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What Science Says About These 4 TikTok-Famous Lower Belly Workouts

October 4, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: Lia_Russy/Shutterstock

Struggling with stubborn lower belly fat? You’re not alone. Many people find it challenging to achieve a flat stomach, despite their best efforts. While a balanced diet is crucial for weight loss, targeted exercises can play a significant role in toning and strengthening your abdominal muscles. Recently, Athina Fit, a popular fitness trainer on TikTok, shared four exercises she believes can help you sculpt a more defined midsection ¹. These moves are designed to engage your core muscles effectively, potentially helping you on your journey to a flatter stomach. But before you jump into a new workout routine, it’s important …

18 Bipolar Phrases That Can Hurt Rather Than Help When Speaking to Someone

October 3, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Photo Credit: Antonio Guillem/Shutterstock

To foster better understanding and support, here are 18 things you should never say to someone with bipolar disorder. Bipolar disorder affects millions worldwide, with an estimated 2.8% of U.S. adults diagnosed.1 This complex mental health condition, characterized by extreme mood swings between manic highs and depressive lows, can significantly impact a person’s life. Living with bipolar disorder is challenging enough without having to deal with insensitive comments from others. Even well-meaning friends and family can sometimes say the wrong thing, causing hurt feelings or misunderstandings. While most people don’t intend to be hurtful, these 18 phrases can be particularly …

15 Facts About How Your Brain Powers Your Every Move

October 3, 2024 by Nancy Maffia

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The brain is the most complex organ in the body that’s constantly working behind the scenes to keep you alive, thinking, and feeling. As we go about your day, this powerful brain of ours is making it all possible. Have you ever wondered just how amazing your brain really is and how it works? 1. Your Brain Uses a Lot of Energy Did you know your brain uses about 20% of your body’s energy? Despite being only about 2% of your body weight, it consumes a significant amount of your energy. (ref) This high energy use is essential for maintaining …

The Signs of Premature Menopause & What You Can Do About Them

October 2, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: Freedom Life/Shutterstock

Are you in your 30s and experiencing hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods? You might be facing premature menopause. This condition, affecting 1% of women under 40, can be a scary and isolating experience.1 Imagine going through “the change” decades earlier than expected, grappling with fertility issues and health risks typically associated with older women. But with increased awareness and medical advancements, women are finding ways to navigate this unexpected life transition. Understanding Premature Menopause Premature menopause, also known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), occurs when a woman’s ovaries stop functioning normally before the age of 40. This condition …

Need More Energy & Motivation? 10 Tips to Boost Your Dopamine

October 1, 2024 by Nancy Maffia

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Feeling sluggish, unmotivated, and just plain blah? You might be experiencing a low dopamine day. This crucial neurotransmitter plays a vital role in motivation, pleasure, and reward-seeking behavior.1 When dopamine levels dip, life can feel like wading through molasses. But fear not! There are natural ways to give your brain’s “feel-good” chemical a much-needed boost. From simple lifestyle tweaks to dietary changes, these 10 strategies can help you reclaim your spark and zest for life. 1. Get Moving with Exercise Lace-up those sneakers and get your heart pumping! Regular physical activity is a powerful dopamine booster. Studies show that exercise …

8 Things You Didn’t Know Could Happen When You Eat Tomatoes Every Day

October 1, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: Bogdan Sonjachnyj/Shutterstock

Tomatoes are more than just a vibrant addition to your salad; they’re a powerhouse of health benefits waiting to unleash their potential with every bite. Often underestimated, these humble fruits (yes, scientifically speaking, they’re fruits!) are staples in cuisines around the world, celebrated not only for their versatility and flavor but also for their impressive health benefits. Learn what happens to your body when you incorporate tomatoes into your diet regularly. Let’s unfold the layers of this red wonder. 1. Boosts Heart Health Regular consumption of tomatoes can significantly boost your cardiovascular health. Tomatoes are rich in potassium, a mineral …

Breathe Your Way to Calm: 6 Simple Techniques for Easing Anxiety

October 1, 2024 by Nancy Maffia

Image Credit: AntonioGuillemF/Deposit Photos

As the world navigates uncertain times, finding effective ways to manage stress has become crucial. Breathing exercises, long used in yoga and meditation practices, have gained attention as a simple yet powerful tool for anxiety relief. 1. Box Breathing: The 4-4-4-4 Method Box breathing, also known as square breathing, is a technique used by Navy SEALs to maintain composure under pressure. Here’s how to do it: By focusing on counting and controlling your breath, box breathing helps slow your heart rate and promotes a sense of calm (ref). 2. Diaphragmatic Breathing: Engaging Your Core Diaphragmatic breathing, or belly breathing, involves …

The Pica Struggle: Why Some Black Women Have an Urge to Eat Dirt

October 1, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: F01 PHOTO/Shutterstock

Have you ever had an irresistible urge to eat something that’s not food? For some Black women, this isn’t just a passing fancy—it’s a real disorder called pica. From munching on clay to chomping on ice, pica cravings go beyond typical pregnancy cravings.1 This often-overlooked condition is particularly prevalent among African American women, yet remains shrouded in secrecy and shame. Pica is defined as the habitual consumption of nonfood and non-nutritive substances for at least one year. Why is pica so prevalent in this community, and what are the potential health risks? More Than Just Weird Cravings Pica is an …

The Rise of ‘Sober Curiosity’ Among Millennials & Gen Z

October 1, 2024 by Nancy Maffia

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The younger generations are turning away from alcohol, embracing a “sober curious” lifestyle that’s shaking up the beverage industry.1 Millennials and Gen Z are leading a revolution in drinking habits, opting for mocktails or non-alcoholic beers over traditional boozy options. This shift isn’t just a passing trend; it’s a cultural movement rooted in health consciousness, financial savvy, and a desire for more meaningful social connections. From alcohol-free bars popping up in major cities to the booming market for zero-proof spirits, the sober curious movement is reshaping how we think about socializing and unwinding. But what are the reasons behind this …

Say Goodbye to Lower Back Pain with These 15 Yoga Poses

September 30, 2024 by Martha A. Lavallie

Image Credit: Matej Kastelic/Shutterstock

According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, about 80% of adults experience low back pain at some point in their lives. But what if relief was just a yoga mat away?1 These 15 secret yoga moves might instantly eliminate your lower back pain. 1. Cat-Cow Pose The Cat-Cow pose is a dynamic duo that gets your spine moving and blood flowing. This gentle, rhythmic movement helps lubricate the joints and stretch the back muscles, providing instant relief for many back pain sufferers. To perform this pose, start on your hands and knees. As you inhale, drop your …