the scalp after using oils, noting that her patients don’t always prefer to use them because they can reduce hair volume for some.

Can you leave jojoba oil in your hair without washing it?

Kobets says that someone with a dehydrated scalp and coarse hair may want to leave the oil in to hydrate the scalp better. “People with fine or oily scalps usually want to wash the oils out,” she adds.  

Takeaway

Jojoba oil is a natural moisturizing ingredient known for improving scalp health. It can also add shine and help strengthen your locks.

It’s not the move for improving hair loss, however.

Do a patch test to make sure you aren’t allergic first! Then you’re good to glow.

Key takeaways

• Deodorant allergies happen when your skin reacts to ingredients like fragrances, alcohol, aluminum compounds, parabens, baking soda, or essential oils. Symptoms include redness, itching, rash, swelling, or blisters.
• To treat a deodorant rash, stop using the product immediately, wash your underarms with mild soap, and apply hydrocortisone cream or aloe vera gel to soothe irritation.
• Once your skin heals, switch to a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free deodorant made for sensitive skin, or try cornstarch or baby powder as a gentler alternative.

Deodorant is usually your daily hero, keeping you fresh and confident. But what if it starts causing a red, itchy rash instead?

Before you ditch the deodorant, let’s explore what might be irritating. Is it the ingredients? Are you using too much? Read on to find out how to keep your underarms happy and rash-free.

What is a deodorant allergy?

You’re just out of the shower and swiping on your favorite deodorant, expecting to stay fresh all day, but instead, your underarms decide to throw a tantrum. That’s a deodorant allergy in action! 

It happens when your skin decides it’s not a fan of one or more ingredients in your deodorant or antiperspirant. The result? Redness, itching, swelling, or even a painful rash that makes you wish you’d just gone au naturel. 

While deodorants are supposed to be your BFF in the battle against body odor, they sometimes bring some unfriendly side effects, thanks to certain chemicals and fragrances that can turn your pits into an itchy nightmare.

Deodorant allergy symptoms

Here’s what to watch out for if you suspect your deodorant is causing an allergic reaction:

• Redness or discoloration and swelling. Your skin may appear inflamed or swollen where the deodorant was applied.
• Itching or burning. A common symptom that can range from mild discomfort to severe irritation.
• Rash or hives. Small, red bumps or larger welts may form, irritating your underarms.
• Dry, flaky skin. The affected area may become dry and start to peel.
• Blisters. In more severe cases, blisters filled with fluid can develop, adding to the discomfort.

What ingredients in deodorant cause allergic reactions?

Certain deodorant ingredients are more likely to trigger allergic reactions if you have sensitive skin. Here are some common culprits:

• Fragrances. Synthetic scents are often added to deodorants to keep you smelling fresh, but these fragrances are a leading cause of allergic reactions. 
• Alcohol. Commonly found in antiperspirants, alcohol helps to dry out the skin and prevent sweating. However, it can also strip away natural oils, leaving the skin dry, irritated, and more prone to allergic reactions.
• Aluminum compounds. Used in antiperspirants to block sweat glands, aluminum compounds can cause irritation or allergic reactions for peeps with sensitive skin.
• Parabens. These preservatives extend the shelf life of cosmetics but can lead to skin sensitivity or allergic reactions. They’re known to disrupt hormone function, further aggravating sensitive skin.
• Baking soda. Found in many natural deodorants, baking soda is used for its odor-neutralizing properties. However, its alkaline nature can be too harsh for sensitive skin, leading to irritation, dryness, or a rash.
• Essential oils. While natural and often considered gentle, some essential oils can still cause allergic reactions, particularly for more sensitive folks. Oils like tea tree, lavender, and peppermint can be irritating or cause contact dermatitis.

How to treat a deodorant allergy

If you suspect your deodorant is causing an allergic reaction, here’s how to treat it:

• Ditch the culprit. First things first, stop using that deodorant immediately. Toss it in the trash — or at least banish it to the back of the cabinet. Continuing to use it will only make your skin angrier, so let’s not go there.
• Clean it up. Wash your underarms with mild, fragrance-free soap and lukewarm water to remove leftover residue. Don’t scrub like you’re sanding wood — just a soft, soothing cleanse to help clear away the irritants.
• Soothe the burn. Grab some over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to calm that fiery rash, or go all-natural with some aloe vera gel to cool things down. Your skin needs some TLC, so slather on whatever works best for you.
• Detox those pits. Ever heard of an armpit detox? It’s a thing, and it can help get rid of any residual nasties. Mix some bentonite clay with water or good old apple cider vinegar, plop it on your pits, and let it sit for 10-15 minutes. Rinse off, and your underarms will be feeling fresh and clean.
• Switch to something gentler. Once your skin has calmed down, it’s time to find a new deodorant BFF. Look for something hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and made for sensitive skin, or use a light dusting of cornstarch or baby powder to keep things dry without causing more drama.

Takeaway

Deodorants may cause an uncomfortable underarm rash if you have sensitive skin or are allergic to one or more ingredients. 

If your pits are unhappy, stop using the deodorant, soothe your skin, and give your pits a break. Once they’ve recovered, look for a more gentle alternative to keep you dry and delighted without the unwanted side effects.

Key takeaways

• Magnesium may support weight management by helping regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, reducing inflammation, and improving sleep quality.
• The recommended dietary allowance for magnesium is 400 to 420 milligrams (mg) per day for adults assigned male at birth and 310 to 320 mg per day for adults assigned female at birth. No specific dose is prescribed for fat loss.
• It’s best to get magnesium from whole foods like leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. If you take supplements, some forms like magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide may cause diarrhea or stomach upset.

Magnesium is found in fatty fish, leafy greens, whole grains — and the supplement aisle.

The mighty mineral plays many essential roles in our bodies, but can it help tighten the belt buckle?

We checked in with a doctor to find out.

Does magnesium support weight loss?

While magnesium can sneakily support weight loss in a few ways, that’s not its main gig.

“Magnesium alone is not a magic bullet for weight loss,” says Paunel Vukasinov, MD, a dual board-certified internist and obesity medicine specialist with Medical Offices of Manhattan.

“A comprehensive approach including diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes are essential,” Vukasinov adds.

Here are a few ways magnesium may support weight loss, as explained by Vukasinov.

• Regulates blood sugar: Magnesium can help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, which Vukasinov says can reduce cravings and stabilize energy levels, making it easier to maintain a healthy diet.
• Works as an anti-inflammatory: “Chronic inflammation is associated with obesity,” Vukasinov says. “Magnesium has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to improved weight management.”
• Improves sleep: Poor sleep is linked to weight gain, so by getting you some better ZZZs, magnesium can help support a healthy weight.

Is magnesium an appetite suppressant?

“Magnesium is not classified as an appetite suppressant,” Vukasinov says.

“However, by potentially stabilizing blood sugar and insulin levels, magnesium may reduce cravings and help prevent overeating. This effect can indirectly support weight loss.”

How much magnesium should I take a day to lose fat?

Vukasinov reminds us that no specific magnesium dosage is prescribed solely for fat loss.

With that in mind, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for magnesium is:

• 400-420 mg per day for adults assigned male at birth
• 310-320 mg per day for adults assigned female at birth

Vukasinov says that sticking to the RDA ensures you meet your body’s needs without over-supplementing.

“Excessive intake does not enhance weight loss and may lead to adverse effects,” he adds.

Magnesium supplements vs. food

According to Vukasinov, it’s best to get magnesium from food since a nutrient-dense diet, including whole foods, boosts your intake of other extra essentials like fiber, which improves overall health.

Here are some foods you can gobble up for the most magnesium:

• leafy green vegetables (especially spinach)
• legumes (black beans, lentils)
• whole grains (quinoa)
• milk and yogurt
• nuts (especially almonds, cashews, and peanuts)
• chia seeds, pumpkin seeds
• brown rice
• potatoes with the skin on
• bananas
• peanut butter

If you know your diet isn’t cutting it, you can find magnesium supplements at major retailers, like Wal-Mart and Target, drug stores, or Amazon.

PSA: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not check the safety or effectiveness of dietary supplements, so it’s important to choose a reputable brand that undertakes third-party testing to prove the purity and quality of their products.

What are the side effects of magnesium supplements?

For some, magnesium supplements may cause a few unsavory side effects, including diarrhea, stomach upset, or cramping.

Remember that there are many forms of magnesium. Vukasinov points out that magnesium citrate or magnesium oxide can have a laxative effect (yikes).

Be sure you’re taking the best dose based on your RDA, and consider taking it with a meal to better avoid side effects.

Takeaway

Magnesium is not a miracle solution for weight loss, but getting enough of it can ensure that your body produces enough energy and gets enough sleep — both play a big hand in weight management.

Taking too much will have you gripping your belly with stomach pain or diarrhea, so stick to the daily recommended amounts.

Key takeaways

• Side stitches, also called exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP), affect up to 70% of runners each year. Experts think they may be caused by breathing patterns irritating the phrenic nerve, blood flow around the diaphragm, or poor posture.
• To ease a side stitch during a run, slow down, stretch by raising your arms overhead and leaning to the opposite side, or apply gentle pressure to the cramped area while breathing deeply.
• Prevention strategies include practicing mindful breathing during exercise, avoiding large meals or beverages a couple of hours before running, working on your posture and core strength, staying hydrated, and gradually increasing your speed rather than starting with a sprint.

Side stitch, stomach cramp, side ache — whatever you wanna call it, that mid-run pain in your tum can seriously *cramp* your runner’s high.

This pesky prob that plagues runners and athletes all over has a scientific name: Exercise-related transient abdominal pain (ETAP). Though experts don’t know exactly what causes it, they have some ideas and tips about how to stop it.

Before you double-over during your next marathon, here’s what to know.  

What is a side stitch?

That fateful stab in your side is most likely to happen during exercise where your upper bod says tight and upright for an extended period, such as when you run, jog, bike, hike, play soccer, etc.

This common prob has been around for ages — the first historical mention is from ancient Roman philosopher Pliny the Elder. Yet, scientists still haven’t reached a consensus on its exact cause. We know that it affects up to 70% of runners each year.

It’s also more likely to occur on the right side.  

What causes a side stitch?

A stiff spine or poor posture (according to older research from 2010) could contribute to side stitches – but TBH, the pros don’t know for sure.

According to a 2022 review, researchers also think a side stitch might be caused by your right foot hitting the ground while you breathe out, irritating a phrenic nerve. Researchers think this, in turn, may bother the lining of your abdomen (particularly on the lower right side). Since most people are right-foot dominant, this is one possible explanation.

Experts also theorize that it could be triggered by the boost of blood flow around the diaphragm when running.

Furthermore, fueling up before a big race is excellent — but eating or drinking large quantities right before running may boost your risk of getting a side stitch, anecdotal reports suggest.

How to treat a side stitch

When a side stitch strikes, don’t stress – there are steps you can take, including:

• Slowing down, which should help lend some immediate relief. When the pain subsides, you can slowly build your pace back up.
• Stretch it out by raising your arms overhead, leaning to the opposite side of the pain, and breathing deeply. That may open up your abdomen and offer some relief.
• Apply gentle pressure by pressing your palm into the cramp while breathing deeply.

How to prevent a side stitch

To stop a side stitch before it begins, here are some ideas FTW:

• Practice mindful workout breathing. According to a 2022 review, slower breathing during exercise might “trick” your bod into thinking the exercise is easier, increasing pleasant feelings and reducing stress. While the study doesn’t mention side cramps, it could be worth a try since stitches may be linked to blood flow surrounding the diaphragm.
• Avoid big meals or beverages a couple of hours before you run. Though experts don’t know for sure, too much food or liquid in your belly could potentially put extra pressure on your precious organs, leading to a cramp.
• Work on your posture. Proper posture can improve breath flow and running performance. Research from 2014 suggests building up your abs could help prevent side stitches.
• Stay hydrated to stay healthy in general and potentially prevent side stitches.
• Start slow and work your way up. When working out, starting small and gradually upping your challenge helps reduce the risk of injury. In the same way, gradually increasing your speed rather than diving straight into a sprint may also help reduce the risk of a side stitch.

When to see a doctor

Side stitches are usually harmless. But it’s always a good idea to visit a pro if you experience any of the following probs:

• Pain under your breastbone (higher upper than a side stitch) accompanied by difficulty catching your breath could indicate a heart or lung issue.
• Persistent pain after running could indicate a chronic condition.
• Severe or debilitating stomach pain or cramps could also signal a more serious condition.

Takeaway

Side stitches are a common issue and not typically the reason for concern. Though pros don’t know what causes them, they think issues with breathing, posture, or nerves may play a role.

Consider working on your running form or breathing to reduce the risk of experiencing a side stitch. Staying hydrated and avoiding huge meals pre-run may also help. Consider working with a physical therapist or personal trainer if your issues persist.

If you experience pain under your breastbone when running, visit a doctor asap.

Key takeaways

• Rucking — walking with a weighted backpack — builds strength and endurance while burning calories, making it an effective full-body workout that combines resistance training with cardiovascular exercise.
• Start with a backpack weighing 10% to 15% of your body weight, focusing on proper form with shoulders back and core engaged. Gradually increase weight and distance as your fitness improves.
• Rucking is accessible and time-efficient, requiring no gym membership or special equipment. You can do it anywhere while multitasking, like walking the dog or pushing a stroller.

Weightlifting isn’t the only way to build muscle. Rucking, or walking with a weighted backpack, is also highly effective. It’s easy to start, can be done anywhere, and helps build muscle, burn fat, and boost endurance.

Curious? Keep reading to discover why rucking might become your new favorite workout!

What is rucking?

Rucking is like taking your regular walk and cranking up the intensity with heavy cargo. It’s as simple as strapping on a weighted backpack (aka rucksack) and hitting the pavement, the trail, or wherever you like to roam. Originally dreamed up by the military to toughen up soldiers, rucking, or a rucksack march has, er, marched into civilian life as a killer workout. 

What makes it awesome? The extra weight transforms a casual stroll into a workout that means business. Plus, it’s customizable — you can load up as much or as little weight as you want, making it perfect for any fitness level. And the best part is that you can ruck just about anywhere. 

Benefits of rucking

Rucking isn’t just a walk in the park — it’s a powerful workout that packs a punch in all the right places. Here’s why rucking deserves a spot in your fitness routine:

Builds strength and endurance

Think of rucking as the ultimate multitasker for your body. It’s like lifting weights but with cardio to keep your heart pumping. 

As you lug that weighted backpack around, your legs, back, and core are putting in serious work, building strength, and endurance with every (weighted) step. 

Burns calories and promotes weight loss

Want to torch calories without the treadmill monotony? Rucking’s got you covered. The extra weight and steady movement combo turns your stroll into a calorie-burning machine. Perfect for shedding any additional pounds while keeping things interesting.

Improves posture and core stability

Carrying a weighted backpack helps your posture. Your core has to stay engaged to keep you balanced, which helps align your body and ward off injury. 

If you’ve had a baby, rucking can be a game-changer, helping combat the postural shifts of pregnancy and hauling around kids. Plus, it builds the functional strength you need for everyday life, like lifting groceries or wrangling toddlers.

Accessible and time-efficient

Rucking easily fits into a busy schedule. You don’t need special equipment beyond a sturdy backpack or a gym membership, and you can do it while multitasking — think walking the dog in the morning or pushing a stroller. Plus, the whole family can join in, making it a great way to combine fitness with family time.

Rucking tips for beginners

Starting rucking is easy, but here are some tips to help you get the most out of your rucks:

• Start light. Begin with a challenging but manageable weight, around 10 to 15% of your body weight.
• Choose the right backpack. A comfortable, sturdy bag with padded straps is essential to avoid strain and injury.
• Focus on form. Keep your shoulders back, engage your core, and maintain a steady pace.
• Increase gradually. As your strength and endurance improve, gradually increase the weight and distance.
• Stay consistent. Regular rucking sessions will help you build strength and endurance over time.

Safety tips

Rucking is generally safe, but here’s how to stay injury-free:

• Listen to your body. Lighten your load or take a break if you feel pain or discomfort.
• Warm up and cool down. Prepare your muscles for the workout and help them recover afterward.
• Stay hydrated. Carry water with you, especially on longer rucks.
• Wear supportive footwear. Good shoes can prevent foot and ankle injuries.
• Be mindful of your surroundings. Pay attention to the terrain, and avoid areas that could be hazardous.

FAQs

Does rucking build muscle?

Yes, rucking can help build muscle, especially in your legs, core, and back. The added weight provides resistance, similar to strength training.

What is the ideal weight for rucking?

Start with 10 to 15% of your body weight and adjust based on your comfort and fitness level. Heavier weights can affect your balance and stance, making injuries more likely. As you progress, you can gradually increase the weight.

Does rucking build traps?

Yes. Rucking forces your upper back and shoulder muscles to step up, giving your traps a solid workout as you carry the weight.

Is rucking good for you?

Ruck yes! Rucking is a low-impact, full-body workout that kicks butt.

Takeaway

Tell your boring walk on the treadmill to ruck off and trade it in for a waltz about with a weighted rucksack. Rucking could be the secret sauce your fitness routine has been missing, helping you build muscle, shed pounds, or get those steps in.

Key takeaways

• Building muscle on a vegetarian diet requires about 110 to 150 grams of protein daily (0.73 to 1 gram per pound of body weight), which you can get from tofu, tempeh, lentils, chickpeas, quinoa, nuts, seeds, eggs, and dairy.
• To maximize muscle growth, eat protein at each meal and snack roughly every 3 to 4 hours throughout the day while keeping an eye on your overall calorie and macronutrient balance.
• Consider adding plant-based protein powder and creatine supplements to support muscle building. You may also need B12 and iron supplementation, which can be harder to get enough of on a vegetarian diet.

First off, let’s clear up a myth: vegetarian bodybuilders are real! You don’t need chicken breasts or salmon to get ripped. Many vegetarian and vegan bodybuilders have shown you can build muscle and lean without meat.

It might be a bit trickier, but you can achieve great results with the proper planning and knowledge. So, get ready to learn how to master vegetarian bodybuilding!

4 Must-know tips for crushing it as a vegetarian bodybuilder

Building muscle on a vegetarian diet isn’t rocket science, but it requires some know-how. Here are some tips to keep you on track.

Tip 1: Prioritize protein (duh)

Let’s face it: protein is the MVP for muscle building and is even more critical when you’re vegetarian. Aim for around 1.6 – 2.2 g/kg/day. In other words, aim for 0.73 to 1 gram per pound of body weight per day. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, this would mean you should consume about 110 to 150 grams of protein each day.

If that seems like a lot, don’t fret — there’s a smorgasbord of plant-based proteins to fuel your workouts and keep those muscles fed. 

Instead of steak, chicken, and turkey, think of the following:

• tofu
• tempeh
• lentils
• chickpeas
• quinoa
• nuts
• seeds

And hey, don’t forget about dairy and eggs if you’re a lacto-ovo vegetarian. These can be total game-changers in your diet.

Tip 2: Eat frequently and mind your macros

If you’re serious about gains, it’s not just about what you eat but also how often you eat. 

Double-check that you get enough calories throughout the day to support muscle growth. Keep an eye on your macros — protein, carbs, and fats — because getting the balance right is crucial to maximizing your results.

For optimal muscle growth, it’s not just the total amount of protein you consume daily that matters but also how you distribute it throughout the day. To best support muscle growth and repair, aim to consume protein at each meal and snack, roughly every 3–4 hours. Your initial reference touches on this, but here are some additional resources for more information.

Tip 3: Get creative with your meals

Sure, chicken and rice are out, but who says vegetarian meals have to be boring? 

There’s a metric sh*t ton of delicious and protein-packed vegetarian recipes out there. Consider these options:

• lentil stews
• chickpea curries
• tempeh stir-fries
• quinoa bowls
• bean burgers
• tofu scrambles

Not only are these meals muscle-friendly, but they’ll also keep your taste buds happy. Win-win, right?

Tip 4: Supplement smartly

Sometimes, food alone might not cut it. That’s where supplements come in. There’s strong evidence that creatine supplementation helps with muscle building, and it offers even more benefits for vegan athletes compared to those who eat meat.

Consider adding a high-quality plant-based protein powder to your routine, especially after workouts when your body needs protein the most. 

Also, don’t forget about B12 and iron, which can be tricky to get enough of in a vegetarian diet. A good multivitamin can help fill in the gaps.

PSA: It’s important to note that the supplement industry is unregulated. That said, it’s best to recommend third-party verified brands with NSF or Informed Sport certification.

Vegetarian bodybuilding meal plan

Meal planning is crucial for any bodybuilder, but it’s essential when you’re going vegetarian. Here’s a sample day to give you some ideas:

• Breakfast. Oatmeal with almond butter, chia seeds, and a scoop of plant-based protein powder or a smoothie bowl with blended spinach, frozen berries, and a scoop of plant-based protein powder topped with granola and pumpkin seeds.
• Snack. Greek yogurt with mixed nuts and berries, apple slices with peanut butter, and a sprinkle of hemp seeds.
• Lunch. Lentil soup with a side of quinoa and steamed veggies or chickpea salad wrapped with whole-grain tortilla, mixed greens, and a side of roasted sweet potatoes
• Snack. Hummus with carrot sticks, whole grain crackers, edamame, and a small handful of almonds.
• Dinner. Tofu stir-fry with brown rice, mixed veggies, or stuffed bell peppers with black beans, quinoa, and roasted Brussels sprouts.
• Post-workout. Smoothie with banana, spinach, plant-based protein powder, almond milk or protein shake with frozen mango, kale, coconut water, and a scoop of plant-based protein powder.

What are the best protein sources for vegetarian bodybuilders?

When it comes to protein, variety is your best friend. Here are some of the top sources to include in your diet:

• Tofu and tempeh. These soy-based powerhouses are packed with protein and are super versatile in the kitchen.
• Lentils. Not only are they high in protein, but they’re also loaded with fiber, making them an excellent choice for staying full and satisfied.
• Chickpeas. Whether in hummus form or roasted as a snack, chickpeas are a tasty way to up your protein intake.
• Quinoa. This ancient grain is a complete protein and a fantastic source of carbs to fuel your workouts.
• Greek yogurt. Greek yogurt is a protein-rich breakfast or snack option.
• Eggs. This kitchen staple is a versatile, high-quality protein. Plus, they’re loaded with vitamin D and choline, which boost bone and brain health.

Takeaway

Who needs steak when you’ve got soy? With the right strategy, your vegetarian diet can fuel some serious gains. 

Replace meat proteins with a mix of tofu, lentils, and chickpeas, and bench-press those misconceptions right out of the gym.

Key takeaways

• Bumps inside your nose can develop from various causes, including pimples, nasal vestibulitis (bacterial infection of the nostril area), ingrown hairs, nasal polyps, or trauma from nose-picking.
• Most nose bumps can be managed at home with warm compresses, saline rinses, and avoiding nose-picking. Bacterial infections may need topical antibiotics like mupirocin, while nasal polyps may require steroid sprays.
• Visit a healthcare professional if the bump persists beyond a week, causes severe pain, obstructs breathing, or produces pus or blood.

There are many possible causes for bumps inside your nose — some as harmless as a pimple, others that might need more attention. It’s easy to imagine the worst, but the truth is usually less alarming.

If you’ve got a painful, annoying, or strange bump in your nose, keep reading to learn what it might be, whether it’s worth worrying about, and how to deal with it.

Bumps inside nose causes

So, what’s behind these bothersome nose bumps? Here are some common culprits:

Nasal vestibulitis

This is inflammation of the nasal vestibule, the area just inside your nostrils, often caused by bacterial infections. It can lead to painful, red bumps sensitive to the touch. Common triggers include frequent nose-picking, blowing too hard, or even plucking nose hairs.

Pimples

Like on your face, the pores inside your nose can become clogged with oil, dirt, and bacteria, leading to pimples. These can be painful and may swell, especially in such a sensitive area. 

Nasal polyps

Non-cancerous growths can develop in the nasal passages or sinus lining due to chronic inflammation, allergies, or infections. While they’re usually painless, larger polyps can cause blockages, leading to breathing difficulties, a reduced sense of smell, or recurrent sinus infections.

Infected ingrown hairs

When you pluck or trim nose hairs, the hair can sometimes grow back into the skin instead of out, causing an ingrown hair. If this becomes infected, it can result in a painful bump inside the nose.

Trauma

A bump can also form inside the nose due to trauma, such as a blow to the nose, or even from something as simple as aggressive nose-picking. The trauma can cause the tissue to swell or become bruised. In some cases, a hard bump may form as the tissue heals.

Cysts

Fluid-filled sacs that can form in your nose, usually harmless but sometimes uncomfortable.

Cartilage issues

A hard bump inside the nose might be due to problems with the cartilage, such as a deviated septum or cartilage overgrowth. 

Fibrous papules

Small, benign bumps that may appear on or in the nose are often mistaken for pimples but are fibrous tissue growths.

Symptoms

Wondering if that bump inside your nose is something serious? Here’s what to look out for:

• Pain or tenderness. Especially when touching or blowing your nose.
• Redness or swelling. Around the area of the bump.
• Discharge. You need to monitor the condition carefully to see if there’s any pus or blood.
• Difficulty breathing. If the bump is large enough, it might obstruct your airflow.
• Persistent bumps. Anything that doesn’t go away after a week should be checked out.

How to treat nose bumps

Ready to say goodbye to that pesky bump inside your nose? The proper treatment depends on what’s causing it, but here are some ideas to ease the discomfort and promote healing:

• Apply warm compresses. Apply gentle heat to the area to reduce swelling and promote drainage if it’s a pimple or infection.
• Use saline rinses. Keep your nasal passages clean with saline spray or a Neti pot.
• Avoid nose-picking. Seriously, just don’t. Not only is it eurgh, but it’s a significant cause of trauma and infection.
• Moisturize. Prevent dryness and cracking with a gentle, nose-safe moisturizer, especially in winter.
• Leave ingrown hairs alone. Let them resolve independently or see a doctor if they get infected.

Additionally, if you’re dealing with nasal polyps, a healthcare professional might prescribe steroid sprays to shrink them and reduce inflammation, making breathing easier. 

On the other hand, if a bacterial infection is the culprit, as in cases of nasal vestibulitis, your doc may recommend a topical antibiotic like mupirocin. This ointment is applied directly inside the nose to target the infection, reduce redness, and promote healing.

When to see a doctor

While most nose bumps aren’t a big deal, some need more attention. Here’s when to make that appointment:

• Persistent or recurring bumps. If it’s sticking around or keeps coming back, get it checked.
• Severe pain. Pain that doesn’t ease up with home treatments is a sign you need professional help.
• Obstruction. If a bump makes breathing hard, it’s time to see a doc.
• Discharge. Any pus, blood, or other discharge from the bump is a red flag.

Takeaway

Even the slightest bump inside your nose can be a major annoyance. Causes vary from harmless pimples to things that require more attention, like polyps.

Self-care measures can usually ease discomfort and speed healing, but if it’s super painful or worrying discharge, it’s time to sniff out professional help.

Key takeaways

• Text neck, also called tech neck, refers to neck pain and stiffness from looking down at your phone or device for too long. Symptoms can include dull aching or sharp pain, reduced range of motion, and tension headaches.
• Research hasn’t confirmed a direct link between device use and neck pain, as several studies found no connection. Neck discomfort can result from many factors, including genetics, weight, and posture habits.
• Gentle exercises like neck circles, side neck stretches, shoulder rolls, and chin tucks may help ease discomfort. Other helpful strategies include holding your device at eye level, taking regular breaks, and improving your posture.

Whether you’re caught up in doomscrolling or just checking your work emails, chances are you’re spending a lot of time on your phone. But all that screen time can lead to a pesky condition called “text neck.” Hunching over your device can leave you with some severe aches and pains.

So, hold your phone up to eye level and check out these easy tips to get rid of text neck fast!

What is text neck?

Also known as “tech neck,” text neck is a term coined by a chiropractor to describe the neck pain you might feel after spending too much time looking down at your phone.

Most of us check our phones with our heads tilted forward and down. When you do this for too long, the muscles in your neck get strained. The muscles in the back are overstretched, while the ones in the front are compressed.

Text neck symptoms

If you have text neck, here’s what you might be dealing with:

• Stiffness and difficulty moving your neck
• Dull aching or sharp, stabbing pain 
• Pain that radiates into your shoulders and arms
• Weak shoulder muscles
• Tension headaches from tight neck muscles

But don’t get bent out of shape about overusing your favorite device. There’s no solid proof that your phone habits are to blame for your neck woes. Several studies found no connection between using your device and having neck or shoulder pain.

You could get a sore neck from overusing your muscles for many other reasons, like genetic factors, weight issues, or bad posture. “Text neck” might be a term concocted by a chiropractor to get your business. But, hey, we’re not judging.

Exercises for text neck

To help ease text neck pain, try these simple exercises.

Neck circles

• While sitting, slowly rotate your head 360 degrees.
• Let your jaw slack as you roll backward, and be very gentle.
• Rotate your head clockwise five times, then counterclockwise five times.
• Again, go VERY slowly (like a full ten seconds for one rotation), and don’t force anything! 

Side neck stretch

• Take your right hand and reach over your head to the top of your left ear.
• Use the weight of your arm to guide your head toward your right shoulder very slowly. (Don’t engage your neck muscles at all!)
• Remember to breathe deeply, even if your armpits are ripe.
• When you feel discomfort, pause and breathe again, letting your head stay there for three full breaths.
• Gently remove your hand from your head and use it to push your head slowly back up to an upright position.
• Repeat on the left side. 

Shoulder rolls

• Slowly raise your shoulders.
• Without stopping, roll them back and down.
• Do 10 to 15 reps.
• Repeat the exercise, but roll your shoulders forward and down this time.
• Bonus: Rolling your shoulders will help with your dance moves and text neck.

Chin tucks

• Gently tuck your chin towards your chest, like you’re making a super sexy double chin. Bonus: Smile like Kristen Wiig while doing this part.
• Keep your head level — no tilting or bending!
• Hold that position for 5 seconds (or the length of a deep breath if counting isn’t your thing).
• Relax your neck and repeat.

Tech neck treatments

Aside from these cubicle-friendly exercises, here are some ideas to help keep text neck from being a regular pain in the y’know:

• Hold your phone, tablet, or device a bit higher to reduce your head and neck stress.
• Try yoga, pilates, or other activities that engage your core, lengthen your spine, and loosen up your neck.
• Take breaks from your phone, laptop, or any other device that might make you hunch over.
• Move around while you’re taking your break.
• Make sure you’re sitting up if you’re looking at your device. Good posture equals less pain.
• Try adding ergonomic products to your workstation, like wrist pads, footrests, or lumbar pillows for your chair.
• Apply ice or heat to the affected muscles.
• Stay hydrated.
• Treat yourself to regular messages.

Takeaway

“Text neck” is the popular term for the head and neck pain caused by hunching over your device for too long. But don’t throw away your beloved device just yet. More research is needed to link “text neck” to your tech time.

In the meantime, sit up straight and do gentle exercises like neck rolls, chin tucks, and shoulder rolls. To prevent text neck from hitting you up on the reg, take regular breaks from your phone and seek out habits that help lengthen and strengthen your body. Your neck will thank you!

Key takeaways

• Starvation mode, formally called adaptive thermogenesis or metabolic adaptation, happens when severe calorie restriction causes your metabolism to slow down to conserve energy. This can start within just a few days of restricting calories below 1,200 per day for women or 1,500 per day for men.
• Common symptoms include fatigue, hair loss, irritability, constipation, extreme hunger, feeling unusually cold, decreased muscle mass, and weight loss plateaus despite continued calorie restriction and exercise.
• To get out of starvation mode, add more nutrient-dense foods with fiber and protein to your diet, consider taking a temporary break from weight loss efforts, and incorporate resistance exercises like weightlifting to build muscle and increase your resting metabolic rate.

Cutting back on calories but not losing weight? You might wonder if you’ve gotten stuck in the twilight zone of so-called “starvation mode.”

Everyone from your personal trainer to your grandma may have warned you about this metabolic frenemy that keeps your body holding onto weight. But is starvation mode really a thing — or just an urban legend?   

What is starvation mode?

The concept of starvation mode is that when you restrict calories, your body has a “hold it right there” response. To prevent you from losing weight rapidly, your metabolism slows, conserving energy by reducing the calories it burns.

Research shows starvation mode — formally called adaptive thermogenesis or metabolic adaptation — is a legit phenomenon. It’s well documented that sometimes, the more weight you lose (and the more rapidly you do so), the more your body resists the process.

Evolutionarily speaking, this may be a holdover from when humans faced food scarcity and needed a mechanism for self-preservation. But in today’s world, starvation mode can be a frustrating roadblock to weight loss.

Symptoms of starvation mode

What does this metabolic hiccup look like? These symptoms may indicate that starvation mode is becoming a problem for your health:

• fatigue
• hair loss
• irritability
• constipation
• extreme hunger
• feeling unusually cold
• decreased muscle mass
• a weight loss plateau with no change in diet or exercise habits

How do you know if your body is in starvation mode?

Starvation mode isn’t the same thing as actual starving. In today’s modern food environment, true starvation is rare. If you’re eating regularly, you won’t experience life-threatening starvation.

However, your body might exhibit some of the same early signs as real starvation. These include the symptoms listed above.

Most commonly, though, starvation mode involves stalled weight loss. You may have hit the wall of adaptive thermogenesis when restricting calories and increasing physical activity without losing weight.  

How long until your body goes into starvation mode?

Getting into starvation mode can take just a few days, especially if those days involve severe calorie restriction.

So what counts as severe calorie restriction? Many experts advise not going below 1,200 calories per day for women and 1,500 calories per day for men unless supervised by a doctor. Anything below these numbers could land you in starvation mode faster.

How do I get my body out of starvation mode?

Fortunately, getting your body out of starvation mode isn’t complicated.

First, there’s the obvious solution: Eat a few more calories. But we don’t mean just any calories. By adding a few more nutrient-dense foods (especially those with fiber and protein), you may find weight loss becomes easier, not harder. Both of these nutrients have links to weight loss — so they might help you get out of starvation mode without gaining weight.

If you’re feeling extremely depleted, you might take a temporary break from a weight loss diet to replenish your nutrient stores.

Choosing the proper exercise could also bump you out of starvation mode. Resistance exercises like weightlifting, yoga, push-ups, squats, and others build muscle, which increases your metabolic rate.

According to a 2014 study, people who participated in a 9-month resistance exercise program increased their resting metabolic rate — aka how many calories they burned at rest — by an average of 5%.

When to see a doctor

Weight loss is a balancing act. It’s normal to experience physical and emotional ups and downs.

That said, it’s time to see a doctor if you’re noticing symptoms like extreme fatigue or lethargy, constipation that lasts more than a few days, sensitivity to cold, or unusual mood changes. Your healthcare team can help you hit the sweet spot of weight loss without lingering in starvation mode.

Takeaway

Despite its name, being in starvation mode doesn’t mean you’ll starve. Instead, it’s a state in which your body has adapted to your weight loss efforts, giving you pushback on how many calories it burns. With strategies like tweaking your calorie intake and adding strength training, you can get out of this mode and back on the path to sustained weight loss.

Key takeaways

• Yoga may support weight management by enhancing metabolism, building strength and flexibility, and burning calories. Research shows that practicing yoga at least twice a week can lead to weight loss, with one study finding an average loss of 7.5 pounds over 6 months.
• The practice encourages mindfulness, which can promote mindful eating and greater body awareness. Yoga may also improve body image, reduce stress-related binge eating, and boost self-esteem and motivation.
• To get started, set realistic goals like attending a beginner class twice a week or mastering a few basic poses. Pair your yoga practice with a balanced diet, cardio exercise, and sufficient sleep for best results.

Part of the beauty of yoga is its accessibility for everyone. Yoga practitioners come in all shapes and sizes and are hella modifiable. If you have overweight, there’s 100% a place for you in the world of downward dogs, crescent lunges, and resting pigeons.

Check out these benefits of yoga for overweight.

How yoga supports wellness

For wellness, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more holistic practice than yoga. Your physical and mental health can get a boost from busting out your mat.

Physical benefits

The limb-stretching, muscle-engaging, bodyweight-bearing nature of yoga has many physical benefits.

For starters, yoga may enhance your metabolism. An older study found that people who practiced had greater metabolic efficiency and lower weight than non-yogis.

It’s clear, too, that yoga’s combo of cardio and strength torches calories. A 160-pound person can burn around 180 calories per hour, popping in and out of poses. A 2021 study revealed that both Hatha and vinyasa yoga led to weight loss, with an average of 3.4 kilograms (7.5 pounds) lost over a 6-month.

Extra strength and flexibility are two other well-known upsides of the practice. Research shows that even sedentary folks can build these elements of fitness by taking up yoga. One study showed that, after 8 weeks of practicing at least twice a week (180 minutes), people with no prior yoga experience had greater muscle strength, endurance, flexibility, and cardio-respiratory fitness.

Mental benefits

On the surface, yoga might look like mere stretching — but the practice goes far beyond the physical. Yoga engages the mind in all sorts of ways that may have benefits for overweight.

By training your brain toward calm and focus, yoga sessions encourage mindfulness. A mindful outlook can have far-reaching effects in multiple areas of life, like promoting mindful eating and greater body awareness.

As a form of self-care, yoga can also promote a healthier body image. In a 2018 study, young adults who made it a habit reported higher satisfaction levels with their bodies. Better self-esteem and motivation have also been linked to the practice.

Then, too, yoga’s stress-relieving effects might follow you off the mat and into the dining room. Some research has found that people who do yoga binge eat less often.

Tips for getting started with yoga

Wanna get started with yoga but aren’t sure how? We got you.

It all starts with setting realistic goals and expectations. If you’ve never practiced before, you won’t be pretzel-ing yourself into challenging poses like scorpion or crow overnight — and that’s OK. Consider setting smaller, step-wise goals, such as attending a 30-minute class twice a week or mastering a few basic poses. Little by little, you’ll work your way up to a more advanced practice.

It’s also wise to select a class (or video) for beginners. Check your gym or yoga studio’s schedule for introductory sessions, and don’t be afraid to let an instructor know before class that you may need some modifications. Most are happy to provide adaptations to make the class a better experience for beginners.  

Meanwhile, if you’re pursuing a yoga practice for weight loss, remember to pair it with other healthy lifestyle practices for best results. Though stretching and holding poses burn calories, yoga might not take you to your weight loss goal alone. A balanced diet, cardio exercise, and sufficient sleep are other keys to achieving a healthy weight.

How to overcome challenges

Yoga stereotypes of scantily clad gym babes in impossible contortions might make you feel somewhat intimidated about in-person classes. If you’re concerned that a gym session will make you self-conscious, start with an at-home practice. (YouTube is a treasure trove of classes and instructors explicitly geared for people with overweight.) All by yourself in your living room, there’s no one to impress.

Or, if you’re up for in-person yoga, let your instructor know your needs again. Modifications are always possible.

No matter where you practice, credit yourself for showing up for your health. And, at the beginning of your session, don’t forget to set an intention you find motivating or encouraging, such as “I am caring for my body” or “I am worthy of love and respect.”

Let’s recap!

Overweight doesn’t have to be a barrier to taking up yoga. Start small, knowing that you’ll get more comfortable with each session. With all the physical and mental health benefits a yoga practice provides — and all the modifications that make it more accessible — it’s worth a try, regardless of weight.

Key takeaways

• Your rising sign reflects how others perceive you and how you approach new situations. It’s determined by the zodiac sign at the beginning of your First House at the exact moment of your birth.
• Your moon sign reveals your emotions, how you adapt to the world, and what you need to feel recharged. Unlike your rising sign, you can calculate it without knowing your precise birth time.
• To find your rising and moon signs, use an online birth chart calculator with your birth date, time, and place. Your sun sign only requires your birth date and represents your core individuality.

The sun sign is the *it girlie* of the “big three” elements in astrology.

But do you know about your moon sign and rising sign?

We chatted with an astrologer to understand what they are and how to calculate them.

What are the three star signs?

According to Olga Verkhotina — astrologer and personal coach — the big three in astrology are your three most significant chart elements:

• sun sign
• moon sign
• the ascendant (aka rising sign)

“While a natal chart contains so many more intricate details beyond just three elements, the big three is a way to determine the main highlights that make up your personality and overall temperament,” Verkhotina says.

What is a rising sign?

Verkhotina explains that a rising sign is the zodiac sign that falls at the beginning of your First House — basically, the beginning of your natal chart.

“The First House in astrology is associated with a person’s identity, individual activity, even their appearance, and the sign that houses that theme gives its characteristics,” she says.

“Knowing your rising sign describes the way others may perceive you, the way your behavior comes across, as well as how you approach new situations in life.”

How to figure out your rising sign

You’ll need: date, time and place of birth.

“Knowing the accurate time is important here because even 10 minutes can make a difference in the sign,” Verkhotina explains.

“Once you have the data, you can trust astrology software to calculate it for you. There are a lot of natal chart calculators online, so you can just search ‘rising sign calculator,'” Verkhotina says.

Pro tip: Verkhotina suggests reading horoscopes from your rising sign instead of your sun sign, saying it will likely give more personalized insights on which areas of your life might be impacted by current cosmic events.

What is a moon sign?

“A moon sign describes the position of the moon on the zodiac wheel at the moment of your birth,” Verkhotina says.

She explains that the moon in astrology symbolizes:

• your emotions
• the way you adapt to the outside world
• your behavior
• your approach to family
• what you need to feel recharged and rested

“The moon sign helps you better understand how these themes demonstrate themselves in your life,” Verkhotina says.

How to figure out your moon sign

Unlike the rising sign, you don’t have to have the precise time of birth to know your moon sign, although Verkhotina says it’s still recommended.

You can also use an online calculator to find your moon sign or refer to the ephemeris — a table showing the daily positions of planets.

What is a sun sign?

Verkhotina describes the sun sign as the most important planet in your chart.

“It’s the center of your vitality, your ego, consciousness, and individuality at its core. That’s why it’s the most commonly known element in astrology,” she says.

It represents the zodiac sign the sun was in at the time of your birth, which Verkhotina says gives your individuality certain qualities associated with its specific sign.

“It’s important to understand that although the sun is a huge element in astrology, it doesn’t cover the nuances of one’s character,” Verkhotina explains.

Instead, she says it just represents overall traits.

Verkhotina adds that the specifics of your character are covered in the rest of your astrological chart. “This is why sometimes no two leos are the same,” she says.

How to figure out your sun sign

This one is easy peasy — you don’t have to have your time or place of birth.

“The sun cycle is very similar every year, so you can look it up by the date, month and year of your birth. Each sign corresponds to a calendar date that year,” Verkhotina says.

12 astrological signs

Here’s each astro sign, in a nutshell, according to Verkhotina.

• Aries: Active, impulsive, quick, direct.
• Taurus: Persistent, stable, patient, enduring, cautious, slow.
• Gemini: Light, mobile, sociable, curious, quick-witted, resourceful, easily adaptable.
• Cancer: Emotional, sensitive, vulnerable, introverted.
• Leo: Generous, noble, passionate, bright, open, artistic, stubborn.
• Virgo: Rational, hardworking, diligent, caring, modest, economical, critical.
• Libra: Graceful, aestheticism, refined manners, tact, diplomacy.
• Scorpio: Tenacious, reserved, secretive, determined, witty.
• Sagittarius: Lively, active, enthusiastic, purposeful, able to see perspective.
• Capricorn: Strict, serious, disciplined, practical, prudent, conservative, organizer.
• Aquarius: Democratic, freedom-loving, idealistic, team player.
• Pisces: Loving, trusting, compassionate, sensitive, irrational, intuitive.

Takeaway 

Your sun sign is important, but your moon and rising signs add extra details.

Your rising sign reflects your identity and how others see you, while your moon sign reveals your emotions and behavior.

To find these signs, you can use online birth chart calculators. Just make sure you have your birth date and time handy for accurate results.

Key takeaways

• A strong dating profile ‘About Me’ section showcases your personality, passions, and values with specific details rather than generic statements. Highlight what makes you unique, like your favorite hiking trail or top films, to spark conversations.
• Keep your bio positive and engaging by painting a vivid picture of your life, sharing your aspirations, and ending with a question to encourage matches to reach out. Use humor and add a touch of mystery to leave them wanting more.
• Choose high-quality, authentic photos that include a mix of headshots, full-body shots, and activity images with genuine smiles. Avoid negativity, clichés, and oversharing personal details like your exact job location or home address.

You’ve swiped right and gotten matches, but it’s not working. It might be your profile that’s holding you back. With just seconds to make an impression, your “About Me” section is crucial. Think of it as your personal highlight reel—enticing and leaving them wanting more. If it’s not working its magic, you could be missing out.

Read on to learn how to turn that blank box into a captivating snapshot of your fabulous self.

What should I write in my dating profile? 

Your dating profile is your chance to show potential matches why you’re a catch. But what should you include? Since everyone is unique, think about what you bring to the table and what you’re looking for. Let’s break it down.

• Showcase your personality: Are you a quirky adventurer, a bookworm, or a foodie always on the hunt for the best taco in town? Share your passions and what makes you tick. Be authentic — people can spot a fake from a mile away.
• Be specific: Avoid generic statements like “I love to have fun” or “I enjoy hanging out.” Instead, get specific. Do you love hiking? Mention your fave trail. Are you a movie buff? Share your top films. Details increase relatability and spark conversations.
• Use humor: Humor is desirable! A witty one-liner or a playful anecdote can make your profile memorable. Just keep it light and fun — avoid heavy sarcasm or anything that might be misunderstood.
• Highlight what you want: Be clear! Do you want a serious relationship or a casual fling? Honesty attracts matches on the same page.
• Share a fun fact: Maybe you’ve traveled to 20 countries or once met a celeb in an unexpected place. These tidbits are great icebreakers.
• Stay positive: Focus on what you enjoy. Avoid negative statements or listing things you don’t like — it’s far too Debbie Downer. 

What is a good About Me for a dating app? 

Your “About Me” section is your dating profile’s elevator pitch. It’s gotta be snappy, sassy, and totally you. Here’s how to make that blurb irresistible:

• Create a vivid snapshot: Forget boring lists — paint a picture. Describe a typical weekend or a fave memory. 
• Share your aspirations: Talk about your dreams and goals. Are you working towards a marathon, planning to write a book, or desperately trying to master a new language? 
• Show your values: Highlight what’s important to you. Whether it’s pets, family, or personal growth, let folks see your core values to attract those on the same wavelength.
• Add a touch of mystery: Don’t spill all your secrets. Hint at a story or drop a tantalizing detail to leave them wanting more. It’s all about the tease. 
• Highlight recent adventures: Talk about your latest escapades. Recently back from backpacking in Bali? Tried skydiving? Anecdotes make great convo starters.
• Discuss cultural interests: What’s on your bookshelf or playlist? Share your faves as a bonding point. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to show off your personality.
• End with a question: A question like, “What’s the best book you’ve read this year?” or “Any travel tips for my next adventure?” encourages peeps to reach out.

Here are a couple of examples to get the ball rolling:

• “Bookworm by day, Netflix binge-watcher by night. I love curling up with a good novel or debating plot twists over a glass of wine. If you know a killer thriller or have a strong opinion on ‘Stranger Things,’ let’s chat!”
• “Aspiring chef with a passion for trying new recipes and hunting down the best food trucks. If you’re into food adventures and don’t mind a little kitchen chaos, swipe right and let’s cook up some fun together!”

What not to say on a dating app profile

 Avoid these common pitfalls to make sure your profile sends the right message:

• Negativity: Don’t focus on what you don’t want. Life satisfaction can be attractive!
• Desperation: You’re a catch, so avoid looking desperate!
• Clichés: Avoid overused phrases like “I live life to the fullest.”
• Personal deets: Keep things like your exact job location and home address private.
• Demands: Making too many specifications about who you’re looking for can seem rigid.

Best pictures to use for dating apps 

The photos you choose for your dating profile can make or break your online dating success. Here’s what attracts the most positive attention:

• High-quality photos: Clear, well-lit images are crucial.
• A variety of shots: Include a mix of headshots, full-body images, and activities.
• Authenticity: Photos should reflect your true self and lifestyle.
• Smiles go a long way: A genuine smile is very appealing!

Takeaway 

Nailing your “About Me” section is all about balance — showcasing your personality, values, and interests while keeping it fun and engaging. Little details can make all the difference. So keep it lighthearted and authentic, and you’ll attract matches who truly get you.

Key takeaways

• Dark green poop usually happens when you eat lots of leafy greens high in chlorophyll, consume foods with green dye, or when food moves through your digestive system too quickly for bile to fully break down.
• Antibiotics, iron supplements, and certain infections like Salmonella or Giardia can also turn your stool green by disrupting gut bacteria or speeding up digestion.
• Green poop is typically harmless and temporary. However, talk with a healthcare professional if it persists or comes with severe stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea.

Bum nuggets typically sport a classic brown, so glancing back into the loo and spying on greenish-colored poop can throw you for a loop.

Most of the time, green poop reflects a leafy diet or your body’s unique way of breaking things down. But if the green becomes a recurring (fecal) matter, it might be something else.

Continue reading to learn more about poop color, its meaning, and when it’s time to make an appointment with a healthcare provider.

What causes green poop?

Spotting green or another unexpected color in the toilet can be startling, but it’s more common than you might think. From dietary influences to your body’s digestion speed, several factors can change poop from earthy tones to other shades. Let’s check some out.

High chlorophyll intake

Are you chowing down on lots of green leafy veggies like spinach, kale, or broccoli? These foods are high in chlorophyll, which can dye your doodles green. Chlorophyll doesn’t always break down entirely before reaching your intestines, meaning it passes through your system and colors your stool green. 

Food coloring and additives

Have you ever had a St. Paddy’s Day-themed milkshake or a brightly colored cake? Artificial colors in foods and drinks can change poop from brown to green. It’s not magic! It’s just the dye in green food passing through your gut unchanged. 

Faster transit time

When your digestive system processes food too rapidly, it doesn’t allow for the full breakdown of bile, a yellow-green fluid that aids digestion. This often results in a greenish stool, especially during fast-moving episodes of diarrhea.

Antibiotics

Have you recently been taking antibiotics? These meds can reset your gut’s bacterial crew. Since these tiny critters play a big part in the shade of your stool, introducing antibiotics might cause green poop sometimes.

Medical issues

If you’ve had certain medical treatments, it can affect digestion and cause bright green poop. One example is graft-versus-host disease, which may occur with bone marrow transplants.  This tricky condition can bring about less-than-welcome guests, like diarrhea and green stool. It’s a clear signal from your body that things are out of sync.

Some uninvited microscopic guests like Salmonella bacteria, the water-loving mini parasite Giardia, and norovirus can also be a reason for your poop turning green. These critters can hustle your digestion at an unnaturally quick pace, turning your stool green as they disrupt your gut’s usual rhythm.

Why is baby poop green?

Babies can surprise you with a whole crayon box of poop colors, and green is definitely in the mix.

For infants, green stool might stem from the same factors as adults, like dietary changes. This includes adjustments when they start eating solids or changes in a parent’s diet if chestfeeding.

Another harmless cause could be ingesting a small amount of amniotic fluid in the womb. So, if you notice your little one sporting some spring grass-colored diapers, it’s usually no biggie.

When to see a doctor

If the green theme park in your toilet isn’t closing down, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like severe stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea, it might be time to call in the pros. Persistent changes in stool color may signal underlying health issues that need medical attention.

FAQs

What does dark green stool mean?

Dark green poop can result from eating lots of leafy greens or foods with green coloring. However, it can also indicate that food travels quickly through the digestive system.

Does dark green poop mean liver problems?

While liver issues can change stool color, they usually turn it pale or dark, not green. If you’re worried about liver health, look for pale or clay-colored stools instead.

Why is my poop dark green, and I haven’t eaten anything green?

If you haven’t been on a kale-eating spree, dark green poop might be from iron supplements or constipation remedies, which can also give poop a greenish tint.

What does it mean when your poop is dark?

Dark poop could be a sign of your diet or medications. However, if it’s black and tar-like, it might mean bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract. In that case, chatting with a healthcare professional is a must.

Takeaway

While green poop can def throw you through a loop, it’s usually not a sign of anything serious. It’s often your body’s way of dealing with what you eat or how fast you digest. So, unless it’s paired with other worrying symptoms, there’s probably no need to panic.

Key takeaways

• Dark green poop usually happens when you eat lots of leafy greens high in chlorophyll, consume foods with green dye, or when food moves through your digestive system too quickly for bile to fully break down.
• Antibiotics, iron supplements, and certain infections like Salmonella or Giardia can also turn your stool green by disrupting gut bacteria or speeding up digestion.
• Green poop is typically harmless and temporary. However, talk with a healthcare professional if it persists or comes with severe stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea.

Bum nuggets typically sport a classic brown, so glancing back into the loo and spying on greenish-colored poop can throw you for a loop.

Most of the time, green poop reflects a leafy diet or your body’s unique way of breaking things down. But if the green becomes a recurring (fecal) matter, it might be something else.

Continue reading to learn more about poop color, its meaning, and when it’s time to make an appointment with a healthcare provider.

What causes green poop?

Spotting green or another unexpected color in the toilet can be startling, but it’s more common than you might think. From dietary influences to your body’s digestion speed, several factors can change poop from earthy tones to other shades. Let’s check some out.

High chlorophyll intake

Are you chowing down on lots of green leafy veggies like spinach, kale, or broccoli? These foods are high in chlorophyll, which can dye your doodles green. Chlorophyll doesn’t always break down entirely before reaching your intestines, meaning it passes through your system and colors your stool green. 

Food coloring and additives

Have you ever had a St. Paddy’s Day-themed milkshake or a brightly colored cake? Artificial colors in foods and drinks can change poop from brown to green. It’s not magic! It’s just the dye in green food passing through your gut unchanged. 

Faster transit time

When your digestive system processes food too rapidly, it doesn’t allow for the full breakdown of bile, a yellow-green fluid that aids digestion. This often results in a greenish stool, especially during fast-moving episodes of diarrhea.

Antibiotics

Have you recently been taking antibiotics? These meds can reset your gut’s bacterial crew. Since these tiny critters play a big part in the shade of your stool, introducing antibiotics might cause green poop sometimes.

Medical issues

If you’ve had certain medical treatments, it can affect digestion and cause bright green poop. One example is graft-versus-host disease, which may occur with bone marrow transplants.  This tricky condition can bring about less-than-welcome guests, like diarrhea and green stool. It’s a clear signal from your body that things are out of sync.

Some uninvited microscopic guests like Salmonella bacteria, the water-loving mini parasite Giardia, and norovirus can also be a reason for your poop turning green. These critters can hustle your digestion at an unnaturally quick pace, turning your stool green as they disrupt your gut’s usual rhythm.

Why is baby poop green?

Babies can surprise you with a whole crayon box of poop colors, and green is definitely in the mix.

For infants, green stool might stem from the same factors as adults, like dietary changes. This includes adjustments when they start eating solids or changes in a parent’s diet if chestfeeding.

Another harmless cause could be ingesting a small amount of amniotic fluid in the womb. So, if you notice your little one sporting some spring grass-colored diapers, it’s usually no biggie.

When to see a doctor

If the green theme park in your toilet isn’t closing down, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms like severe stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea, it might be time to call in the pros. Persistent changes in stool color may signal underlying health issues that need medical attention.

FAQs

What does dark green stool mean?

Dark green poop can result from eating lots of leafy greens or foods with green coloring. However, it can also indicate that food travels quickly through the digestive system.

Does dark green poop mean liver problems?

While liver issues can change stool color, they usually turn it pale or dark, not green. If you’re worried about liver health, look for pale or clay-colored stools instead.

Why is my poop dark green, and I haven’t eaten anything green?

If you haven’t been on a kale-eating spree, dark green poop might be from iron supplements or constipation remedies, which can also give poop a greenish tint.

What does it mean when your poop is dark?

Dark poop could be a sign of your diet or medications. However, if it’s black and tar-like, it might mean bleeding in your upper gastrointestinal tract. In that case, chatting with a healthcare professional is a must.

Takeaway

While green poop can def throw you through a loop, it’s usually not a sign of anything serious. It’s often your body’s way of dealing with what you eat or how fast you digest. So, unless it’s paired with other worrying symptoms, there’s probably no need to panic.

Key takeaways

• Cracked lip corners, also called angular cheilitis, happen when saliva pools in the corners of your mouth (from drooling, smoking, or sleeping with your mouth open), allowing bacteria to grow and trigger inflammation.
• To heal cracked lip corners, apply an occlusive barrier like Vaseline or Aquaphor after moisturizing, stay hydrated, use a humidifier, and avoid licking your lips or exposing them to extreme temperatures.
• Most cases heal within a week with consistent care, but talk with a dermatologist if your lip corners become more painful, swollen, or don’t improve after a few days.

Smiling for selfies should be fun, not painful! If cracked lip corners or angular cheilitis make it hard to smile, eat, or kiss, don’t worry. Check out these tips to heal those cracks quickly. With some care and good habits, you’ll have pain-free, makeout-ready lips in no time. Say goodbye to angular cheilitis and hello to a happier smile!

6 tips to heal cracked lips fast

Barrier repair

The first step to healing your cracked lip corners quickly is to lock in any moisture. Reach for a product dermatologists call an occlusive, which creates a protective barrier that prevents your lip corners from getting drier. Vaseline, Aquafor, or CeraVe ointment are common occlusives that will help reduce cracking.

Moisturize

Dab a little coconut oil, olive oil, or fragrance-free moisturizer on the corners of your lips daily after you shower. Make it a daily habit, but don’t go overboard. A little dab will do. Allow your skin’s natural oils to build back up as the cracking fades. Bonus tip: Add the occlusive lip barrier after moisturizing.

Stay hydrated

Locking in moisture only works if you have enough moisture, so staying hydrated is key! Keep a refillable water bottle with you as your trusty sidekick. Sip on plain water throughout the day, or jazz it up with a splash of cucumber or another non-acidic flavor. Pro tip: Avoid lemon juice, which can irritate and sting sensitive skin.

Bonus: Staying hydrated will help your raw lip corners heal quicker and improve your skin’s overall health.

Get a humidifier

Have you noticed that moisture is a common theme here? Lend your lips a humid hand by sleeping with a humidifier beside your bed. Adding moisture to the air is especially helpful for your cracked lips during the winter or in hot, dry climates. Think about popping a small humidifier in your workspace or wherever you spend the most time.

Don’t lick your lips

It might seem like a quick fix to lick your lips to keep them moist, but that can make things worse. Saliva evaporates quickly, leaving a sticky residue that can attract bacteria and lead to infection. So, keep your tongue away from your lips and remember this: “Licking your lips will cause them to lickety-split.”

Avoid extreme temperatures

Whether from frigid cold or dry heat, your skin can lose water rapidly, causing cracking, flaking, discoloration, or swelling. So avoid jumping from a sweltering afternoon at the beach into a freezing cold movie theater.

Also, skip the hot showers or cold plunges for a bit. These types of rapid temperature changes will quickly dry out your lip corners. Bonus tip: Your lips can take a beating from the sun, so find a lip balm with SPF protection.

When to see a doctor

If your cracked lip corners don’t improve or become especially painful or swollen in a few days, it’s time to visit a board-certified dermatologist. If left untreated, angular cheilitis can last for years, leaving your lips discolored or scarred.

FYI: Angular cheilitis might not appear as clearly in people with darker skin. Instead of turning red, the affected skin may look pale and have a darker border.

What causes mouth splits in the corner?

Remember that lickety-split mantra? It’s for real. Saliva can get deposited in the corners of your lips for many reasons, like drooling, smoking, or sleeping with your mouth open due to some sniffles. Bacteria grows in those little saliva pools, triggering an inflammatory response that causes your lip corners to get irritated and crack. 

FAQs

How long do cracked lip corners take to heal?

Following these tips will make your lips feel better in about a week. Really bad cases of angular cheilitis can take a few weeks. Avoid smoking and eat a balanced diet to get faster results.

Does Vaseline help cracked lip corners?

As mentioned above, Vaseline and other occlusives help create a protective barrier over the cracked lip corners, which helps the healing process.

How do I get rid of angular cheilitis overnight?

You might have woken up with cracked lip corners, but you won’t be able to get rid of them overnight. Be patient and follow the tips above!

Takeaway

Say goodbye to painful cracked lip corners in about a week with these easy tips:

1. Apply a skin barrier like Aquaphor or Vaseline.
2. Use a fragrance-free moisturizer daily.
3. Stay hydrated and use a humidifier where you spend most of your time.
4. Avoid licking your lips or exposing them to extreme temperatures.

Talk to a dermatologist for customized care if your lip corners become red, swollen, or more painful after a few days.

Key takeaways

• 4A hair features tight, springy coils with a fine texture and loose curl pattern that forms S-shaped curls. It’s less dense than 4B and 4C hair types, making the curls more defined and delicate.
• Keep 4A hair moisturized with leave-in conditioners and weekly deep conditioning treatments, as its coily structure makes it hard for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. Look for products with shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin.
• Protective styles like braids, twists, and buns can help minimize breakage, and switching to satin or silk pillowcases reduces friction and frizz. Regular trims every 8 to 12 weeks help prevent split ends and keep curls healthy.

Understanding your hair type is key to achieving healthy, luscious curls. Hair types range from 1 to 4 — straight, wavy, curly, and coily — with type 4 being the curliest. Type 4A hair has a fine texture and loose curl pattern, forming springy coils that need special care to stay healthy and vibrant.

Knowing your hair type helps determine the best hair care routine. Caring for 4A hair is essential, whether you’re dealing with dryness or breakage or want to define your curls.

Let’s dive into the world of 4A hair and discover how to keep those curls popping.

What is 4A hair type?

Alright, curl friends, let’s break it down. Hair type falls into four main categories:

1. Type 1: Straight
2. Type 2: Wavy
3. Type 3: Curly
4. Type 4: Coily

Now, Type 4 hair is where things get seriously curly and coily. Within this category, we’ve got subtypes A, B, and C,

which refer to the width and density of your curls.

So, what’s the deal with 4A hair? 4A hair is the queen of the fine, loose curl pattern. It forms tight, springy coils that are like tiny, perfect S-shapes. These curls are less dense than their 4B and 4C cousins, making them more defined and delicate. Think of 4A hair as the Goldilocks of coily hair — not too tight, not too loose, but just right.

How to care for 4A hair

Your hair is unique and gorgeous, but it requires a bit of extra TLC to keep it looking its best. Here’s a straightforward guide to keeping your 4A hair moisturized, healthy, and thriving:

Moisturize regularly

4A hair tends to be dry as its coily structure makes it difficult for natural oils to travel down the hair shaft. Keeping it moisturized is essential, so incorporate a good leave-in conditioner into your daily shampooing routine. Use deep conditioning treatments weekly to replenish moisture and strengthen your curls.

Don’t forget scalp care, too! For maximum hydration, look for products with ingredients like shea butter, coconut oil, and glycerin.

Gentle detangling

4A hair is prone to tangles, so detangle gently to avoid breakage. Use a wide-tooth comb or your fingers to work through knots carefully. Start from the ends and work your way up to the roots, and always detangle when your hair is wet and coated with conditioner to provide slip and minimize damage.

Avoid heat

Heat styling tools can cause significant damage to 4A hair, leading to dryness, breakage, and loss of curl pattern. Minimize the use of blow dryers, flat irons, and curling wands. If you use heat, always apply a heat protectant spray first to shield your hair from high temperatures.

Pro tip: To maintain the health of your curls, opt for air-drying or styles that don’t require heat.

Protective styles

Protective styles like braids, twists, and buns can help reduce manipulation and minimize breakage. These styles tuck away your ends, protecting them from friction and environmental damage. 

Satin or silk pillowcases

Cotton pillowcases cause friction, which leads to frizz and breakage, especially for 4A hair. Switching to satin or silk pillowcases instead helps mai

ntain your curl pattern and prevent tangles. 

Regular trims

Regular trims are crucial for keeping 4A hair healthy and preventing split ends from traveling up the hair shaft. Aim to trim your hair every 8-12 weeks to remove damaged ends and keep your curls looking fresh and vibrant. 

FAQs

Is 4A hair curly?

Yes, 4A hair is curly and falls under the coily category. It features tight, springy curls that form an S-shape.

Is my hair 4A, 4B, 4C, or 3C?

To determine your hair type, look at the curl pattern, texture, and density. 4A hair has a loose curl pattern with fine, springy coils, while 4B and 4C hair have tighter curls. 3C hair is curly but not as tight as Type 4.

How often should you wash 4A hair?

Washing once a week or every two weeks is generally sufficient for 4A hair. Overwashing can strip the hair of its natural oils.

How often should you cut 4A hair?

Regular trims every 8-12 weeks help keep 4A hair healthy by removing split ends and preventing breakage.

Takeaway

Taking care of your 4A hair isn’t rocket science, but it does need a little know-how and the right tools. 

Love those natural curls — keep them hydrated, avoid excessive heat, and give them some nighttime TLC.

Key takeaways

• Nopales, the edible pads of the prickly pear cactus, contain antioxidants like ascorbic acid and phenolics that may help fight inflammation in your body.
• Research suggests nopales may help manage blood sugar levels, though evidence is mixed. A small study found lower blood sugar after eating nopales with a high-carb meal, but larger reviews note insufficient evidence for diabetes prevention.
• You can eat fresh nopales by boiling, grilling, or sautéing them, drink prickly pear juice, or take supplements containing 500 to 650 milligrams per day. Some people may experience mild nausea, diarrhea, or fullness when starting out.

Looking at a cactus with its threatening spikes and tough skin, you might not immediately think, “Yep, that’s a thing I could eat.” But guess what? Some forms of cacti are edible, tasty, and quite good for you!

Check out why it might be a good idea to pal around with nopales, the pads of the prickly pear cactus.

What is a nopal cactus?

The nopal cactus, also known as the prickly pear or the opuntia, is a shrub-like, flowering cactus native to parts of Mexico, Arizona, the Mediterranean, Australia, and other desert regions. It might be recognized by its multitude of connected pads with flowering blooms. (A pad in bloom looks a little like a flat, green paw.)

Nopales flowers are filled with a viscous, seeded substance often used in jams, jellies, pies, cakes, and other sweets. But the stems, leaves, and entire pad (with spines removed, obvs) are also edible. Traditional Mexican preparations include boiling, grilling, and sautéing.

Benefits of nopales cactus

Science is still examining the possible benefits of nopales, so some touted wellness perks are fairly tentative. Here’s a look at what we know about these desert fruits.

Has anti-inflammatory properties

Almost any time you see bright colors in edible fruits, it’s a sign they contain antioxidants. This is def true for Nopales!

Older studies have found that the fruit inside their flowers is rich in antioxidants like ascorbic acid, phenolics, and a mixture of betacyanin and betaxanthin. These compounds help fight inflammation by kicking harmful free radicals out of your cells.

Might improve joint mobility

Since they combat inflammation, the antioxidants in prickly pear could improve joint mobility. In a 2020 study, people who drank 3 ounces of prickly pear juice daily for 8 weeks had better range of motion and greater ease with daily activities than a control group who drank a placebo.

Could help manage blood sugar

Research suggests nopales may help steady blood sugar. A 2014 study found that people with type 2 diabetes who ate nopales with a high-carb breakfast had significantly lower blood sugar and insulin levels compared to those who didn’t. However, this study only included 14 participants.

In 2019, a larger systematic review assessed the fruit’s potential for blood sugar regulation. While it found insufficient evidence to support using nopales to reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, the authors noted it might significantly reduce blood glucose levels.

Could support liver health

Showing your liver some love might involve adding nopales (or a glass of nopal juice) to your diet. According to research from 2023, this has to do with prickly pear’s effects on triglycerides. By helping reduce triglyceride accumulation, nopales could relieve stress on the liver.

Contains electrolytes

Whether you’ve overdone it on booze or are down with a stomach bug, it’s important to rehydrate with a drink that contains electrolytes. Consider prickly pear juice as your back-on-the-wagon beverage. It’s got potassium, magnesium, and calcium to help rebalance your electrolyte levels.

Forms and doses of nopal cactus

If you can track down fresh nopales where you live, cooking it yourself is a fun (if somewhat complicated) way to take advantage of its benefits. If not, look for prickly pear products, such as juices, being sure to check for added sugars.

You can also take a supplement. Nopales supplements typically contain 500-650 milligrams (mg) per day.

Nopal cactus side effects

While a prickly pear smoothie or nopales salad can be a healthy addition to your diet, consuming this cactus fruit may have some less-than-desirable side effects, like:

• nausea
• mild diarrhea
• feeling full

If you’re new to nopales, take it slow at first to see how your body responds.

Takeaway

Don’t let the “prickly” in prickly pear keep you away from this desert gem. When prepared correctly, nopales are unique, nutritious food. Check ’em out when your fruit basket needs something a little different.

Key takeaways

• Loose neck skin, sometimes called “turkey neck,” can result from aging, genetics, sun damage, weight changes, weak neck muscles, or smoking.
• Neck exercises like puckering, chewing motions, neck sit-ups, and facial yoga moves may help strengthen and tone the muscles under loose skin, but they can’t eliminate excess skin itself.
• For more significant tightening of loose neck skin, cosmetic procedures like surgical neck lifts, laser treatments, Botox, or specialized neck creams tend to offer better results than exercise alone.

We’re not in love with the term “turkey neck” — it’s just extra skin.

If you don’t want to learn to love the extra chin you’re in (though we wish you would!), you can perform some exercises that may tighten your neck muscles.

9 ways to tighten sagging neck skin

Though some swear these moves work, there’s no research backing them up, and they can’t zap away extra flowy skin.

Instead, they’re more likely to help strengthen the muscles underneath loose neck skin. Unfortunately, skin removal is usually accomplished with more intense methods, like surgery.

However, these popular neck exercises are simple enough for a test drive and may help tone your neck muscles naturally.

1. Pucker up

1. Sit comfortably in a chair, back straight.
2. Tilt your head all the way back, chin fully tipped to the sky.
3. Pucker up nice and big, like you’re giving a selfie duck face or are fully making out with your invisible crush. If it helps, miming “mwah” with your mouth or saying that sound out loud in an exaggerated facial movement will get the job done.
4. Repeat up to 20 times if it’s not too uncomfortable.

2. Get chewy

1. Get in a comfortable sitting position with a straight back again.
2. Gently let your head fall all the way back and aim your chin up toward the ceiling.
3. With your mouth fully closed, move it around like you do when chewing a particularly gummy meal, just remember to keep both lips closed.
4. Perform this fake chewing sesh about 20 times if you can.

3. Sit-ups for your neck

1. Get in bed and lay flat, with your head hovering over its edge.
2. Bring your head up toward the ceiling with slow and intentional movement, engaging only your neck muscles.
3. Perform about 5 of these neck-ups if you can.
4. Remember to be gentle with this move. Though this neck lift exercise is simple, you don’t want to pull a neck muscle.

4. Frowning

1. Curl your mouth edges down into a big frown (if you’re unafraid of frown lines).
2. The more animated the movement, the better — you should feel some resistance.
3. Repeat a few times.

5. Facepalm

1. Put your palm on your forehead, like you’re Ben Affleck-level stressed out.
2. Try to drive your head into your hand, but don’t let your head move forward at all — like you’re holding yourself back from a fight.
3. Pause in this resistance for nearly 10 seconds.
4. Using both hands, hold the back of your head.
5. Using your neck, push backward, pausing for 10 seconds.

6. Chin to chest (neck flexion)

1. Stand straight, arms by your sides, core engaged.
2. Bring your chin to your chest while bringing your shoulders back and down behind you.
3. Pause here for 30 seconds before performing a handful of times.

7. Fish face

1. Take a nice deep breath.
2. After the exhale, suck in your cheeks as much as you can so your lips are absolutely puckered out.
3. Keep this look for 5 seconds or longer before performing it up to 10 times.

8. Baby bird facial yoga

1. Push your tongue tip through the top of your mouth as much as you can while smiling.
2. Keeping that tongue smile secure, look all the way up to the ceiling 10 times.

9. Closed mouth smile

1. Grin as wide as you can with a shut mouth.
2. Keep your lips as close to your teeth as much as you can so that your lips tighten.
3. Cheese nice and big like this for 5 seconds or so, and repeat up to 10 times (or until uncomfortable).

What causes a saggy neck?

Causes behind turkey neck can include:

• extra weight
• genetics
• sun damage
• the hands of time
• weak neck muscles
• smoking

FAQs

Can you tighten neck skin with exercise?

Exercise may be possible to tighten up a turkey neck, but it doesn’t eliminate loose skin like surgery or lasers.

Can you tighten loose skin on your neck?

Yes. Certain cosmetic products and procedures — especially surgery — improve loose neck skin the best. These include surgical neck lifts, lasers, Botox, and certain neck creams.

Can you reverse a saggy neck?

Surgery and other cosmetic methods for turkey neck can offer impressive results.

How can I tighten my turkey neck naturally?

Are you not into cosmetic procedures or surgery? Neck-toning exercises and facial yoga movements may offer some improvement. However, loose skin is generally not tightened naturally.

Takeaway

Loose neck skin is normal (and honestly v common).

Still, these simple moves may result in toned neck muscles. Just be careful so you don’t wind up with an actual pain in the neck. If you can, it’s best to chat with a healthcare professional first.

Key takeaways

• Thai massage is an active bodywork practice that combines assisted yoga stretches, acupressure, and rhythmic rocking to boost flexibility and release tension throughout your body.
• Sessions take place on a floor mat while you’re fully clothed, with a certified therapist using their body weight to guide you through various stretches and postures for 60 to 90 minutes.
• You may feel some discomfort as your body stretches, especially during your first session, but you’ll likely leave feeling relaxed, more flexible, and energized.

Feeling stressed? Whether you unwind with yoga or a relaxing massage, Thai massage combines the best of both worlds, benefiting your mind and body. Here’s everything you need to know!

What is a Thai massage?

Thai massage is a special kind of bodywork that blends relaxation with flexibility. Think of it as a gentle, full-body, more active experience. It’s all about boosting your flexibility and energizing your body. Just a heads-up: napping during a Thai massage might be a challenge!

Drawing from Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, this ancient technique mixes assisted yoga stretches, acupressure, and soothing rocking for 60 to 90 minutes. Unlike Western-style massages at a local spa, Thai massage takes place on a mat on the floor. A certified therapist will work to stretch your muscles and apply pressure along your body’s energy lines, known as sen, to release stress with a graceful, rhythmic touch.

You can schedule a Thai massage at many spas, massage clinics, and even some yoga studios, but make sure you find someone with the proper training and certification to give you an authentic experience.

What should I expect from a Thai massage?

When you arrive for a Thai massage, you might be given some comfy clothes, like a T-shirt and drawstring pants. You’ll remove your shoes, silence your phone, place your jewelry in a small dish, and settle onto a floor mat. Before the session, let the therapist know if you have any injuries.

If this is your first session, it can be intense, so focus on breathing and relaxing. You’ll likely start on your back, with the therapist beginning on your feet and legs. Since the therapist uses their body weight to guide you, it might initially feel a bit weird. Some discomfort is normal as your body stretches, but don’t hesitate to let your therapist know if anything feels uncomfortable.

As the session progresses, you’ll likely switch positions, including flipping onto your belly or trying various other postures. Go with the flow as your therapist guides you through stretches and yoga-like moves designed to open up your joints, move your energy, and release tension. Keep breathing and communicate with your therapist throughout the process.

As the session wraps up, you’ll enjoy some gentle rocking motions to ease you out of the massage. You might feel sore afterward, especially if it’s your first Thai massage, so hydrate and rest. You’ll likely feel incredibly relaxed, more flexible, and energized.

How to prepare for Thai massage

Preparing for a Thai massage is simple!

• Eat a light meal and stay hydrated about an hour before your session.
• Avoid alcohol, coffee, or heavy meals to prevent indigestion, as you’ll be moving around a lot.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes that won’t restrict your movement, or ask your therapist if they provide them to ensure a comfortable experience.

Pro tip: Clear your mind and be open to guidance. While the stretches may feel awkward initially, allow yourself to let go. This can help you fully experience the massage’s benefits.

Thai massage vs. deep tissue massage

Your Thai massage experience won’t resemble a Western-style deep tissue massage. You won’t be naked under a sheet on a raised massage table, and the massage therapist won’t be using long, deep strokes to work your muscles.

The other significant difference is that, like some forms of yoga, Thai massage has a spiritual element based on Buddhism. As they use the weight of their bodies to work on your body, your therapist is also trained to send you kind, loving, healing vibes. The ultimate goal is to help you feel better by allowing your energy to flow throughout your body.

Takeaway

The ancient practice of Thai massage combines assisted yoga stretches, acupressure, and rhythmic rocking to unknot your body and get your inner energy flowing. Unlike Western massage techniques, you’ll be fully clothed on a floor mat, with the massage therapist using their entire body to release your tension.

Permit yourself to let go, and expect an active, sometimes intense, full-body experience that leaves you relaxed and energized.

Key takeaways

• Adapalene is a third-generation retinoid that speeds up cell turnover to help prevent clogged pores, while salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent that breaks down keratin to exfoliate dead skin cells and reduce inflammation.
• Research suggests adapalene may be more effective for comedonal acne (whiteheads and blackheads), while salicylic acid is less potent but more affordable. Both are available over-the-counter.
• Adapalene is generally more effective for wrinkles and anti-aging concerns because it stimulates collagen production. A dermatologist can help determine which treatment is best for your specific acne type and skin concerns.

If you have acne, you probably know more about skincare than most people. You might even impress friends with terms like “adapalene” and “salicylic acid.”

But do you know what each treatment does for your skin and if one is better for acne? Let’s find out!

Salicylic acid 101

Salicylic acid is a keratolytic agent commonly found in over-the-counter creams, face washes, masks, and gels. While it’s often used for acne, it can also help with dandruff, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis, calluses, and warts.

Adapalene 101

Adapalene, often known by its brand name Differin, is a topical retinoid. It comes in various forms, such as gels, cleansers, and creams. And just like salicylic acid, it’s available over-the-counter without a prescription.

Adapalene vs. salicylic acid: What’s the difference?

On a chemical level, adapalene and salicylic acid work in different ways to clear acne.

Salicylic acid breaks down a protein called keratin in the outer layer of the skin. Studies show this helps remove the buildup of dead skin cells. It also reduces inflammation in the skin, calming the redness that often comes with breakouts.

Adapalene, on the other hand, is a retinoid. And what, you may ask, is a retinoid? It’s a derivative of vitamin A that attaches to receptors in the skin. Doing so prompts cell turnover to speed up, helping skin regenerate more quickly and lowering the likelihood of clogged pores.

Acne: Adapalene vs. salicylic acid

So… what do these differences mean for acne? Both adapalene and salicylic acid can treat skin prone to breakouts (though it’s not recommended to use them together since this can over-irritate your skin).

Which one is more potent may depend on your acne type. Research shows that adapalene was among the best treatments for comedonal acne (aka whiteheads and blackheads), whereas salicylic acid was less effective and more affordable.

Long story short: Your dermatologist can help determine which is the smarter choice for your type of acne.

Blackheads: Adapalene vs. salicylic acid

Studies haven’t directly compared adapalene and salicylic acid for blackheads, but both can help. Blackheads form from plugged hair follicles, and salicylic acid’s exfoliating action can clear clogged pores. Adapalene increases cell turnover, which can also help remove blackheads.

Wrinkles: Adapalene vs. salicylic acid

Adapalene is a retinoid. Retinoids are well-established anti-aging agents because they stimulate new cell growth and promote collagen production. Some studies have also shown anti-aging benefits from salicylic acid.

While salicylic acid, due to its exfoliating properties, can help reduce wrinkles, adapalene is generally more effective for addressing aging-related concerns like wrinkles.

FAQs

What works better than adapalene?

Adapalene is an over-the-counter acne treatment — so prescription-strength options may work better. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, some of the most potent acne treatments include antibiotics and isotretinoin.

Is adapalene the best for acne?

Adapalene isn’t a magic wand for acne. It may be an ideal choice for some people, but depending on your skin type and sensitivity level, salicylic acid, other OTC products, or even a prescription treatment might be your best bet.

Is adapalene stronger than benzoyl peroxide?

Research shows that adapalene can be just as strong for zapping zits as benzoyl peroxide (another potentially powerful weapon in the battle against acne). A 2024 study, for example, found that 0.1% topical adapalene was as safe and effective as a 4% benzoyl peroxide solution in people of color.

Is adapalene the strongest retinoid?

Though adapalene may be an effective acne treatment, it’s not the pinnacle of retinoid strength. Of the four “generations” of retinoids, adapalene is considered third-generation. Fourth-generation retinoids are typically stronger and have higher specificity to retinoic acid receptors in the skin. For this reason, they’re available only by prescription.

Takeaway

Feel free to experiment with adapalene and salicylic acid to see which works best for you — after all, it’s your face! You might find one more effective for your skin. For expert advice, be sure to consult your dermatologist.

Nipples come in all shapes, including inverted ones. If yours are more like innies than outies, you’re not alone! Inverted nipples, also known as retracted or invaginated, are common and usually harmless.

Nipples can range from popping out when stimulated to constantly staying retracted. While usually harmless, knowing the causes and potential treatments is wise, especially if there’s discomfort. Keep reading to learn more!

What are inverted nipples?

Inverted nipples mean your chest cherries retract inward instead of protruding outward. They can be a genetic gift or something that happens over time. 

Often, they’re just doing their own thing, but understanding the different grades can help you know if action is warranted.

Grades of nipple inversion

Nipple inversion comes in three grades, according to the level of drama. Let’s break it down so you know what’s going on with those inward-facing nips.

Grade 1

Grade 1 inverted nipples are like the shy party guests who need a little encouragement to join the fun. They can pop out with stimulation, like a chilly breeze or a gentle touch. 

These are the least inverted and usually don’t cause any trouble. 

Grade 2

Grade 2 inverted nipples are a bit more stubborn. They can be coaxed out with some effort, but they’re quick to retreat. They might need a bit more attention, mainly if they cause discomfort or issues with breastfeeding. 

Grade 3

Grade 3 inverted nipples are the ultimate homebodies. They’re fully retracted and rarely, if ever, make an appearance. These are the most inverted and might need surgical intervention if they’re causing any issues. 

Causes of inverted nipples

So, why do some nipples decide to turn inward instead of standing out proudly? There are a few reasons this might happen:

Genetics

Sometimes, you’re born with inverted nipples. Doctors call this congenital inversion. 

If your parents or siblings have inverted nipples, there’s a higher chance you might too. It’s like inheriting your mom’s eye color or your dad’s knack for bad jokes — genetics is a big player. 

Chestfeeding

For some new parents, the process of chestfeeding can lead to changes in breast tissue that cause nipple inversion. Your boobs are trying to adjust to their new role, and sometimes, things get a little flipped around!

While this can be temporary, it may also stick around long term.

Other issues

There are a few other culprits that can cause nipples to go inward. These include:

• Trauma: Any injury to the breast area can lead to changes in nipple position.
• Infections: Certain infections can affect breast tissue and cause inversion.
• Medical conditions: Some conditions, like breast cancer, can cause nipple inversion. 

Remember, if your nipples decide to play hide-and-seek and it’s out of the blue, a quick chat with a healthcare professional is always wise to make sure everything’s A-OK. And if there’s pain, nipple discharge, itchy nipples, or bleeding nipples, do so sooner rather than later.

Inverted nipple treatments

Several options are available for treating nipple inversion: 

Manual techniques

Gentle manipulation and massage with your fingers can temporarily draw out the nipple.

While this method can help with mild cases (Grade 1), it often provides short-lasting results and needs to be repeated regularly.

Nipple shields

Useful for chestfeeding peeps! Nipple shields are soft, silicone covers that fit over the nipple and help coax the nipples outward, making nursing easier. 

They provide gentle and continuous pressure that encourages the nipple to protrude. 

Suction devices

These devices create a vacuum around the nipple, gently drawing it out gradually. They can be worn for several hours a day over weeks or months to achieve the desired result.

Surgery

For more severe cases (Grade 2 and 3), a minor surgical procedure can permanently correct nipple inversion. 

It involves making small incisions at the nipple’s base to release the tight tissue pulling inward. It’s usually done under local anesthesia and has a quick recovery time. 

FAQs

Do inverted nipples need to be fixed?

If they aren’t causing problems, there’s no medical reason to fix them. It’s a personal choice based on comfort and aesthetics.

Do inverted nipples come out when touched?

Grade 1 and sometimes Grade 2 nipples can pop out with stimulation. Grade 3 nipples typically don’t. They’re super shy!

Are inverted nipples inherited?

Yes, inverted nipples can be inherited. If family members have them, you might have them, too.

Takeaway

Inverted nipples are a common and typically harmless condition. They could run in the family, show up after breastfeeding, or result from an injury or infection. 

Often, they need no treatment. But if they cause issues or occur suddenly, it’s wise to check with a healthcare professional.

Key takeaways

• L-tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid your body makes naturally. It helps produce dopamine, adrenaline, norepinephrine, thyroid hormones, and melanin.
• Research suggests that L-tyrosine supplementation may improve memory, mental alertness, and cognitive performance, especially when you’re stressed and dopamine levels are reduced. However, evidence for treating depression or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remains limited and dated.
• Foods naturally high in tyrosine include cheese, soybeans, meat, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, beans, and whole grains. L-tyrosine supplements are generally considered safe, but avoid them if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), thyroid hormones, or levodopa.

L-tyrosine is an amino acid (AKA protein building block) that supports your body, from your muscles to your noggin.

It’s a non-essential amino acid, which means your body can make it on its own, so you don’t have to get it from food

That being said, consuming foods high in L-tyrosine or taking supplements could have extra cognitive and physical benefits – here’s what to know.  

What is L-tyrosine?

L-tyrosine is an amino acid that the body produces naturally. Though your bod can prob create enough of the stuff on its own, some research suggests that supplementing with it can boost your mood and help regulate your stress response.

L-tyrosine helps make many vital chemical messengers, such as:

• dopamine, the “feel good” chemical associated with pleasure, motivation, and reward
• adrenaline, your “fight or flight” hormone, which triggers you to act fast under stress
• norepinephrine, a hormone that helps with focus and alertness
• thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and energy
• melanin, which gives your skin, hair, and eyes its pigment

Supplementing with L-tyrosine is believed by some to boost levels of dopamine, adrenalin, and norepinephrine in particular.

Foods naturally high in tyrosine include:

• cheese
• soybeans
• beef
• lamb
• pork
• chicken
• fish
• nuts
• eggs
• dairy
• beans
• whole grains

Boost brainpower

L-tyrosine may improve your memory and mental alertness. Since L-tyrosine increases dopamine availability in your body, experts think it may boost your cognitive performance. In addition to reward centers, dopamine is linked to working memory processes and plays a key role in the brain’s aging process.

In a 2019 review of several studies, researchers found that a higher intake of L-tyrosine was linked to improved cognition. It also improved executive functions like brain flexibility, convergent thinking, and reasoning.

However, researchers noted that L-tyrosine is most effective when dopamine and norepinephrine levels are reduced (which basically means when you feel stressed AF).

Improve your mood

Some L-tyrosine supplement companies claim that their products are both mood boosters and antidepressants, but the results are mixed.

L-tyrosine increases dopamine, the feel-good hormone that’s linked to reward processing and also addiction. In general, it’s been shown to be a vital regulator of mood, behavior, and brainpower – so it makes sense that getting enough of it could benefit your mood, too.

However, the research on supplementation of tyrosine for depression is super dated, so it’s challenging to draw any definitive conclusions RN. (Plus, depression is also a super complex condition that involves more than just dopamine depletion.)

And though there are some people dubbing L-tyrosine “natural Adderall” for its purported beneficial effect on ADHD, so far, there’s no research to support these claims yet, either. (Though it *is* true that there seems to be a link between ADHD and altered dopamine levels.)

Amino acid link

Phenylketonuria is a rare genetic disorder in which the body can’t properly process another essential amino acid, phenylalanine.

Since those with the disorder may also be deficient in L-tyrosine, some experts think that supplementing with it could help relieve some symptoms like seizures or skin rashes.

However, according to a 2021 review of several studies, there is not enough evidence to say for sure.

Risks of L-tyrosine

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) considers taking L-tyrosine supplements generally safe.

That being said, it’s not recommended to mix with the following medications:

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
• thyroid hormones
• Levodopa (L-dopa)

It’s not advisable to take it if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

Takeaway

Research suggests that L-tyrosine supplementation likely benefits your brainpower under stress. It also may benefit conditions like depression, but more research is needed to know for sure.

Like any supplement, it is a good idea to contact your healthcare provider before adding it to your medicine cabinet, especially if you have preexisting health conditions or take medications.

If you’re caught without bug bite cream or ointment, don’t worry — plenty of simple home remedies can provide quick relief. From soothing aloe vera to the calming effects of oatmeal, discover easy solutions to alleviate itching and inflammation so you can sleep peacefully.

14 ways to treat mosquito bites overnight

• crushed ice
• heat
• aloe vera
• baking soda
• basil
• vinegar
• onion
• thyme
• peppermint oil
• lemon balm
• witch hazel
• arnica
• chamomile tea
• garlic

Crushed ice

Just as you’d ice an injury, icing a bug bite can help decrease inflammation and temporarily numb the pain.

Heat

If icy cold treatments aren’t your vibe, you can apply heat instead to soothe your bump.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera gel does more than soothe sunburns! It can also help ease bug bites and help them heal.

Baking soda

Baking soda can remove the itch. To make a paste, mix 1 tablespoon of it with a splash of water (not too much). Apply it to your bite as you would zit cream. Keep it on for 10 minutes before rinsing it off.

Basil

Did you know basil (yes, like the kind in your pasta) has a rich history as a skin infection remedy? It contains antioxidants that may bring down bug bite inflammation.

To whip up your own basil rub, boil a couple cups of water with 1/2 ounce of dried basil leaves. Cool the mixture before applying it to a washcloth and gently massaging it onto the bite for sweet relief.

Vinegar

You already know apple cider vinegar (fermented liquid from apples) is a huge player in the natural remedy world.

Some people use it to clean due to its antimicrobial effects, and others mix it into food or drinks for its possible health benefits (like helping with blood sugar issues).

Its beauty with bites is that it can help ease burning or stinging while disinfecting your scratchy little bump.

Onion

Onion juice (while not delicious) has antifungal and antibacterial properties, which could possibly help ward off infection. Plus, it could make your bite sting less. Just dab a bit of raw onion juice onto your bites. The downside? We’re not sure how well it works … and it’s kinda stinky.

Thyme

Thyme has been used to help with skin concerns for a long time. You can use it to help decrease irritation by chopping it up and applying the teeny leaves directly to your bite for 10 minutes. You can also boil thyme, soak a cloth in the cooled liquid, and wrap it around your bite.

Peppermint oil

Peppermint oil may work as an anti-itch agent. Mix it with carrier oil (like olive oil) before applying it to your skin, though!

Lemon balm

Another natural anti-itcher and astringent, lemon balm, may be helpful. You can either apply a lemon balm cream or chop up the leaves and apply them right to the bite.

Witch hazel

Witch hazel is a natural wonder with many uses for skin concerns such as acne and psoriasis. It can tackle inflammation and burning while helping your bug bite heal.

Arnica

This herb may work, but the science is a little dicey. On its own, arnica is toxic, so any over-the-counter products you find have been carefully diluted for your safety.

Chamomile tea

The yummy tea that calms and soothes at bedtime has many other uses, including potentially calming an irritated bug bite. Steep the tea bag for 20 minutes before squeezing it out and applying it to your bite once it’s cooled.

Garlic

Blend minced garlic with petroleum jelly or fragrance-free lotion. Place the mixture on your bite for 10 minutes before removing it and applying a cool cloth.

FAQs

How do you make mosquito bites go away immediately?

Icing the bite for 10 minutes and then placing a mixture of baking soda and water on it for 10 minutes is a strong choice.

What does Vicks VapoRub do to mosquito bites?

Though not tested for this purpose, some people turn to Vicks to soothe mosquito bites. It’s possible that its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties could help heal and soothe mosquito bites. But FYI, this product isn’t considered the best defense against mosquito bites.

What does toothpaste do to mosquito bites?

Some toothpastes are cooling, so that sensation may offer temporary relief. Some people use toothpaste on insect bites since many toothpastes contain astringents, which can help shrink tissues.

How do I stop mosquitoes from biting me?

Using repellent to prevent bug bites is a good idea. PSA: DEET and lemon eucalyptus oil are safe ways to repel insects.

Takeaway

Mosquitoes are low-key little monsters that cause the most insect bites worldwide. Most bites aren’t serious, but mosquitoes can potentially carry diseases.

Ointments, creams, or simple home remedies can help stop the pesky itch after bites. But remember that some natural substances can cause allergic reactions. That said, it’s always a good idea to do a patch test first.

Key takeaways

• A hickey is a bruise caused by intense kissing or sucking that breaks capillaries under your skin. It starts as a bright red or purple mark and gradually shifts through blue, green, brown, and yellow as your body breaks down and reabsorbs the blood.
• Most hickeys fade completely within 5 days to 2 weeks, depending on severity and your body’s healing process. You can speed up healing by applying cold packs for the first 48 hours, then switching to warm compresses to boost circulation.
• Comfrey ointment may help reduce bruise size and coloration. While hickeys are generally harmless, they can rarely lead to complications like skin infections or blood clots, so keeping affection gentle can help avoid issues.

Hickeys, or as scientists call them, subdermal hematomas, are love’s graffiti. If you’ve ever scrambled for scarves or turtlenecks, welcome to the kissing booth of knowledge! Join us as we navigate the lifecycle of hickeys, from their eye-catching start to their subtle fade, and learn how to speed up their departure.

What is a hickey?

A hickey, medically known as a subdermal contusion or hematoma, is simply a bruise that forms as a result of vigorous kissing or sucking on soft skin, typically around the neck. This intense suction causes the tiny blood vessels under the skin, a.k.a. capillaries, to burst and release blood into the surrounding tissues. The immediate result? An unmistakable red or purple mark that gradually shifts to a darker shade as it heals.

From a medical standpoint, hickeys are intriguing. They showcase the skin’s sensitivity and the body’s rapid response to minor vascular injury. Not so romantic when you think about it scientifically, right? But hey, it’s all part of the human experience of showing affection — or something like that.

Hickey stages

When you get a hickey, your body starts a healing process that resembles how it deals with other bruises. Here’s a more detailed look at each stage of a hickey’s life cycle.

The initial mark

Immediately after the passionate moment, a hickey appears on the skin, screaming in shades of bright red or deep purple. This initial coloration is due to blood from the ruptured capillaries pooling beneath the skin’s surface in response to the suction. It’s your skin’s way of signaling that there’s been some minor internal damage in that area.

Color changes

As the hickey begins to heal, it undergoes a whole wardrobe of color transformations, showcasing your body’s metabolic process at work. 

Initially, the hickey darkens as the blood begins to oxidize. Then, after a few days, the body starts to break down and reabsorb the blood, so it turns lighter — going from blue to green to brown and, finally, mellow yellow. This rainbow journey reflects the breakdown of hemoglobin, the iron-containing substance in the blood, into biliverdin and bilirubin.

The fade-out

Finally, your hickey starts to ghost you. Over a week or two, depending on factors like your skin type, overall health, how severe the hickey was., and how your body rides the healing waves, the last traces of your hickey fade into nothing. 

During this stage, the body’s immune system clears away the remaining by-products of the broken-down blood. White blood cells swoop in like a cleanup crew at a festival, gobbling up and digesting the debris in a process called phagocytosis, while increased blood flow to the area helps to flush out the remnants. 

FAQs

How to heal a hickey

Need a hickey gone yesterday? Here’s how to help your hickey heal. Start with a cold pack — grab a spoon from the freezer or a chilled gel pack and gently press it against your hickey. This will help reduce any swelling and scatter the blood pooling under your skin, which can help minimize that bold bruise.

After using cold treatment for the first 48 hours, it’s time to turn up the heat. Switch to warm compresses to get the blood flowing smoothly again. A few minutes a few times a day invites more circulation to the hickey zone, helping you hustle through healing and clear out the blood remnants more swiftly. 

You can also try a dab of comfrey ointment. Research shows it may reduce bruise size and coloration for some peeps.

How to hide a hickey

Caught off guard? A little concealer or foundation over the hickey makes it less noticeable.

Not into makeup? Scarves and high-necked shirts are also great accessories for your camouflage arsenal.

How long do hickeys last?

Typically, a hickey will last anywhere from 5 days to 2 weeks, depending on its severity and your body’s healing capabilities.

How to prevent a hickey

Communication is key! Let your partner know your feelings about receiving a hickey — some might find it fun, while others may prefer to keep their necks clear.

Can hickeys be dangerous?

While generally harmless, hickeys can sometimes lead to complications like skin infections or, very rarely, blood clots. It’s best to keep the affection gentle to avoid any issues.

Takeaway

Hickeys are nothing more than bruises in disguise. They start as bright red to purple love stamps and gradually fade over several days to a couple of weeks. Speed up the process with heat and cold packs or a splodge of comfrey cream. 

Remember, the best approach to handling hickeys — like all aspects of relationships — is communication and care. So go forth, love responsibly, and keep a scarf handy, just in case!

Key takeaways

• A hickey is a bruise caused by intense kissing or sucking that breaks capillaries under your skin. It starts as a bright red or purple mark and gradually shifts through blue, green, brown, and yellow as your body breaks down and reabsorbs the blood.
• Most hickeys fade completely within 5 days to 2 weeks, depending on severity and your body’s healing process. You can speed up healing by applying cold packs for the first 48 hours, then switching to warm compresses to boost circulation.
• Comfrey ointment may help reduce bruise size and coloration. While hickeys are generally harmless, they can rarely lead to complications like skin infections or blood clots, so keeping affection gentle can help avoid issues.

Hickeys, or as scientists call them, subdermal hematomas, are love’s graffiti. If you’ve ever scrambled for scarves or turtlenecks, welcome to the kissing booth of knowledge! Join us as we navigate the lifecycle of hickeys, from their eye-catching start to their subtle fade, and learn how to speed up their departure.

What is a hickey?

A hickey, medically known as a subdermal contusion or hematoma, is simply a bruise that forms as a result of vigorous kissing or sucking on soft skin, typically around the neck. This intense suction causes the tiny blood vessels under the skin, a.k.a. capillaries, to burst and release blood into the surrounding tissues. The immediate result? An unmistakable red or purple mark that gradually shifts to a darker shade as it heals.

From a medical standpoint, hickeys are intriguing. They showcase the skin’s sensitivity and the body’s rapid response to minor vascular injury. Not so romantic when you think about it scientifically, right? But hey, it’s all part of the human experience of showing affection — or something like that.

Hickey stages

When you get a hickey, your body starts a healing process that resembles how it deals with other bruises. Here’s a more detailed look at each stage of a hickey’s life cycle.

The initial mark

Immediately after the passionate moment, a hickey appears on the skin, screaming in shades of bright red or deep purple. This initial coloration is due to blood from the ruptured capillaries pooling beneath the skin’s surface in response to the suction. It’s your skin’s way of signaling that there’s been some minor internal damage in that area.

Color changes

As the hickey begins to heal, it undergoes a whole wardrobe of color transformations, showcasing your body’s metabolic process at work. 

Initially, the hickey darkens as the blood begins to oxidize. Then, after a few days, the body starts to break down and reabsorb the blood, so it turns lighter — going from blue to green to brown and, finally, mellow yellow. This rainbow journey reflects the breakdown of hemoglobin, the iron-containing substance in the blood, into biliverdin and bilirubin.

The fade-out

Finally, your hickey starts to ghost you. Over a week or two, depending on factors like your skin type, overall health, how severe the hickey was., and how your body rides the healing waves, the last traces of your hickey fade into nothing. 

During this stage, the body’s immune system clears away the remaining by-products of the broken-down blood. White blood cells swoop in like a cleanup crew at a festival, gobbling up and digesting the debris in a process called phagocytosis, while increased blood flow to the area helps to flush out the remnants. 

FAQs

How to heal a hickey

Need a hickey gone yesterday? Here’s how to help your hickey heal. Start with a cold pack — grab a spoon from the freezer or a chilled gel pack and gently press it against your hickey. This will help reduce any swelling and scatter the blood pooling under your skin, which can help minimize that bold bruise.

After using cold treatment for the first 48 hours, it’s time to turn up the heat. Switch to warm compresses to get the blood flowing smoothly again. A few minutes a few times a day invites more circulation to the hickey zone, helping you hustle through healing and clear out the blood remnants more swiftly. 

You can also try a dab of comfrey ointment. Research shows it may reduce bruise size and coloration for some peeps.

How to hide a hickey

Caught off guard? A little concealer or foundation over the hickey makes it less noticeable.

Not into makeup? Scarves and high-necked shirts are also great accessories for your camouflage arsenal.

How long do hickeys last?

Typically, a hickey will last anywhere from 5 days to 2 weeks, depending on its severity and your body’s healing capabilities.

How to prevent a hickey

Communication is key! Let your partner know your feelings about receiving a hickey — some might find it fun, while others may prefer to keep their necks clear.

Can hickeys be dangerous?

While generally harmless, hickeys can sometimes lead to complications like skin infections or, very rarely, blood clots. It’s best to keep the affection gentle to avoid any issues.

Takeaway

Hickeys are nothing more than bruises in disguise. They start as bright red to purple love stamps and gradually fade over several days to a couple of weeks. Speed up the process with heat and cold packs or a splodge of comfrey cream. 

Remember, the best approach to handling hickeys — like all aspects of relationships — is communication and care. So go forth, love responsibly, and keep a scarf handy, just in case!

Key takeaways

• An undercut involves shaving or cutting hair very short on the sides or back while keeping the top longer. This reduces hair volume, which may improve scalp airflow and help minimize issues like scalp acne, dandruff, and dermatitis.
• Popular undercut styles for women include the classic side-swept undercut, hidden undercut (tucked under the top layer), design undercuts with intricate patterns, and tapered undercuts that gradually blend with longer hair.
• Undercuts offer practical benefits like faster drying and styling time, easier management of thick hair, and reduced daily heat styling. They also provide a versatile look you can show off or conceal depending on the occasion.

Is it time to give your hairstyle and scalp a breath of fresh air? Say hello to the undercut hairstyle, a fashion-forward solution that can elevate your look and promote skin health.

By significantly reducing hair volume, undercuts allow for improved air circulation around the scalp. The result? Less trapped heat and moisture — factors that can contribute to fungal infections, scalp acne, dandruff, and dermatitis.

Whether you’re battling irritation or want to give your “do” a new lease on life, continue reading to learn how undercut hairstyles can be your ally in style and scalp health.

Hair’s what to know!

What is an undercut?

An undercut involves shaving or cutting hair very short on the sides or back of the head while leaving the hair on top longer. 

Originally popular in men’s hairstyling, the undercut has crossed gender boundaries and gained popularity among peeps seeking a hairstyle that stands out. 

It’s a style that offers a stark contrast and is often used to add an edge to an otherwise conventional look. So whether it’s a side undercut, undercut pixie, mullet undercut, or nape undercut, these hairstyles for women, men, and folks of all genders enhance individuality while offering practical benefits like reduced drying time and less hair maintenance. 

Benefits of an undercut

Choosing an undercut means embracing a hairstyle with a “heady” mix of aesthetic and practical benefits. Here’s why an undercut might be the refreshing change you need.

It’s a unique look

Ready to turn heads? The standout feature of an undercut is undoubtedly its unique appearance. Hidden under the longer layers, it packs a punch of boldness you can flaunt or conceal — whatever fits your vibe. You can control the reveal, whether you’re showcasing that edgy undercut for a night out or keeping it classy for the office. 

It’s perfect for thick hair

Got a mane that’s more lioness than laid-back? An undercut might be your new BFF. Strategically shaving or trimming the hair short on the sides or back dramatically dials down the volume. This means your thick, voluminous hair becomes way easier to manage and style, turning a heavy head of hair into something light and breezy. 

And the best part? You get to keep all the styling potential without any of the hassle. It’s a practical solution that doesn’t sacrifice style for comfort.

It expedites drying and styling

Are you chasing the clock every morning? An undercut could slash your prep time. With less hair to fuss over, you can breeze through your washing, drying, and styling routine faster than you can say “snooze button.” 

This trimmed-down approach is a time-saver and reduces the daily wear and tear from blow dryers and straighteners, keeping hair healthier in the long run. 

It may promote healthier hair

Undercuts reduce your scalp’s weight and improve hair follicle airflow. This keeps the scalp cooler and reduces the buildup of sweat and oil that can lead to scalp irritation, dermatitis, and dandruff. As a result, undercuts could lead to more robust, healthier hair growth.

Types of undercut hairstyles for women

Ready to shake up your style with a cool undercut? Here’s a rundown of some options to add a dash of daring to your daily look:

Classic side-swept undercut

Are you looking for a dramatic change without total commitment? Try the side-swept undercut. 

This style features a sleek shave on one side of the head, just above the ear, while keeping the hair on top and the other side longer. 

It’s perfect for folks who love to play with contrast — sweep the top hair over to the shaved side for an instant bold statement.

Hidden undercut

If subtlety is more your speed, this undercut is a wicked choice. It’s a shaved area tucked away at the back of the head or underneath the top layer of hair so that it can play a fantastic game of hide-and-seek. 

Wear your hair down for a business-as-usual look, or tie it up to reveal a sneaky, stylish surprise. It’s an excellent choice for peeps wanting a touch of edge.

Design undercuts

Are you feeling bold and artistic? Design Undercuts take personal expression to the next level. These chic undercuts are masterpieces, boasting intricate geometric patterns, sweet floral motifs, or any design that speaks to you. 

Tapered undercut

Do you prefer a more understated yet stylish look? The tapered undercut starts very short near the ear and gracefully lengthens as it ascends the head, blending with your other locks. 

It’s a softer version of the undercut that pairs beautifully with bob or lob cuts and offers a gentle nod to the undercut trend without going full-throttle.

Takeaway

The undercut hair offers both style and substance. It reduces styling time and promotes scalp health. By alleviating the weight and allowing the scalp to breathe, undercuts can help minimize issues like overheating and irritation, especially during warmer months. 

Whether you’re drawn to the edgy designs or the subtle tapered style, an undercut could be a clever hack to simplify your morning routine. More time for coffee, less time with the comb!

Key takeaways

• Protein farts happen when gut bacteria break down protein and produce hydrogen sulfide, which smells like rotten eggs. However, the real culprits are often lactose in whey protein or artificial sweeteners in protein powders.
• To reduce protein farts, gradually increase your protein intake, stay hydrated, and consider switching to plant-based or animal-based protein sources if whey upsets your stomach.
• Enzyme supplements like Beano or Lactaid can help break down proteins and lactose, and probiotics may support gut health to reduce gas production overall.

Protein farts are a common, albeit smelly, side effect of high-protein diets. They happen because of how proteins are digested. But(t) don’t worry! We have some tips to help you say goodbye to those pungent protein toots without giving up your gains.

What are protein farts?

Protein farts are episodes of flatulence that don’t smell too pleasant! They’re generally due to upping your protein intake from supplements like protein shakes. 

And while these butt whistles may be embarrassing, you’ll be glad to know they’re generally harmless.

What causes protein farts?

Farts consist of different gases. The most stinky odors usually come from your gut bacteria, producing sulfur-containing compounds as they break down food. The main culprit is hydrogen sulfide, which gives off a characteristic rotten egg smell, yum!

But why do your protein choices lead to thunder from down under? 

Well, there’s not much evidence that a high-protein diet causes protein farts. However, there’s some anecdotal evidence that supplementary protein — like protein bars, protein shakes, and powder powders — increases flatulence, but it’s likely due to non-protein ingredients like lactose.

Supplements containing whey protein or casein are derived from milk and are high in lactose, which can increase flatulence. If your body can’t properly digest lactose, it ends up in your colon, where bacteria feast on it, producing — you guessed it — more gas and cheek flapping.

So, whey protein can throw a curveball for those who are lactose intolerant or sensitive. Surprisingly, it might also stir up digestive drama even for folks who typically handle dairy like champs, potentially due to additives like fart-inducing sweeteners or thickeners.

Some people may also have more significant issues digesting protein. Proteins are big, complex molecules — breaking them down is no small task for your gut. Plant-based protein supplements, like those based on soya beans, may also worsen flatulence. 

FYI: Another reason why flatulence is common with protein powders and supplements is due to the addition of artificial sweeteners in the powders and bars, like sugar alcohols, sucralose, sorbitol, xylitol, and stevia.

6 tips to prevent protein farts

If you’re looking to continue your protein regimen without becoming a walking, talking whoopee cushion, here are some strategic adjustments you can make:

1. Ease into it

Don’t just dive into the deep end with your protein intake — wade in slowly. Gradually increasing the amount of protein you consume allows your digestive system to adjust without getting overwhelmed. This step-by-step approach can help minimize the likelihood of excessive gas.

2. Stay hydrated

Keep the water flowing. Drinking plenty of water is crucial as it helps your digestive system handle higher protein levels more efficiently. Proper hydration aids in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients, which can help prevent gas buildup.

3. Consider enzyme supplements

Sometimes, your body needs a little extra help. Enzyme supplements like Beano or Lactaid can be game-changers, especially if you consume proteins that your body struggles with. These supplements help break down proteins and lactose, making digestion smoother and less gassy.

4. Mix up your protein sources.

Variety isn’t just the spice of life — it can also be the solution to your protein fart problems. If whey protein tends to upset your stomach, explore other options like plant-based or animal-based proteins that might be easier to digest. Diversifying your protein sources can also ensure you get a broad range of nutrients.

5. Mind your mix-ins

What you blend your protein powder with can make a big difference. If you’re whipping up a protein shake, be mindful of adding high-fiber fruits and vegetables, as these can also increase gas production. Try to find a balance that allows you to enjoy the benefits of protein and fiber without the extra flatulence.

6. Probiotics might help

Introducing probiotics into your diet can improve your gut health, which can help manage and reduce gas production. Whether through supplements or probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut, boosting your gut flora can aid in better overall digestion and less discomfort from gas.

Takeaway

Protein farts are a rather windy side effect of a high-protein diet, but they don’t have to knock you off course. Try easing into your protein consumption, staying hydrated, diversifying your protein sources, and integrating enzyme supplements or probiotics to max those gains, minus the stink bombs!

Key takeaways

• Vibration plates use whole-body vibration (WBV) to force muscles to contract and relax rapidly, which may boost blood flow, support muscle strength, and improve bone mineral density.
• Research suggests WBV can help with recovery by reducing muscle soreness and stiffness through increased circulation. It may also serve as a useful warm-up activity before exercise.
• Vibration plates alone won’t significantly reduce belly fat — you’ll need to combine them with a balanced diet, cardio, and resistance training for weight loss results.

Vibration plates are like mini surfboards that give you a good shimmy while you’re exercising. Though you won’t find a mountain of extensive research behind them, you may be impressed by their possible benefits.

We asked a weightlifting coach to explain and show us how to add good vibrations to our workout routine.

What is a vibration plate?

These machines, which look like platforms or scales, are designed to activate something called whole-body vibration (WBV). WBV makes the body work harder by forcing it to contract muscles automatically.

Fans of WBV like to perform classic exercises on top of these machines, including:

• pushups
• planks
• crunches
• sit-ups
• squats
• step-ups
• lunges

5 vibration plate benefits

1. Boosts blood flow

Research points to WBV’s ability to boost blood flow.

Weightlifting coach Jarrod Nobbe explains that vibration plates help move blood by stimulating muscle contractions through rapid vibrations.

“The rhythmic contraction and relaxation of muscles help pump blood more efficiently throughout the body,” he says.

As Nobbe adds, movement generally increases blood flow and core temperature, preparing the body for activity. This means vibration plates may be an excellent warm-up activity.

2. May boost strength

A 2021 study showed that WBV can be an alternative exercise for older adults, boosting the effects of strengthening exercise.

Nobbe says this is because WBV engages muscles in a way that mimics resistance training.

“The vibrations activate and force muscles to contract and relax multiple times per second, which can lead to gains in muscle strength and endurance over time, especially when combined with specific exercises,” he says.

3. May improve energy

Nobbe points to some anecdotal evidence suggesting that regular use of vibration plates may help boost energy levels, possibly thanks to increased blood circulation and enhanced muscle activation.

“Ultimately, I stand by the idea that movement is medicine,” Nobbe says. “Tons of research already proves that regular physical activity boosts mood, mental health, and promotes energy levels.”

4. May help recovery

Nobbe says WBV may reduce muscle soreness, stiffness, and inflammation by encouraging blood flow to the muscles. This, he explains, aids in faster recovery post-exercise or injury.  

5. Helps bone mineral density

WBV has been shown to improve bone mineral density, which Nobbe points out may positively affect those at risk of osteoporosis.

“The mechanical vibrations stimulate bone cells, potentially leading to increased bone density and strength, delivering the same positive bone health benefits of resistance training,” he says.

Are vibration plates good for belly fat?

“Unfortunately, vibration plates aren’t a one-stop shop for weight loss,” Nobbe says.

He explains that vibration plates alone are unlikely to significantly reduce belly fat without dietary changes and additional exercise.

“While vibration plates can contribute to overall calorie expenditure and muscle activation, targeted fat loss requires a comprehensive approach including diet, cardio exercise, and resistance training,” he says.

How to use a vibration plate

These tips will help you stand on your vibration plate with a slight bend at your knee or perform exercises on top of it.

• Start slow: Nobbe suggests starting with shorter sessions (10–15 minutes) and gradually increasing duration and intensity. PSA, Don’t forget to warm up!
• Good form: Always use proper form during exercises on the plate, which Nobbe says maximizes effectiveness and minimizes injury risk.
• Keep healthy routines: Nobbe says to combine vibration plate workouts with a balanced exercise routine and healthy diet for the best results.
• Maintain your plate: To stay safe and get the most out of your machine, Nobbe reminds us to clean and check it regularly, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Takeaway

More research is needed around WBV — AKA what happens when you use a vibration plate — but existing smaller research is promising.

Use your machine carefully, and remember to maintain a healthy lifestyle and workout routine.

Key takeaways

• Relationships move through four main stages: the euphoric stage (6 to 12 months), early attachment stage (1 to 5 years), crisis stage (5 to 7 years), and deep attachment stage (7+ years).
• During the euphoric stage, the prefrontal cortex shows decreased activity, making you less likely to focus on your partner’s faults. As the relationship progresses, attachment hormones like oxytocin and vasopressin help transform initial excitement into warm, enduring attachment.
• The crisis stage around 5 to 7 years tests your relationship’s resilience, often coinciding with major life events like becoming parents. Successfully navigating this phase means addressing issues head-on and fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection.

Relationships aren’t just about candlelit dinners and cozy sofa nights — they’re complex AF, filled with ups, downs, twists, and turns. From the first flush of love to the settled comfort of commitment, relationships have stages that evolve with time. 

Each relationship phase serves a unique purpose, helping you learn more about each other, yourself, and the kind of relationship you want to build. Understanding the dynamics of these stages is crucial for any couple (or throuple!) aiming to develop a lasting bond.

Whether you’re in the throes of a new romance or navigating the challenges of a long-term commitment, continue reading to learn how to rock each phase like a pro.

Relationship stage timeline

From those “can’t eat, can’t sleep” early days to the “let’s build an empire” moments, each relationship stage is like a season of your fave drama binge. But, like any good drama, the plot thickens as time passes and things change. Here’s what to expect, month by month:

• Euphoric stage (6–12 months): Everything is fantastic. Your partner can do no wrong, and you’re in utter bliss! 
• Early attachment stage (1–5 years): Roots start to grow, and you’re past just dating — you’re building a life together. Think less grand gestures, more love, comfort, and the occasional why-are-your-socks-on-the-floor moment.
• Crisis stage (5–7 years): Life throws you curveballs — kids, career changes, and the infamous ‘seven-year itch.’ It’s a test of your teamwork and commitment. Are you syncing or sinking in this make-it-or-break-it stage?
• Deep attachment stage (7+ years): You’ve hit solid ground! It’s about unconditional love and accepting that this is forever. You’re each other’s rock, and while the flame might not always burn as brightly as the early days, it’s warm, steady, and reliable. 

Euphoric stage

Welcome to the love bubble, where everything about your significant other seems nothing short of magical. The positives overshadow any negatives, creating a blissfully skewed balance sheet of love. It lasts from about 6 months to 2 years for most peeps, but many folks say they are still madly in love even after 20 years together!

Research shows that during this stage, the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for critically judging others, shows decreased activity. In other words, you’re less likely to focus on your partner’s faults and more likely to overlook their flaws. 

Lurve also activates specific areas in the brain that are driven by goals and rewards. These areas are rich in dopamine and oxytocin receptors, chemicals that make you feel good and bonded to others. They encourage you to pursue and maintain a relationship because it feels rewarding and fulfilling.

Early attachment stage

If the euphoric stage is the wild, pulse-racing party of love, the early attachment stage is the cozy after-party where things get real comfortable. In the thrilling initial phase, your brain is doped up on dopamine, but as this initial buzz begins to mellow, a more sophisticated part of the brain starts to step up — the ventral pallidum. 

Now, after the first year or so, deeper bonds are formed, helped along by attachment hormones like vasopressin and oxytocin, also fondly known as “the love hormone.” These hormones help transform the electric excitement of new love into a warm, enduring attachment.

Crisis stage

Hold tight because the crisis stage hits around 5 to 7 years, and it’s a true test of your relationship’s resilience. This phase often feels like a rollercoaster, where life’s challenges can either pull you apart or push you closer together. Many couples experience a drift during this time, and how you handle it — either by addressing the issues head-on or continuing to drift — can define your future together.

Significant life events, like becoming parents, often occur during this stage and can intensify the pressure. These events can either strengthen your bond through shared responsibilities and mutual love or strain it to the breaking point. Successfully navigating this stage means moving beyond mere survival to fostering a deeper, more meaningful connection.

Deep attachment stage

If you’ve made it this far, congrats, you’re in the deep attachment stage! Post-crisis, you’re looking at 7 years and beyond where you settle into that deep, comfy love. No more daily fireworks — now it’s about a slow-burning ember that warms the house. 

You know each other inside and out, warts and all. It’s about unconditional support, knowing looks across crowded rooms, and being each other’s rock. Welcome to the good life!

Takeaway

Every relationship is a blend of sweet and sour and everything in between. Understanding the stages, from the initial euphoria to the deep attachment stage, helps you embrace the journey, keep your bond strong, and prepare your heart for whatever comes next. So buckle up and enjoy the ride — it’ll be worth it!

Key takeaways

• Tangerines are packed with vitamin C, which may help strengthen your immune system by enhancing white blood cell function to fight off infections and pathogens.
• These citrus fruits contain fiber that may support healthy digestion and bowel function, plus flavonoids that may help lower blood pressure and support heart health.
• Tangerines provide vitamin A and potassium that may promote skin hydration and reduce fine lines, plus antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin that support eye health.

Tangerines are not just tasty — they’re a powerhouse of nutrients. Packed with tangy flavor and vibrant orange color, these citrus delights offer a host of health benefits. From boosting your immune system to rejuvenating your skin, tangerines are nutrient-rich allies for your well-being. Let’s delve into their nutritional profile and discover why they’re a smart addition to your diet.

Nutritional value in tangerines

Tangerines are nutritional powerhouses. Here’s what each of these little champs pack under their orange belts:

• Energy: 53 calories (kcal)
• Protein: 0.81 grams (g)
• Fat: 0.31 g
• Carbohydrates: 13.3 g
• Fiber: 1.8 g
• Calcium: 37 milligrams (mg)
• Iron: 0.15 mg
• Magnesium: 12 mg
• Potassium: 166 mg
• Vitamin C: 26.7 mg

Benefits of tangerines

Tangerines are teeny cousins of the orange but with a thinner, easier-to-peel skin. They boast a sweet and juicy flavor and pack a ton of vitamins, particularly vitamin C, as well as minerals like potassium, antioxidants, and dietary fiber. 

These tiny bursts of sunshine have many benefits that can significantly enhance your health. Here’s why you might want to make tangerines a regular part of your diet:

1. Boosts immune system

Tangerines are loaded with vitamin C, turning them into tiny, tasty guardians for your health. This crucial vitamin supercharges your immune system by enhancing the function and effectiveness of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off pathogens and infections. By improving the activity and response of these cells, vitamin C helps your body combat a wide range of infections more effectively. 

Therefore, regular consumption of these mini-oranges satisfies your taste buds and boosts your body’s defense mechanisms — a win-win!

2. Promotes skin health

Want that glow? Tangerines have got you covered. They’re high in potassium, a real game-changer for regulating hydration and balancing fluid levels in your skin cells. This essential mineral keeps your skin cells plump and hydrated, warding off pesky, dry, dull patches. 

Plus, potassium supports the removal of toxins and wastes, which means clearer, more radiant skin. 

Tangerines are also a fantastic source of vitamin A, which strengthens the outer layer of your skin, smoothing out wrinkles and reducing fine lines. Along with vitamin C, it’s a potent antioxidant, protecting your skin from the damaging and aging effects of free radicals. 

3. Aids digestion

Are you having tummy troubles? Tangerines can help with a fiber boost that keeps things moving smoothly along your digestive tract. 

These zesty little superheroes are your gut’s new best friends. They’re loaded with fiber that bulks up and softens things down there, making your bathroom visits smooth and speedy. This fruity fix helps manage everything from irregular pit stops to those bloated bleurgh days.

Fiber also balances your gut flora, promoting a healthy microbial environment in your intestines. This balance is crucial for optimal digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.

So, grab a tangerine to remedy your belly blues next time your gut feels out of whack.

4. Fights cancer and heart disease

Tangerines are a dynamo when it comes to battling serious health baddies like cancer and heart disease. These little orange wonders are loaded with flavonoids, natural compounds that help with heart health and cancer prevention.

Flavonoids help relax the blood vessels, lowering blood pressure levels and reducing the strain on your heart. This helps keep your ticker ticking smoothly and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes.

But wait, there’s more! When it comes to cancer, flavonoids mess with the bad guys — cancer cells — stopping them from multiplying and spreading their nonsense around your body. 

5. Enhances eye health

Keep your peepers sharp with a dose of vitamin A from tangerines. This essential nutrient and compounds like beta-carotene shield your eyes from age-related issues and support healthy vision. It plays a key role in creating rhodopsin, a protein in your eyes that allows you to see in low-light conditions. 

Munching on tangerines helps keep your night vision in superhero shape and supports overall eye function, keeping your peepers sharp and responsive.

Furthermore, tangerines contain other essential eye health nutrients, like lutein and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants are found in high concentrations in the retina, where they help filter blue light and prevent oxidative damage, further protecting the eyes from conditions like cataracts.

Takeaway

Sure, tangerines are delish and make your taste buds do a happy dance, but they’re also packed with nutrients that can seriously amp up your well-being. 

From giving your immune system a high-five to keeping your heart beating like a healthy drum, tangerines are basically wellness wrapped in a bright orange peel. So, go grab one and make it your main squeeze!

Whether it’s from a cold, allergies, or changes in air pressure, blocked ears can disrupt your day-to-day activities and even cause discomfort. Thankfully, there are several effective methods to help unclog your ears and restore your hearing. Listen up!

Why are my ears clogged?

Clogging can happen either on the inside or the outside of your eardrum. Here are the most common ways your ears can get blocked:

• Earwax in the outer ear helps prevent particles and excess water from entering the middle ear. However, if earwax builds up too much outside the eardrum, it can cause a blockage.
• If you’ve been swimming recently, some water might be stuck in your ear canal, pushing against your eardrum. When that water hangs around too long, it can lead to a swimmer’s ear, an outer ear infection.
• Sinus infections, ear infections, and Eustachian tube dysfunction can pressure your eardrum’s inner side.
• Allergies can cause uncomfortable inflammation and congestion in your ears. Your sinuses, throat, and ears are connected, so when you feel stuffed up and sniffly, your inner ear feels the pain too.
• Changes in air pressure, like when you fly, can cause uncomfortable ear pressure.

Best clogged ear remedies

1. Pop and unclog

The easiest way to unclog your ears is by “popping” them. Just pinch your nose shut, seal your lips, and gently blow. This simple technique, known as the Valsalva maneuver, won’t clear earwax or fluid but is a common trick people use on planes.

2. Swallow, yawn, or chew

The Eustachian tubes connect your middle ear to the back of your throat. They briefly open when you swallow, yawn, or chew. Altitude changes can cause these tubes to close, but chewing gum or yawning can help reopen them. Alternatively, you can try the Toynbee maneuver, where you hold your nose and swallow.

3. Ear drops

Over-the-counter (OTC) ear drops can soften and dissolve excess earwax. If you prefer a DIY approach, warm a small amount of mineral oil and use an eye dropper to apply a few drops into your ear for a few minutes.

Pro tip: Baby oil or olive oil can also be used, but make sure it’s not too hot. Additionally, diluted hydrogen peroxide drops can be helpful.

4. Warmth and gravity

To loosen up clogged earwax, use a warm, damp washcloth as a compress. Lie down with the clogged ear facing down against the heated washcloth. Gravity and heat will help the earwax move along more easily.

5. Hit the steam room

Steam can help drain sinuses and alleviate pressure in your inner ear. Close the bathroom door, let the hot shower run for a while, and then luxuriate with deep, cleansing breaths. 

6. Take allergy medication

Because your throat, sinuses, and ears are interconnected, any sickness affecting your sinuses or throat can also impact your ears.

Over-the-counter antihistamines, decongestants, or nasal sprays can relieve sniffles, coughs, and ear discomfort.

7. Rinse away the gunk

Rinsing your nasal passages with a medication-free saline solution can help reduce congestion and clear out mucus that might be causing ear blockage. You can also consider investing in a nasal irrigation system for more thorough mucus clearing.

When to see your doctor

Have you been unable to unclog your ears for a few days, or are you experiencing severe pain, fever, dizziness, hearing loss, fluid discharge, or unusual odor? If so, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly. These symptoms may indicate an infection that needs medical attention.

What not to do when you have clogged ears

• Cotton swabs: Q-tips and other cotton swabs to remove earwax can push it further into your ear canal, so don’t do it. 
• Candling: Ear candles might seem like a fun party trick, but there’s no science to prove they work, and they’ve been shown to cause injuries.
• Sprays: Decongestant nasal sprays can be helpful, but using them too long can lead to rebound congestion.
• Drying solutions: A few drops of rubbing alcohol or a mixture of one part vinegar and one part alcohol can help dry out the ears when you have a swimmer’s ear. However, doing this regularly can lead to irritation.

Takeaway

Clogged ears are often caused by earwax buildup, allergies, infections, or changes in air pressure. You can use over-the-counter or DIY ear drops, irrigation kits, or warm compresses to unblock your ears. Antihistamines or nasal sprays can also help relieve clogs caused by allergies.

PSA: Consult a healthcare provider if your blocked ears are painful or at-home remedies don’t work.

Key takeaways

• If you’re more excited about the romance narrative than the actual person, feel relieved when they’re gone, or find deep conversations rare, you may not be truly in love.
• Red flags include clashing core values, lack of mutual respect, indifference about future plans, and finding more joy with others than with your partner.
• A wandering eye, annoyance at habits you once found charming, and not missing them when they’re away can signal infatuation rather than lasting love.

Love can feel like navigating a choose-your-own-adventure book with half the pages missing. Are you truly in love or just caught in a wave of infatuation? Sometimes, what seems like a heart-thumping romance may be a fleeting crush. 

Wondering how to tell the difference? We’ve got you! Here’s a rundown of the 10 signs you’re not really in love.

Signs you’re not really in love

Feeling a bit puzzled about your feelings for boo? That’s pretty normal. But before you start planning your future or picking out matching Halloween costumes, you may wanna make sure it’s real love and not a case of a serious crush. 

Here are some signs that you may not really be in love:

• More in love with the idea: You’re smitten with the romance narrative, not the person.
• Shallow connections: Your chats are surface-level — the deep, meaningful conversations aren’t happening.
• Future indifference: Discussions about the future feel unrealistic, like planning a trip to Mars.
• Annoyance over adoration: Their cute habits now trigger eye rolls, not smiles.
• Relief in their absence: You’re more relaxed and ‘you’ when they’re not around.
• Clashing values: Your core beliefs don’t match up, making harmony hard to find.
• Lack of respect: There’s a shortfall in mutual admiration.
• Absence doesn’t faze you: Out of sight, out of mind? Maybe your heart isn’t in it.
• Joy from others: Others bring you the happiness you crave.
• Wandering eye: Still scanning the scene? Maybe you’re not fully content or committed.

More in love with the idea

Caught up in the romance novel vibe? If you’re all about the feelings of being in love rather than who’s sharing your popcorn, it might just be that you’re smitten with the idea of love itself. 

Time to check if your relationship is more about the fairy tale than the real person.

Shallow connections only

Chatting with your partner shouldn’t feel as shallow as a kiddie pool. If deep talks are tougher than pulling teeth and rarer than a unicorn, it’s a red flag. 

Sticking to small talk about the weather and dinner plans suggests the emotional depth for a lasting bond might be missing.

Future indifference red flags

When discussions about future plans feel as far-fetched as sci-fi adventures, they may reveal underlying doubts about the relationship’s viability. 

If imagining a future together feels unrealistic or undesirable, it’s time to ask yourself why. Real love plans a future; infatuation lives for the weekend.

Annoyance over adoration 

Remember when their sock on the floor was cute? If little quirks now make you more cranky than charmed, it might mean the love goggles are off, your feelings have shifted from affection to annoyance, and the reality check has bounced. 

Love is seeing imperfections and adoring them anyway.

Relief in their absence 

Feeling more at ease or more ‘yourself’ when your partner isn’t around is a telling sign. If you’re secretly throwing mini-parties when they leave the room, you need to stop and think. Real-deal love means missing their chaos when they’re gone, not celebrating the silence.

Clashing values 

Shared values are the anchor of deep, lasting relationships. If your core values clash more than a polka dot and stripes ensemble, you’re in for a rough ride, as finding common ground could be challenging! 

Lasting love grows from shared beliefs and mutual respect, not from opposing battle lines.

Lack of respect 

No respect? No future. Respect is as critical to love as air is to breathing. Without mutual respect, you might just be coexisting rather than genuinely connecting.

If you no longer admire or respect each other’s opinions and choices, sustaining a healthy relationship will be difficult.

Absence doesn’t faze you

If they’re out of sight and totally out of mind, that’s not just independence — it might be indifference. When love is real, you should long for their laugh or lame jokes when they’re away. Could it be that your emotional attachment isn’t as strong as it should be for a lasting relationship?

Joy from others

If your best moments are consistently away from your partner, your heart might not be in it to win it. Perhaps your relationship isn’t providing enough support or happiness. 

True love enriches your life and doesn’t play second fiddle to your social circle. It’s time to evaluate where your emotional energy is invested.

A wandering eye

Still window shopping while you’re supposedly locked down? It’s a sign you might not be all in. A love that lasts doesn’t keep a backup catalog — it’s too busy loving what it already has.

Knowing why you’re still scanning for alternatives can help you address what might be missing or unfulfilled in your relationship.

Takeaway

Are you genuinely in love or just in love with being in love? If you’re secretly thrilled when they’re not around, stuck in surface-level chit-chat, or dreading deep-future talks, these are cosmic signs that it’s rethink o’clock.

Don’t ignore the signals — tuning in now can save you heartache later and lead you toward a love that genuinely fulfills you.

Key takeaways

• If you’re more excited about the romance narrative than the actual person, feel relieved when they’re gone, or find deep conversations rare, you may not be truly in love.
• Red flags include clashing core values, lack of mutual respect, indifference about future plans, and finding more joy with others than with your partner.
• A wandering eye, annoyance at habits you once found charming, and not missing them when they’re away can signal infatuation rather than lasting love.

Love can feel like navigating a choose-your-own-adventure book with half the pages missing. Are you truly in love or just caught in a wave of infatuation? Sometimes, what seems like a heart-thumping romance may be a fleeting crush. 

Wondering how to tell the difference? We’ve got you! Here’s a rundown of the 10 signs you’re not really in love.

Signs you’re not really in love

Feeling a bit puzzled about your feelings for boo? That’s pretty normal. But before you start planning your future or picking out matching Halloween costumes, you may wanna make sure it’s real love and not a case of a serious crush. 

Here are some signs that you may not really be in love:

• More in love with the idea: You’re smitten with the romance narrative, not the person.
• Shallow connections: Your chats are surface-level — the deep, meaningful conversations aren’t happening.
• Future indifference: Discussions about the future feel unrealistic, like planning a trip to Mars.
• Annoyance over adoration: Their cute habits now trigger eye rolls, not smiles.
• Relief in their absence: You’re more relaxed and ‘you’ when they’re not around.
• Clashing values: Your core beliefs don’t match up, making harmony hard to find.
• Lack of respect: There’s a shortfall in mutual admiration.
• Absence doesn’t faze you: Out of sight, out of mind? Maybe your heart isn’t in it.
• Joy from others: Others bring you the happiness you crave.
• Wandering eye: Still scanning the scene? Maybe you’re not fully content or committed.

More in love with the idea

Caught up in the romance novel vibe? If you’re all about the feelings of being in love rather than who’s sharing your popcorn, it might just be that you’re smitten with the idea of love itself. 

Time to check if your relationship is more about the fairy tale than the real person.

Shallow connections only

Chatting with your partner shouldn’t feel as shallow as a kiddie pool. If deep talks are tougher than pulling teeth and rarer than a unicorn, it’s a red flag. 

Sticking to small talk about the weather and dinner plans suggests the emotional depth for a lasting bond might be missing.

Future indifference red flags

When discussions about future plans feel as far-fetched as sci-fi adventures, they may reveal underlying doubts about the relationship’s viability. 

If imagining a future together feels unrealistic or undesirable, it’s time to ask yourself why. Real love plans a future; infatuation lives for the weekend.

Annoyance over adoration 

Remember when their sock on the floor was cute? If little quirks now make you more cranky than charmed, it might mean the love goggles are off, your feelings have shifted from affection to annoyance, and the reality check has bounced. 

Love is seeing imperfections and adoring them anyway.

Relief in their absence 

Feeling more at ease or more ‘yourself’ when your partner isn’t around is a telling sign. If you’re secretly throwing mini-parties when they leave the room, you need to stop and think. Real-deal love means missing their chaos when they’re gone, not celebrating the silence.

Clashing values 

Shared values are the anchor of deep, lasting relationships. If your core values clash more than a polka dot and stripes ensemble, you’re in for a rough ride, as finding common ground could be challenging! 

Lasting love grows from shared beliefs and mutual respect, not from opposing battle lines.

Lack of respect 

No respect? No future. Respect is as critical to love as air is to breathing. Without mutual respect, you might just be coexisting rather than genuinely connecting.

If you no longer admire or respect each other’s opinions and choices, sustaining a healthy relationship will be difficult.

Absence doesn’t faze you

If they’re out of sight and totally out of mind, that’s not just independence — it might be indifference. When love is real, you should long for their laugh or lame jokes when they’re away. Could it be that your emotional attachment isn’t as strong as it should be for a lasting relationship?

Joy from others

If your best moments are consistently away from your partner, your heart might not be in it to win it. Perhaps your relationship isn’t providing enough support or happiness. 

True love enriches your life and doesn’t play second fiddle to your social circle. It’s time to evaluate where your emotional energy is invested.

A wandering eye

Still window shopping while you’re supposedly locked down? It’s a sign you might not be all in. A love that lasts doesn’t keep a backup catalog — it’s too busy loving what it already has.

Knowing why you’re still scanning for alternatives can help you address what might be missing or unfulfilled in your relationship.

Takeaway

Are you genuinely in love or just in love with being in love? If you’re secretly thrilled when they’re not around, stuck in surface-level chit-chat, or dreading deep-future talks, these are cosmic signs that it’s rethink o’clock.

Don’t ignore the signals — tuning in now can save you heartache later and lead you toward a love that genuinely fulfills you.

Key takeaways

• Creatine supplements may increase levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to male pattern baldness. One 2009 study found DHT rose 56% after a week of high-dose creatine, though these findings haven’t been replicated.
• Hair loss from creatine isn’t guaranteed — it depends on your genetics. If you’re predisposed to androgenic alopecia due to variations in your androgen receptor gene, elevated DHT may affect your hairline.
• Creatine is generally safe long-term for healthy people, but it can cause water retention and bloating. Talk with a doctor before starting creatine if you have kidney, liver, or high blood pressure issues, or if hair loss concerns you.

Ah, creatine! It’s a popular supplement promising muscle gains and enhanced performance. But as you’re hitting the gym harder and seeing results, there are some potential side effects to be aware of. Here’s the lowdown.

What is creatine?

Creatine monohydrate is a naturally occurring substance found in muscle cells. It helps to produce adenosine triphosphate (ATP) — your muscles’ go-to fuel when working hard. 

Although you can find creatine in foods like red meat and seafood, many gym enthusiasts and athletes boost their stores with supplements. Why? Because more creatine equals more ATP, which means more energy for high-intensity activities. More fuel means more mileage!

Now, here’s where things get hairy. You might dial up your body’s DHT (dihydrotestosterone) production when you uplevel creatine. DHT is a derivative of testosterone and plays a big-league role in developing male characteristics. But here’s the catch: while DHT might beef up your alpha vibe, it’s also notorious for thinning out hairlines in peeps predisposed to male pattern baldness. 

So, do creatine supplements cause baldness? Maybe! The buzz mainly stems from a small 2009 study where college-aged rugby players loaded up on creatine and saw their DHT levels increase significantly. 

Because DHT can shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle, it may seem logical to blame creatine for contributing to hair thinning. However, it’s important to remember that these findings are a one-hit wonder — they haven’t been seen again in other studies. Plus, let’s not forget that intense workouts alone can pump up these hormones, too. 

As a result, the jury’s still out, making the creatine-and-baldness saga a hot topic for gym gossip and scientists alike.

How much does creatine increase DHT levels?

The same 2009 study found that after a week of taking high-dose creatinine at 25 grams per day, DHT levels rose by 56%. When the researchers dropped the dose to 5g daily for two more weeks, levels remained 40% higher than baseline. These findings contrasted with the control group participants who took a placebo. 

Creatine and hair loss

Does this mean creatine could spell disaster for your do? Well, creatine boosts DHT, the usual suspect in male pattern baldness, also called androgenic alopecia. However, your disposition to hair loss and the effects of DHT is genetic, meaning that it’s inherited.

Some folks are more prone to DHT’s hair-ruffling effects because of how their androgen receptor gene is wired. Hormones like testosterone and DHT bind to androgen receptors, typically triggering normal hair growth. However, variations in the AR gene make the androgens extra effective, making you more likely to experience hair loss.

So, while there isn’t much evidence to say that creatine supplements cause hair loss, the connection to increased DHT levels is worth considering if your family reunions look like a convention for bald eagles.

Long-term effects of creatine

Beyond the potential for a breezy scalp, creatine is actually solid in the safety department, with long-term studies giving it a thumbs up. However, although creatinine doesn’t pose a risk to healthy individuals, it might not be your best move if you have kidney, high blood pressure, or liver disease.

Another thing to keep in mind is that creatinine loves to hang onto water, so expect some extra bloat and weigh-in surprises as your body adjusts. 

When to see a doctor

Thinking of starting a creatine kick? Chatting with your doctor first is always wise, especially if you have other health conditions or take medications. They can advise you and rule out any potential interactions. 

If you’re taking creatinine and notice changes to your hair, a check-up is a good idea. Shedding a few strands is normal, but it’s a red flag if you start losing clumps of hair. Rapid hair loss can indicate underlying health issues that go beyond your hairstyle. 

Furthermore, consult a doctor if hair loss is weighing on your mind. They can offer solutions or treatments to manage your hair loss and stress.

Takeaway

Creatine is celebrated for its muscle-building prowess, but rumors of a link with hair loss exist. The good news is there’s little conclusive evidence directly connecting creatine supplementation to permanent hair loss. 

However, creatine loading may boost DHT levels, a hormone linked to male pattern baldness, especially in people genetically predisposed to hair thinning. 

So, if you’re concerned about hair loss, it might be wise to talk with a doctor before adding creatine supplements to your muscle-building routine. 

Key takeaways

• A phlegmy or persistent cough may signal a respiratory infection like a cold, flu, or pneumonia, so it’s best to skip workouts until you’re feeling better.
• The “neck check” suggests that if symptoms are above the neck (mild cold, stuffy nose, minor sore throat), light exercise like walking or stretching may be okay. Symptoms below the neck (fever, chest congestion, stomach bug) mean you should rest.
• Once you’re symptom-free, ease back into exercise gradually with less intense workouts. Talk with a healthcare professional if you’re unsure when it’s safe to resume your routine.

You’re feeling a bit under the weather, but you don’t want to lose the momentum of your fitness routine. So, should you push through and hit the gym, or is it better to rest and let your body heal? Let’s break it down!

Is it a bad idea to work out when sick?

Sleep is the best way to help your body recover quickly when you’re sick. But if you’re determined to rise and grind, you could use the “neck check” to decide whether to lace up those sneakers or stay in bed.

Many sports doctors use this theory to say that if your symptoms are above the neck — sniffles, sore throat, or a mild headache — you’re generally good to go for a light workout. But if you’re dealing with chest congestion, a hacking or juicy cough, diarrhea, a fever, or an upset stomach, it’s better to take some time to catch up on your Netflix watchlist.

Big disclaimer: there’s little scientific evidence behind the “neck check,” so use your best judgment. 

When is it safe to exercise?

If you’re going with the above-the-neck rule, exercising with the following symptoms is probably okay.

Mild cold

Going super hard if you have a mild cold is not a good idea. But a light workout, like a walk or a chill Peloton sesh, can be a great way to stay active without overdoing it. Stretching or light yoga might also do the trick. 

Minor earache

Stick to light activities like walking for most earaches. Avoid intense workouts like weightlifting, yoga, or pilates, as they can throw off your balance and put pressure on your sinuses, exacerbating the pain.

Mild sore throat

Light and short workouts are likely fine if your sore throat is mild and lacks fever, cough, or swallowing issues. Remember to stay hydrated — it can ease your sore throat and is beneficial during exercise.

Stuffy nose

Light activities like brisk walks or gentle bike rides can help for allergy-related stuffy noses. If your nose is blocked, stick to very light activities, focusing on breathing. Skip workouts if you have a fever, chest congestion, or a productive cough with phlegm until you’re symptom-free.

When you shouldn’t work out

If you’re experiencing the following symptoms, the workout can wait.

Fever

Working out with a fever increases dehydration risk and can worsen the fever. Plus, fever saps your muscle strength and coordination, making you more prone to injuries. So, do yourself a favor and skip the workout until you’re back to normal. 

Cough

An occasional cough is your body’s way of clearing out irritants, but a frequent or phlegmy cough could signal a respiratory infection like a cold, flu, or even pneumonia or asthma. While a tickle-induced cough isn’t a gym deal-breaker, a persistent one is.

Stomach bug

Diarrhea and vomiting can dehydrate you, and physical activity only makes that dehydration worse. Feeling weak? That’s a recipe for injury. Plus, stomach bugs are highly contagious. If you feel antsy, stick to light stretching or yoga at home.

Flu

The flu hits your respiratory system hard, with symptoms like fever, chills, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, headache, cough, and congestion. If you’ve got the flu, take it easy and give your body some well-earned R&R.

When can you workout again?

Once symptom-free, ease back into exercise gradually. Start with less intense workouts to avoid overdoing it. As your symptoms fade, you can gradually return to normal activity.

Regular exercise may shorten recovery time, particularly for acute respiratory infections. Listen to your body’s signals to gauge your strength. If you’re still contagious, opt for home or outdoor workouts, so you don’t spread those germs to fellow gym-goers.

Takeaway

You probably shouldn’t workout if you have:

• a fever
• a bad cough
• stomach bug
• flu

You may be able to exercise if you’re dealing with something minor, such as a:

• mild cold
• minor earache
• mild sore throat
• stuffy nose

P.S. Check in with a healthcare provider if you’re unsure when it’s safe to start exercising again.

Key takeaways

• Strength tattoos like lions, eagles, bears, oak trees, and phoenixes can serve as visual reminders of courage, resilience, and personal triumphs.
• Symbolic designs such as dragons, butterflies, semicolons, and lotus flowers may represent transformation, continuation of your story, and beauty emerging from struggle.
• Before getting inked, consider the personal meaning, location and size, artist expertise, studio safety practices, and proper aftercare to ensure your tattoo heals beautifully.

Permanent body art has moved from the back alleys into the mainstream, bringing with it a whole new world of reasons why peeps choose to get inked. Gone are the days when tattoo styles were just anchors, skulls, or hearts declaring “Mom.” Now, they’re as meaningful as they are beautiful, acting as marks of personal history, pains, and triumphs. 

Whether it’s a butterfly’s whisper or a dragon’s roar, each tattoo carries a weight far beyond its visual appeal. If you’re thinking of getting inked with a symbol of inner strength, continue reading to learn more about tattoo designs that adorn your body and serve as powerful reminders of who you are and all you’ve overcome.

Symbols of strength in tattoos

Ready to wear your strength on your sleeve — or wherever you fancy? Consider these epic tattoo symbols to amp up your style and shout out your inner power and resilience:

• Lion: Step aside, Simba! This isn’t a Disney reboot. A lion tattoo is a roaring manifesto of courage and kingship. Perfect for anyone who’s ever felt like the ruler of their own wild life or survived a jungle of challenges.
• Eagle: Not only for the patriotic at heart, the eagle tattoo screams freedom and high-flying dreams. This birdy skin art could be a solid choice if you’re all about soaring through life on your own terms while aiming for the sky.
• Bear: A bear tattoo shows strength mixed with a pinch of wisdom. It’s the ultimate mark for peeps who protect what’s theirs and stand tall even when going solo feels like the only option.
• Oaktree: The oak tree is nature’s OG survivor. These incredible trees are deeply rooted with branches that can weather any storm. It’s the ideal symbol for anyone who’s ever stood firm despite all the fuckery that life throws their way.
• Phoenix: Talk about a glow-up from the ashes! The phoenix tattoo is about overcoming, rebirthing, and slaying despite the odds. Snap this up if you’ve ever turned an ending into a beginning. 

Symbolism tattoos

If you fancy a little more mystique or modern symbolism with your skin art, try these tattoo designs:

• Dragon tattoo: Channel this mythical beast for a tattoo about mastery, mystery, and not taking no for an answer when fate breathes fire.
• Butterfly tattoo: Who said change has to be painful? Okay, it often is, but a butterfly tattoo celebrates graceful transformation. A butterfly tat could work well if you’ve come through a metamorphosis with your wings outstretched.
• Semicolon tattoos: The semicolon tattoo is a powerful pause, showing that you chose to continue your story when things got tough. More than a grammatical symbol, this inking shows the world that your story isn’t over.
• Lotus tattoo: From murky waters rises the pristine lotus. This tattoo is for anyone who’s ever found beauty and strength in their struggle, showing that purity and beauty can emerge from the darkest waters.

Considerations before getting a tattoo

Loving the tattoo ideas, and you’re ready to ink? Hold that needle! Here’s what you need to mull over first:

• Meaning: Tattoos are forever (sort of), so it’s vital that the symbolism behind your chosen design truly resonates. Yes, it’s about aesthetics, but it’s about finding something that holds deep personal significance, a symbol that will still mean something to you years later.
• Location and size: Where do you want your tat? And what size? A sleeve might not be ideal if you’re in a conservative career, whereas a tiny tattoo on your ankle might give you the subtlety you need. Location and size impact the visibility and impact of your ink, so choose wisely based on your lifestyle.
• Artist: Not every tattoo artist is a fit for your specific vision. Do your homework and research artists who specialize in the tattoo style you want, whether photorealistic, traditional, or watercolor. Look at portfolios, read reviews, and meet in person to ensure they understand your vision. 
• Safety: The importance of getting inked in a sterile, professional environment cannot be overstated. Check that the studio follows rigorous health and safety practices to avoid the risk of infection or complications. This means everything from sterilized equipment to disposable needles.
• Aftercare: Proper aftercare ensures your tattoo heals beautifully and stays vibrant. Follow the aftercare instructions given by your artist, such as keeping the tattoo clean, moisturized, and out of the sun.

Takeaway

Tattoos are powerful, personal, and permanent. They’re your stories, triumphs, and sometimes secrets, inked in indelible lines. 

Whether you choose a symbol of strength, a marker of memory, or a declaration of independence, a tattoo can empower and inspire you. So, take your time and th-ink about it carefully!

Key takeaways

• European beauty standards prioritize light skin and eyes, thin bodies and noses, and straight hair. These ideals center whiteness and exclude Black, Indigenous, Arab, and Asian, Pacific Islander people.
• Research shows these standards harm self-esteem and create real-world consequences, from job discrimination against Black women with natural hairstyles to young children internalizing negative beliefs about their appearance.
• Moving past these beauty standards requires ongoing change at every level, including diverse representation in media and gatekeepers with varied backgrounds who can reimagine beauty ideals beyond vanity.

Though we see flickers of progress come and go, European beauty standards — which essentially worship white physical features as the best — are still prevailing across popular culture.

Keep reading to learn more about the damaging beauty ideal. Plus, hear from Siena Liggins, an independent artist and songwriter, about how it affects the music industry and what’s necessary for change.

What are the beauty standards in Europe?

European beauty standards focus on specific physical features, including light skin and eyes, thin bodies and noses, and poker-straight hair, to name a few.

“It’s honestly just a trickle effect of something that just exists in our culture on a very wide scale,” Liggins says about European beauty standards.

How do European beauty standards differ from American? 

The Western ideal defines beauty through thinness and whiteness, something American culture was all about for, you know, ever.

But beauty standards often shift in America, moving from one extreme like the rail-thin “heroin chic” look in the 90s to today’s adoration of big butts and busts, with a focus on exercise.

Still, whiteness remains the most represented ideal, and we still obsess over thin bodies, regularly debating which celebrities may or may not be on weight loss medication.

What are Eurocentric beauty notions?

The impression the European beauty standards leave us with is that those who most closely match the call for light skin and eyes, thin noses, etc., are the best or most attractive people — leaving some people of color to internalize the messaging, resulting in feelings of self-hate.

Why European beauty standards are harmful

This Western beauty ideal is not only exclusionary — shutting out Black, Indigenous, Arab, and Asian, Pacific Islander people — but it’s also deeply harmful.

The standard is unmistakably splashed across the entertainment and beauty industries, from not finding your makeup shade to not seeing your features represented in media.

It also penetrates our daily work and play, creating societal issues and difficulty with self-esteem that impacts everything from securing and keeping a job to socializing and education, starting as young as nursery school.  

For one workplace example, a 2020 study found that white women or Black women with straightened hair are more likely to land job interviews than Black women wearing natural hairstyles like afros, twists, curls, or braids.

Some of the first research on skin color and self-perception among Black children included “the doll test.” Researchers presented Black children, aged 3–7, with four dolls that all looked the same — except for their skin color — and asked them a series of questions about which dolls were nicest or prettiest and which they liked best.

Two-thirds of the Black children chose the white doll. The test was repeated in a similar way in 2005, with 16 of the 21 preschool-aged Black children selecting the white doll.

Needless to say, the beauty standard also negatively impacts the educational system, romantic relationships, and a slew of other dynamics and environments. 

How can we move past European beauty standards?

“The reality is that you need people to challenge them if you’re ever going to see anything change,” Liggins says about beauty standards.

She points to “AMERICAN REQUIEM,” one song off Beyoncé’s country album Cowboy Carter.

“She talks about how for things to stay the same, they have to change again,” Liggins explains. Though she believes Beyoncé refers to a hope for peace and healing in the United States, Liggins says this concept can lend to beauty standards.

When it comes to the idealistic view that we put on celebrities and pop culture, Liggins says you have to reimagine what it looks like over and over again. “And what that requires is letting in new people, and it can’t just be from a vanity’s perspective,” Liggins says.

Coupled with who is represented in music videos, Liggins says change is also needed at a gatekeeper level. “It has to be the people who are coming up with the ideas and bringing them into fruition who also have to have diversity, not just a thought but of background, culture, and ethnicity,” she says.

Otherwise, Liggins says, we’ll only continue to see spikes in diversity, making inclusion more of a fad than a serious change.

Key takeaways

• For some people living with anxiety, tattoos serve as visual reminders of their strength and resilience, helping them reclaim control over their mental health narrative and transform invisible struggles into tangible art.
• Research suggests tattoos may correlate with mental health in complex ways. Some studies link them to self-harm history, while others show tattooed individuals reporting higher self-esteem, better body image, and fewer mental health struggles.
• Getting a tattoo can positively affect mental health for many people, with one study showing decreased appearance anxiety and increased body appreciation and self-esteem 3 weeks after getting inked.

Tattoos have long been a flex in personal expression and artistry. For some peeps, they’re the go-to for commemorating life wins or solidifying deep-seated beliefs — from quotes that got you through dark times or portraits of your fave pets.

The act of getting inked can also be a profoundly therapeutic experience. The machine’s buzz and the needle’s sharp sting are part of a ritual that may help bring internal battles to the surface. But is there a link between anxiety and the decision to get tatted? Could framing your fears and anxieties in gorgeous designs help you cope? Continue reading to find out. 

Why do people with anxiety have tattoos?

For many, tattoos are much more than art. Peeps who have anxiety may get tattoos as a way of taking control over their narrative, including their mental health struggles. 

Anxiety disorder makes life challenging, and you may feel you’re stuck in a rip tide of continual worry, fear, and dread. Even if you know it’s the anxiety talking, you can still struggle to contain these overwhelming feelings, and it’s exhausting. Anxiety can trick your mind, tell you you’re unworthy, and there’s no way out. 

But here’s where tattoos come into play — they create a visual shoutout to your strength and resilience. Imagine marking your skin with reminders of the battles you’ve won and what you’ve overcome.

Getting inked can feel like grabbing the reins back from anxiety and stress. A tattoo is an affirmation. It can turn your invisible battle scars into something tangible and beautiful, giving a sense of ownership over your body and experiences. This is huge when anxiety tries to convince you that you don’t have a say in your own story.

Whether it’s a poignant quote, a symbolic image, or just a badass design, a tattoo packs a punch of personal significance and your enduring strength. You’ve taken a deliberate, proactive step to help you take greater control over your life, and that should be celebrated. 

Is there a psychological reason people get tattoos?

Psychologically, tattoos are visual high-fives to yourself. For the anxious folks, tats are a way to take those messy, abstract feelings and pin them down in something real and tangible. 

There’s also some evidence to suggest that the pain involved in tattooing can be cathartic, offering a physical release for emotional pain. This could explain why people who self-harm or live with substance misuse or eating disorders might be drawn to the tattoo chair — it’s a place where psychological pain is acknowledged and artistically transformed.

Do tattoos correlate with mental health?

Research suggests there may be correlations between tattoos and mental health.

One 2013 study involving 65 female participants living with anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder explored the relationship between eating disorders, self-injury, and tattoos. Around 51% of the participants reported a history of self-injury, and 27% had at least one tattoo. Those with tattoos were more likely to have a history of self-harm, so the authors suggested that tats could be a form of self-punishment. 

However, in an interesting twist, 27% of those with tattoos showed no history of self-injury. These peeps reported more positive body image, higher self-esteem, and fewer mental health struggles.

The relationship between tats and mental health is complex and still being decoded. Further research would help confirm the link between the two. 

Are tattoos good or bad for mental health?

Tattoos can swing either way on the mental health seesaw. For some folks, getting tattooed is symbolic of their healing process. It says, “Hey, I’ve been through some stuff, but look how I’ve grown!” These tattoos often become symbols of a deeply personal journey, spotlighting moments of triumph over anxiety and depression.

But here’s the flip side: if someone gets inked on a whim or during a rough patch without much thought, that tattoo could be a permanent reminder of a not-so-great time. 

In a 2011 study of 82 peeps getting their first tattoo, researchers measured their feelings about their appearance and body both before they got the tattoo and then again immediately and three weeks after the tattooing. The findings showed that right after getting their tattoos, folks of all genders experienced a decrease in appearance anxiety and dissatisfaction. Three weeks later, they reported increased body appreciation, a stronger sense of having a distinctive appearance, heightened feelings of uniqueness, and improved self-esteem. However, female folks experienced increased anxiety related to how others viewed their physique 3 weeks post-tattoo, while males reported a decrease in this type of anxiety. 

These results suggest that getting a tattoo can positively affect mental health, but of course, the impact varies among individuals. 

Takeaway

Tattoos can be an artistic strategy to enhance your mental health game, but it’s crucial to take a beat and really think it through before you get inked. 

Whether you’re looking to mark a milestone, manage the mayhem of anxiety, or remind yourself that everything will be okay, a carefully considered tattoo can be a meaningful addition to your narrative, helping you manage anxiety and positively shaping your story.

Key takeaways

• True protein deficiency is rare in the U.S., where most people get about 15% of their calories from protein, but low intake can still cause noticeable symptoms.
• Signs of insufficient protein include increased hunger, brittle nails, thinning hair, flaky skin, reduced muscle mass, and a harder time fighting off infections.
• To boost your protein intake, focus on foods like chicken, turkey, eggs, fish, tofu, beans, nuts, and whole grains. A doctor can check your protein levels with a blood test.

If you’re concerned you’re not getting enough protein in your diet, let us be the first to share some good news: Most Americans consume around 15% of their calories from this macro, making true protein deficiency rare in the U.S.

Still, that doesn’t mean protein deficiency never happens. Here are signs and symptoms to watch out for.

What is protein deficiency?

Protein is responsible for giving structure to your cells, creating hormones and enzymes, and building muscle. A deficiency means you’re not taking in enough to support your body’s needs. Your doctor can diagnose a protein deficiency by testing your blood for total protein, albumin (a specific protein), and the ratio of albumin to globulin (another protein).

What are the symptoms of protein deficiency?

These seven symptoms could be indicators that you’re not hitting your protein recommendations.

You might get swole… but not in a good way

When people become severely low in protein — a condition known as kwashiorkor — the body responds by removing water from blood vessels and sending it into tissues. The result: edema (aka swelling).

It’s worth noting, though that this symptom is highly unlikely in the developed world. Most cases of kwashiorkor occur in poverty-stricken regions of the world where people experience starvation.

Your appetite could go through the roof

Research shows that protein is the most satiating of the three macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbs). Don’t be surprised if you feel extra hungry when you’re not eating enough of it.

To keep yourself feeling full, try increasing your protein intake with foods like:

• chicken
• turkey
• eggs
• fish
• tofu
• beans
• nuts
• whole grains

You could land with a fatty liver

Especially in developing countries, low protein intake has been linked to fatty liver, a condition that can cause liver inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure. Though the mechanism behind this connection isn’t totally clear, research suggests that high-protein diets are more beneficial for fatty liver than low-protein diets.

Your skin, hair, and nails might suffer

Since protein provides the backbone for skin, hair, and nail cells, a deficiency can cause undesirable changes to these body parts. Brittle nails, thinning hair, and flaky skin may all indicate a need for more protein.

Your muscle mass might shrink

Protein builds muscle, so it only makes sense that you may have lower muscle mass when you’re deficient. In a 2022 study on nearly 16,000 adults, the prevalence of low muscle mass significantly increased with lower protein intake.

On the other hand, eating enough protein can boost muscle growth and strength. According to a 2018 study, protein intake promotes gains in lean body mass beyond what you’ll get with resistance exercise alone. (Though combining protein with strength training is the best way to build and tone muscles.)

You could risk bone fractures

When you think “protein,” muscle may be the first thing that comes to mind. But muscles aren’t the only body parts impacted by this macro. Protein deficiency also affects bones.

An older study found that protein deficiency caused marked bone mass deterioration, while 2019 research found that a higher protein intake was associated with reduced hip fractures in older people.

You might have a hard time fighting off infections

If you’ve ever had a serious infection, your doctor may have told you to load up on high-protein foods. That’s because protein is pivotal in the body’s immune defenses. The less protein in your system, the greater your susceptibility to infection.

Takeaway

Worried you’re not getting enough of the muscle-building macro? Ask your doctor to run a blood test. If you’re truly deficient, focus on getting more protein from lean meats, eggs, fish, beans, legumes, soy foods, and dairy products.

Key takeaways

• True protein deficiency is rare in the U.S., where most people get about 15% of their calories from protein, but low intake can still cause noticeable symptoms.
• Signs of insufficient protein include increased hunger, brittle nails, thinning hair, flaky skin, reduced muscle mass, and a harder time fighting off infections.
• To boost your protein intake, focus on foods like chicken, turkey, eggs, fish, tofu, beans, nuts, and whole grains. A doctor can check your protein levels with a blood test.

If you’re concerned you’re not getting enough protein in your diet, let us be the first to share some good news: Most Americans consume around 15% of their calories from this macro, making true protein deficiency rare in the U.S.

Still, that doesn’t mean protein deficiency never happens. Here are signs and symptoms to watch out for.

What is protein deficiency?

Protein is responsible for giving structure to your cells, creating hormones and enzymes, and building muscle. A deficiency means you’re not taking in enough to support your body’s needs. Your doctor can diagnose a protein deficiency by testing your blood for total protein, albumin (a specific protein), and the ratio of albumin to globulin (another protein).

What are the symptoms of protein deficiency?

These seven symptoms could be indicators that you’re not hitting your protein recommendations.

You might get swole… but not in a good way

When people become severely low in protein — a condition known as kwashiorkor — the body responds by removing water from blood vessels and sending it into tissues. The result: edema (aka swelling).

It’s worth noting, though that this symptom is highly unlikely in the developed world. Most cases of kwashiorkor occur in poverty-stricken regions of the world where people experience starvation.

Your appetite could go through the roof

Research shows that protein is the most satiating of the three macronutrients (protein, fat, and carbs). Don’t be surprised if you feel extra hungry when you’re not eating enough of it.

To keep yourself feeling full, try increasing your protein intake with foods like:

• chicken
• turkey
• eggs
• fish
• tofu
• beans
• nuts
• whole grains

You could land with a fatty liver

Especially in developing countries, low protein intake has been linked to fatty liver, a condition that can cause liver inflammation, scarring, and even liver failure. Though the mechanism behind this connection isn’t totally clear, research suggests that high-protein diets are more beneficial for fatty liver than low-protein diets.

Your skin, hair, and nails might suffer

Since protein provides the backbone for skin, hair, and nail cells, a deficiency can cause undesirable changes to these body parts. Brittle nails, thinning hair, and flaky skin may all indicate a need for more protein.

Your muscle mass might shrink

Protein builds muscle, so it only makes sense that you may have lower muscle mass when you’re deficient. In a 2022 study on nearly 16,000 adults, the prevalence of low muscle mass significantly increased with lower protein intake.

On the other hand, eating enough protein can boost muscle growth and strength. According to a 2018 study, protein intake promotes gains in lean body mass beyond what you’ll get with resistance exercise alone. (Though combining protein with strength training is the best way to build and tone muscles.)

You could risk bone fractures

When you think “protein,” muscle may be the first thing that comes to mind. But muscles aren’t the only body parts impacted by this macro. Protein deficiency also affects bones.

An older study found that protein deficiency caused marked bone mass deterioration, while 2019 research found that a higher protein intake was associated with reduced hip fractures in older people.

You might have a hard time fighting off infections

If you’ve ever had a serious infection, your doctor may have told you to load up on high-protein foods. That’s because protein is pivotal in the body’s immune defenses. The less protein in your system, the greater your susceptibility to infection.

Takeaway

Worried you’re not getting enough of the muscle-building macro? Ask your doctor to run a blood test. If you’re truly deficient, focus on getting more protein from lean meats, eggs, fish, beans, legumes, soy foods, and dairy products.