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Your Water Bottle Could Be Making You Sick—Here Are the Best Ways to Clean It + MORE

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Your Water Bottle Could Be Making You Sick—Here Are the Best Ways to Clean It

– health.com

That trusty reusable water bottle you carry with you keeps you healthy and hydrated, but only if it’s clean. And let's face it: Most of us don’t think to clean out our water bottles. More often than not, we take that last sip, refill it, and sip some more—on repeat.

Whether your water bottle is stainless steel, plastic, or made from another hard material, it’s important to sanitize it at the end of each day. “Since it’s a moist environment, it's possible for bacteria to set up shop and thrive, potentially leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea,” says Robert Glatter, MD, an assistant professor of emergency medicine at Northwell Health and attending emergency physician at Lenox Hill Hospital.

RELATED: 12 Reasons Why Dehydration Is Bad for Your Body

Give the cap, as well as the straw if your bottle has one, a good cleansing too. “Bacteria such as E. coli that lead to gastroenteritis and food poisoning and even molds could colonize this area,” he says. You can even take a step further and scrub this area with a special bottle brush or toothbrush for a real deep clean. Or just get in the habit of using one of these simple and easy methods. Find one that works for you and aim for aim for consistency.

RELATED: 12 Germs That Cause Food Poisoning

The dishwasher

Many types of water bottles are dishwasher safe, but check that it says so on the bottle first. “Place bottle and top in the top rack, making sure that the bottle does not interfere with the spray arms if your model has them at the top,” says Donna Smallin Kuper, IICRC-certified house cleaning technician and author of Cleaning Plain & Simple. Then, run the dishwasher with the hottest water settings and a heated dry cycle, which will kill germs. It should be totally dry before you reuse it; moisture can be a breeding ground for bugs.

Soap and water

Washing by hand with a sudsy mix of dishwashing liquid and hot water is a safe and effective cleaning method, Kuper says. Be sure to wash and dry off with a clean cloth (or paper towel) to avoid reintroducing any bacteria or other harmful bugs. Swish the soapy water through the entire bottle, same way as you'd wash out a coffee cup or other used glass or mug, and make sure you get rid of any gunky buildup on the bottom or by the cap area. Then rinse with water to remove any soap residue before drying.

RELATED: 7 Best Water Bottles Health's Editors Swear By

Vinegar

That bottle of vinegar in your pantry can also disinfect your water bottle. “You can also use dilute vinegar, which helps to kill most bacteria (not viruses though), while also serving as a drying agent,” says Dr. Glatter. “Fill half of the bottle with white vinegar, the other half with water,” he says. (Make sure you use about ¼ cup of vinegar.) Close the bottle and let is swish around before leaving it to soak…

The Best Lip Balm Is Actually a Nipple Cream—Seriously

– health.com

Most people associate them with winter, but for me, at least, chapped lips are a year-round concern. Salt water, UV rays, and air conditioning always seem to dry out my pout just as much as winter's low humidity and freezing temps, if not more so—which means I'm constantly on the lookout for hero products that will lock in moisture once and for all.

If, like me, your lips are chronically chapped and regular balms aren't doing the trick, you might want to turn to an unlikely source: nipple cream.

"Nipple creams are super-hydrating," says New York City dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD, author of Skin Rules. "You only have to dab a small amount to get your lips fully covered, and it doesn't just sit on top of your lips, but penetrates it."

Since the main purpose of these creams is to soothe the nipples of breastfeeding moms, they're completely safe to have near your mouth. The formulas are usually clear with a thick consistency that's heavier than Vaseline, Dr. Jaliman adds.

Here, three ultra moisturizing nipple creams that double as the best lip balm you've ever tried.

• Lansinoh HPA Lanolin ($9; amazon.com). Queer Eye's Jonathan Van Ness recently shared a photo of this lanolin salve on Instagram, revealing that both he and co-star Tan France use it. Dr. Jaliman is also a fan: "Many lactation consultants recommend 100% lanolin nipple creams such as this one," she tells us. And if that didn't already convince you, the bestselling product also boasts more than 2,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.

• Dr. Lipp Original Nipple Balm ($15; amazon.com). This ultra-rich formula (which also contains pure lanolin) is a personal favorite of mine. A little bit of this stuff goes a long way—dab on the tiniest pea-sized amount at night, and wake up to the super-soft lips of your dreams the next morning.

• Earth Mama Organic Nipple Butter ($8; amazon.com). Although 100% lanolin creams are usually recommended—the ingredient, comprised of a combination of lipids, is great for skin, Dr. Jaliman says—it's not uncommon to be allergic to it. Those with a lanolin allergy can still reap nipple cream's ultra-moisturizing benefits, though. Dr. Jaliman recommends this plant-based formula from Earth Mama; it's lanolin- and petroleum-free, made with organic calendula and oils.

This SoulCycle Instructor Talks About His Two Near-Death Experiences—and How They Changed His Life

– health.com

Noa Shaw isn’t your typical SoulCycle instructor. “I lived this crazy dangerous life, filled with failed attempts of sobriety, bad eating to bad health,” he explains in the video above.

It all started when he was just a kid, and his best friend’s older brothers introduced him to drugs and alcohol. “They thought it would be fun to see what effect drugs and alcohol would have on a 10-year-old,” Shaw says. “I tried everything. There was always that desire to disregard my well-being in the hopes of pleasing other people, constantly trying to fill that void.”

He eventually reached a breaking point and called his father.

“I said, ‘Dad, I think I’m gonna kill myself,’” he recalls. “And my father responded, ‘If that’s what you have to do, that’s what you have to do.’ And he hung up on me. That was the moment that it started to turn. I decided that I had had enough.”

Shaw attended an AA meeting, and never looked back. Today, he hasn’t had a drink in 30 years. He got a job working in a rehab facility, where he would talk to others about making positive changes. But he realized that since he had gotten sober, he was relying on other risky habits.

“One of the things you do with clients is redirection. So if we’re sitting in a place and a client’s having a hard time, I’ll say, ‘Come on, let’s go have a cigarette. Let’s go have something to eat,’” he says. “And it was cigarette, food, cigarette, food—then all of a sudden, I looked up one day and I was 300 pounds, smoking four packs of cigarettes a day.”

RELATED VIDEO: I Tried the Intense New SoulCycle Class That Has Everyone Freaking Out

Shaw’s doctor didn’t sugarcoat his health issues. He told Shaw that his heart was going to explode: “You’ll be dead before you hit the ground.”

That same day, SoulCycle opened their first California studio in West Hollywood.

“The first class I signed up for, I picked a bike near the door, so that if I died during class, they would have an easier time getting my body out of the room,” he says. “But during that class, I remembered back to what I’d gone through in my life and I thought, ‘I’m not gonna die from being fat. If I’m gonna go, I’m gonna go out fighting.’”

Within four months, Shaw lost 100 pounds and became a fixture at his local studio. His fellow riders would call in, asking if he was signed up. He wasn’t just working out and losing weight—he was inspiring those around him.

Then one day an instructor asked him if he’d have any interest in teaching? “This was only 120 days after I was a 300-pound person about to die,” Shaw says. “I left seven days later with a one-way plane ticket to New York, and I said, ‘I’m home…

Fresh Box

7 Concealers Makeup Artists Swear By + MORE

[brightcove:5480338449001 default] Concealer: the life-changing beauty product that can bring you from Walking Dead status to walk-the-runway-ready in a couple of swipes. And as any woman who has ever tried to cover her dark circles or acne marks knows, concealer comes in so many formulas that it.... More »

Watch Jennifer Lopez Leg Press Nearly 300 Pounds Like It's Nothing + MORE

If you thought Jennifer Lopez accepting Alex Rodriguez's marriage proposal mid-leg extensions would be her best gym moment this week, think again. Lopez is back with another look at her workouts, this time showing everyone how leg presses are done. Lopez posted a video to Insta.... More »

Model Molly Sims Just Shared a 20-Minute Circuit Workout on Instagram—and Her Abs Look Amazing   + MORE

In a perfect world, you’d have unlimited time every day to work out—with plenty of time left over to shower and sip a smoothie afterward. In reality, you’re lucky if you can even make it to the gym, and even model Molly Sims, 46, knows that struggle.  Her solution? Quick 20.... More »

Everything You Need to Know About HIIPA: The Exercise Trend for People Who Don’t Have Time to Work Out

Let’s face it: On some days, you just don't have the time to spend a full hour clocking miles on the treadmill or pumping weights at the squat rack. You already have one thousand other things on your to-do list, and unfortunately, working out doesn’t always make the cut. We g.... More »

Continue Reading

Your Water Bottle Could Be Making You Sick—Here Are the Best Ways to Clean Ithealth.com
The Best Lip Balm Is Actually a Nipple Cream—Seriouslyhealth.com
This SoulCycle Instructor Talks About His Two Near-Death Experiences—and How They Changed His Lifehealth.com

3 Sports Bras for Big Boobs That Actually Work + MORE

Beauty and health are wonderful areas to dedicate one’s
life. We have seen the simple addition of hair with Invisablend’s hair
extensions and treatments cause an immediate increase in our client’s confidence
and life enjoyment. We encourage you to do the little things that make you feel
good and give you confidence. It will have a dynamic effect on your quality of
life.

Jennifer Lopez Posts Ab-Filled Gym Selfie Ahead of Her 49th Birthday

– health.com

 

Jennifer Lopez has her birthday suit ready!

The singer shared an ab-filled gym selfie on Sunday, just a few days ahead of her 49th birthday, which is Tuesday.

“#SundayFunday kind of…,” Lopez posted on Instagram. “Gotta get it in… now let the fun begin!! #birthdayweekbegins”

With her birthday coming up—and an even bigger one next year—the mom of two gets tons of questions about how she manages to look and feel so young.

“Listen, at some point, I’m going to age,” Lopez joked to emmy magazine. “They’ll say, ‘She looks old!’ But, right now, I’m holding it together.”

Even her boyfriend, former MLB star Alex Rodriguez, is consistently amazed by her energy.

“The other day, Alex was across the lawn, and I brought him something, and then I ran away. And he said, ‘You run like you’re 25 years old,’ ” Lopez recalled. “I haven’t stopped that pace, so I’m still at that pace, I guess. When things start aching more, it’ll be different.”

RELATED VIDEO: Jennifer Lopez Jokes She’s ‘Holding It Together’ Ahead of Turning 50: ‘At Some Point I’m Going to Age’

Her intense workout regimen likely helps. The Shades of Blue star does everything from Tracy Anderson classes to boxing to private sessions with trainer — and PEOPLE’s Health Squad member — David Kirsch.

“She’s amazing at everything,” Kirsch, the owner of Madison Square Club, previously told PEOPLE. “She’s genetically blessed, she’s physically gifted with an incredible amount of physical energy, but also this beautiful amount of mental and emotional energy.”

“She’s very connected to her body, and she’s got crazy discipline. And I’m not just saying that — it’s a pleasure to work with someone who is as dialed into her overall wellness as Jennifer is. When she shows up and I get 500 percent. There’s no phoning in the workout.”

These Influencers Are Posing in Swimsuits That Show Off Their Scars and Cellulite—and It's the Message We Need for Summer

– www.health.com

With summer in full swing, a lot of us are still on the hunt for the perfect swimsuit. But even when we find a suit we think is flattering, we're not always confident wearing it on the beach, at the pool, or even in our own backyards—afraid that it doesn't conceal what we view as our body flaws.

RELATED: These 13 Women Prove Every Body Is a Bikini Body

Instagram influencer and body positivity advocate Callie Thorpe, however, is here to change our minds. She recently posted a photo with a diverse group of friends and fellow influencers in Mykonos, Greece. In the photo, the women are in bathing suits sporting their cellulite, scars, bruises, and back rolls—and she can't get enough of it. (Neither can we!)

“When I saw the image, I loved how different all our bodies looked together, which inspired my post,” Thorpe tells Health.

“Diversity is beautiful and important and representation matters," she continues. "Sharing these kinds of images allows people to see bodies like theirs that aren’t airbrushed and photoshopped. It reminds people that it’s okay to embrace the things we are told to dislike, like cellulite, spots, and scars.”

In the post, Thorpe urged her followers to enjoy the best things summer has to offer—eat ice cream, head to the beach, or relax on giant pool floaties—without feeling the need to cover up or worry about what they look like in a photo. 

RELATED: These Models Have Completely Different Bodies—but 3 of Them Are Wearing the Same Size Swimsuit

What started out as a sweet shot with close friends soon turned into a viral post that resonated with so many. Fans thanked the Instagram star for her inspiring message of body acceptance, and many said it serves as a constant reminder that the skin they're in is beautiful, just the way it is.

“Body positivity is an important message to share, and it means having respect for all kinds of bodies regardless of beauty, size, abilities or genders," she says.

3 Sports Bras for Big Boobs That Actually Work

– health.com

3 Sports Bras for Big Boobs That Actually WorkIs going out for a run, getting into a downward dog, or doing burpees, jumping jacks, and box jumps a pain in the chest? That uncomfortable bouncing is a sign that your sports bra is not supportive enough—something that can not only hold you back during your workout, but can also be bad for your boobs.

Without good support, breasts move up and down during a workout, which overtime can break down the connective tissue in your breasts. A bra that restricts the movement without suffocating you will keep them healthy. The bra should also be made of breathable and moisture-wicking fabric to reduce the risk of any icky bacteria build-up.

We've rounded up three great sports bras for large chests that fit these criteria, tailored to the activities you like to do.

RELATED: The 9 Best Bralettes and Lingerie for Big Boobs

For high-impact training

To buy: Lane Bryant Maximum Support Sport Bra ($70-$80; lanebryant.com)

If you like to run or do a lot of high-impact training, this is the bra for you. It is designed to give you lots of support with full coverage so you can get right down to the nitty gritty. The thick straps won't pinch your shoulders, and they are convertible so you can adjust them into a racerback for stealthy support!

For all your cardio training

To buy: Glamorise Meduim Control Wire-Free Sports Bra ($40; barenecessities.com)

This sports bra was designed for medium-impact training like the elliptical machine, stair master, walking, hiking, and more. It provides full coverage and features adjustable straps so you can customize the fit perfectly to your needs. Best part: There is a closure in the back so you don't have to slither out of a sweaty bra post-workout.

For yoga

To buy: Wacoal Wire-Free Soft Cup Bra (starting at $20; amazon.com)

Made for ultimate comfort, this bra is best-suited for low impact activities. There is no underwire, but the cups are molded to provide enough support. The full coverage design lets you slip into downward dog (or headstand!) without worrying about your girls running loose. You may even be tempted to swap out your regular bra for this super-cozy alternative!

Fresh Box

7 Concealers Makeup Artists Swear By + MORE

[brightcove:5480338449001 default] Concealer: the life-changing beauty product that can bring you from Walking Dead status to walk-the-runway-ready in a couple of swipes. And as any woman who has ever tried to cover her dark circles or acne marks knows, concealer comes in so many formulas that it.... More »

11 New Year's Resolutions for Body Acceptance + MORE

I quit dieting at age 28 after realizing that it made my body image and eating issues worse. But after the birth of my second child—with a decade of solid body acceptance and recovery from binge eating disorder under my belt—I thought I was strong enough to dip my toe into dietl.... More »

Model Molly Sims Just Shared a 20-Minute Circuit Workout on Instagram—and Her Abs Look Amazing   + MORE

In a perfect world, you’d have unlimited time every day to work out—with plenty of time left over to shower and sip a smoothie afterward. In reality, you’re lucky if you can even make it to the gym, and even model Molly Sims, 46, knows that struggle.  Her solution? Quick 20.... More »

Tight on Workout Space? Try This Body-Weight Circuit for Small Spaces

As the weather warms, it’s easy to start slacking on your workouts—but fitting in exercise is worth it. So we’re here to help with this body-weight routine that can be done in a small space (hello, tiny hotel room). “It involves strength and stability, and gets your heart.... More »

Which Exercise Burns the Most Calories? Here's What Science Says + MORE

Your time is precious — and limited. So when it comes to working out, it’s not uncommon to wonder: what exercise burns the most calories? Exercise scientists have rigorously studied the amount of energy people expend during different types of exercise, and they’ve determined w.... More »

Continue Reading

Jennifer Lopez Posts Ab-Filled Gym Selfie Ahead of Her 49th Birthdayhealth.com
These Influencers Are Posing in Swimsuits That Show Off Their Scars and Cellulite—and It's the Message We Need for Summerwww.health.com
3 Sports Bras for Big Boobs That Actually Workhealth.com

This Woman Felt 'Electric Shocks' in Her Legs. It Turned Out She Had a Parasite in Her Spine + MORE

Hair extensions and hair treatments are just one way that Invisiblend Hair Studio helps to increase our client’s quality of life. A hair technician or hair salon specialist is more than just a stylist, they are a friend. A person to vent your week to, express your joy and life achievements, there is more than just beauty when it comes to our hair stylist.We hope the reviews and blogs and posts help your day go smother

Amazon Just Leaked an Early Prime Day Deal—and It’s Perfect for Fitness Junkies

– health.com

We firmly believe one can never have enough workout apparel. Still, it can be a real struggle to find affordable and stylish activewear that checks all our boxes: comfortable, functional, and technical. So, we were excited to learn that Amazon is going to be dropping a few Prime Day deals early this year. In addition to up to 30% off intimates on July 13, the retailer is offering up to 40% off select activewear (including their exclusive Core 10 brand, which we love) on July 15. The Core 10 collection includes classic staples like your tried-and-true black capri, as well as edgier sports bras and leggings that are still supportive for your toughest workouts. While Prime Day doesn't *officially start until July 16*, you can shop these deals a day early. Here, our top picks—from bras and tops to leggings—that you won't want to miss.

Best Prime Day sports bra deals

• Core 10 Icon Series Ballerina Sports Bra: This crossover bra has a compression fit to minimize bounce and keep everything in its place, making it ideal for yoga, barre, and dance classes.

• Core 10 Icon Series Rebel Sports Bra: A modern, sexy update to the classic sports bra that has us adding this moisture-wicking racerback in every color to our shopping cart.

• Core 10 Icon Series Supernova Star Reflective Sports Bra: This star-printed bra is not only on trend, but the reflective technology also makes it a great choice for nighttime runs. 

• Core 10 Lattice Yoga Sports Bra: Crop tops aren't going anywhere, and we're digging this supportive bra with feminine crisscross detailing at the back.

Best Prime Day legging deals

• Core 10 Tri-Color Yoga Full-Length Legging: This fashion-forward, color-blocked legging is buttery soft, but will still hold up in your HIIT sessions.

• Core 10 Onstride High Waist Run 7/8 Crop Legging: A classic black capri never goes out of style, and this one has side panel pockets for stashing your stuff.

• 7 Goals High Waist Legging: These high-waist leggings have mesh insets for added breathability. We are especially loving them in the lipstick red hue.

• Core 10 Jogger Sweatpant: Because they're so lightweight, you can wear these effortless gym-to-street joggers year round.

Best Prime Day top and jacket deals

• Core 10 'Lighter Than Air' Performance Racerback Tank: This airy tank wicks away moisture and keeps you dry through even the sweatiest circuits. 

• Core 10 'Lighter Than Air' Performance Open Back T-Shirt: A flirty back cutout makes this seemingly average tee a stylish option for workouts (or just running errands).

• Core 10 Be Warm Thermal Fitted Run Hoodie: The ultimate lightweight thermal, this hoodie is perfect for all-season running; just pull it on and go.

What's Amazon Prime Day? Everything You Need to Know About the Biggest Sale of the Year

– health.com

The fourth annual Amazon Prime Day is here, and to say we're getting excited would be a huge understatement. Here's everything you need to know about the  sale—and make sure to keep an eye on this page, as we'll continue to update it with the best deals as soon as we learn about them.

What is Amazon Prime Day?

First launched back in 2015, Prime Day has become one of the biggest sales of the year, with major markdowns on everything from electronics to fitness gear to smart home gadgets (last year, the Echo was one of the most popular items sold).

The exact details of Prime Day change from year to year. This year, the sale is going to be on July 16. But you don't have to wait until then to save: Pre-sales will be announced a few days before the actual event (more on that below).

What should I know about Amazon Prime Day?

If you spot a great deal, you should definitely click "Add to cart" ASAP. Many Prime Day sales have a short time limit, and others, called "lightening deals," end when the item is out of stock. Some sales are also announced throughout the day, so keep checking back to make sure you don't miss anything.

Last year, we saw some great savings on workout and sporting gear (including must-have brands like Reebok, Adidas, and Fitbit), home and electronics (tons of Amazon devices were marked down), kitchen essentials from brands like Keurig and Calphalon, and even some rare luxury beauty discounts.

How can I find the best Amazon Prime Day deals?

The first thing you need to do is make sure you're an Amazon Prime member; all Prime Day sales are exclusive to members. You can sign up for a 30-day free trial during your first month of Prime, and it's then $119 a year. If you're not already a member, trust us, it's worth every penny: you get access to tons of freebies (music, videos, e-books, and audio streaming services), as well as free 2-day shipping on qualifying items.

Best Prime Day deals on Amazon smart home devices

• Echo Look: $100 (marked down from $200)

• Echo Show: $130 (marked down from $230)

• Echo Dot: $30 (marked down from $50)

• Echo Dot Kids Edition: $60 (marked down from $80)

• Echo Spot: $99 (marked down from $130)

• Echo Buttons: $15 (save when you buy 2)

Best Prime Day deals on electronics

• Bose SoundLinkMicro Bluetooth speaker in blue, orange, and black: $69 (marked down from $100)

• Toshiba 50-inch 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV with HDR – Fire TV Edition: $290 (marked down from $400)

Best Prime Day deals on furniture and bedding

• Up to 40% off bestselling mattresses, furniture and rugs

• Up to 30% off furniture and decor

• AmazonBasics 7-Piece Bed-In-A-Bag: $28 for full/queen (20% off)

Best Prime Day deals on vacuums

• iRobot Roomba671 Robot Vacuum with Wi-Fi Connectivity: $250 (marked down from $350)

• Dyson V8 Absolute Cordless Stick Vacuum Cleaner: $379 (24% off)

Best Prime Day kitchen and grilling deals

• Instant Pot 6-Quart: $65 (35% off)

• KitchenAid Professional 6-Qt…

This Woman Felt 'Electric Shocks' in Her Legs. It Turned Out She Had a Parasite in Her Spine

– www.health.com

A 35-year-old French woman went to the emergency room after feeling "electric shocks" in her legs. For months, she had been experiencing worsening symptoms, which made it difficult to ride her horse and had caused repeated falls.

But at the hospital, she got an answer she probably wasn't expecting. Doctors at the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon in Dijon, France discovered a parasite had made its way to her 9th vertebra.

According to the case report published in this week's New England Journal of Medicine, lab tests revealed the unnamed woman had a high white blood cell count, which can be a sign of an infection. An MRI tipped doctors off to a lesion on her spine, which then had to be removed surgically. After testing the lesion, doctors confirmed it was a cyst formed by the larva of a kind of tapeworm called Echinococcus granulosus, a condition known as cystic echinococcosis.

Echinococcus granulosus is most commonly found in dogs, who often get it from other animals, particularly sheep and cattle, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). For this parasite to infect a human, a person might touch an infected dog or its droppings, then touch their face, accidentally ingesting the tapeworm in the process. Or they might eat food or drink water contaminated by an infected dog's poop. 

RELATED: A Moving Bump on This Woman's Face Turned Out to Be a Live Worm

Once swallowed, Echinococcus granulosus can grow into cyst-like lesions, called cystic echinococcosis or CE, according to the CDC. "Infection can cause cystic lesions in the liver and lungs and also in the central nervous system and bones," the case report authors wrote. The slow-growing cysts may not result in any symptoms, possibly for years.

The woman in the case report had contact with cattle and had a pet cat, both possible sources of her Echinococcus granulosus infection. In addition to her surgery to remove the cyst, she was also treated with an antiparasitic medication. And there's a happy ending: "At follow-up 9 months after presentation, the patient had no residual symptoms or sign of recurrence," the authors wrote.

To get our top stories delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Healthy Living newsletter

Of course, it's better to never have a parasite to begin with. If you live in an area with sheep or cattle, always wash your hands thoroughly after touching dogs and before eating, the CDC recommends. It's probably also a smart idea not to eat any greens or berries gathered from fields where dogs might be doing their business.

Fresh Box

3 Sports Bras for Big Boobs That Actually Work + MORE

Is going out for a run, getting into a downward dog, or doing burpees, jumping jacks, and box jumps a pain in the chest? That uncomfortable bouncing is a sign that your sports bra is not supportive enough—something that can not only hold you back during your workout, but can also be bad for yo.... More »

Does Dry Brushing Really Reduce Cellulite and Help You Look Younger? + MORE

[brightcove:5474328532001 default] There's always a new skin trend popping up rumored to vanish wrinkles, smooth dimples and zap cellulite. But most turn out to be temporary tricks and, more often than not, too good to be true. Cue dry brushing—is it really worth the hype? Dry brush.... More »

10 Top Trending Workouts of 2019, According to Google + MORE

The best thing about Google—aside from, you know, having the entire world at your fingertips—is that you can find ideas for literally any of kind workout at the stroke of a keyboard. Want to find the perfect at-home ab workout? Google it. Need to know the difference between squats and de.... More »

ThirdLove Responds to That Inflammatory Victoria's Secret Interview with an Open Letter to the Brand + MORE

ICYMI, Victoria's Secret is in hot water this month following commentary from the brand's chief marketing officer Ed Razek, the creator of the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, in his now-infamous interview with Vogue. Not only did Razek objectify women and offend plus-size and t.... More »

Meghan Markle’s Go-To Lash Serum Is On Sale Right Now + MORE

Meghan Markle may officially be a Royal now, but she still keeps her beauty routine relatively low-key. She loves throwing her hair up in messy buns, isn't above doing her own makeup, and sticks to using eyelash serum for longer lashes instead of going the high-maintenance extensions route..... More »

Continue Reading

Amazon Just Leaked an Early Prime Day Deal—and It’s Perfect for Fitness Junkieshealth.com
What's Amazon Prime Day? Everything You Need to Know About the Biggest Sale of the Yearhealth.com
This Woman Felt 'Electric Shocks' in Her Legs. It Turned Out She Had a Parasite in Her Spinewww.health.com

Lili Reinhart Opened Up About Her Struggle With Body Dysmorphia After Fans Criticized Her Recent 'Harper's Bazaar' Comments + MORE

Beauty and health are wonderful areas to dedicate one’s
life. We have seen the simple addition of hair with Invisablend’s hair
extensions and treatments cause an immediate increase in our client’s confidence
and life enjoyment. We encourage you to do the little things that make you feel
good and give you confidence. It will have a dynamic effect on your quality of
life.

Lili Reinhart Opened Up About Her Struggle With Body Dysmorphia After Fans Criticized Her Recent 'Harper's Bazaar' Comments

– www.health.com

Body dysmorphia affects people of every shape, age, and size, which is why we’re so glad Riverdale actress Lili Reinhart is speaking out about her experiences with the disorder and taking internet trolls to task.

In a recent old Hollywood-inspired video shoot for Harpar’s Bazaar, Reinhart was asked about her retro fashion icons. “I’ve always really loved old Hollywood glamour and fashion,” Reinhart says over images of her in various retro outfits. “There’s so many iconic women — Veronica Lake, Lauren Bacall, Marilyn, Audrey, Grace Kelly. Marilyn is an inspiration to me in the sense that she was a curvy girl and she had boobs and she didn’t have a 24-inch waist, and to me that’s really inspiring. It makes me feel like my body can be accepted.”

However, some fans took issue with Reinhart’s admission that she struggles with body acceptance.

"I love her so much but she's acting like she's suffering ?? She's literally so pretty and has an amazing body," one fan wrote. Another commented, "I can't relate to this. What's unacceptable about her body? Who's out there telling her, her bod is too much? I'm not saying she doesn't have those moments but why would she take them seriously looking like that?!"

Reinhart took the opportunity to try to educate her followers on the nature of mental health and body image issues in a multiple-part Twitter post on July 3rd:

She added a few more thoughts today, July 4th.

"Mental illness gets worse when people say that you don’t have a right to feel the way you do."

We’re so proud of Lili Reinhart for speaking out about this issue. Body dysmorphia is a mental health problem, and — just like with all mental illnesses — it can affect anyone and doesn’t have a face.

Let’s use this as a reminder to choose empathy over judgement whenever possible — especially when it comes to the mental health experiences of others.

The 10 Most Stressful Jobs—Did Yours Make the List?

– www.health.com

Think your job is stressful? Try being an urologist.

Every job carries a certain level of stress—but the most stressful jobs undeniably take a greater toll on workers than low-stress jobs do. Some people are attracted to these jobs for the challenges and rewards they offer, while others would like to avoid stressful careers. But how do you know if a job is going to be stressful or not?

The Occupational Information Network (O*NET), a U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration–sponsored initiative, has the answers. Determining levels of stress is difficult, as everyone carries stress differently and some are better equipped to handle it than others, but the O*NET Resource Center has developed a list of the most stressful jobs based on the amount of stress tolerance people in that field must possess.

These jobs require “accepting criticism and dealing calmly and effectively with high-stress situations” and, unsurprisingly, many of the jobs at the top of the list involve facing life-and-death situations. The 10 most stressful jobs are:

1. Urologist

2. Anesthesiologist Assistants

3. Nurse Anesthetists

4. Telephone Operators

5. Acute Care Nurses

6. Dancers

7. Obstetricians and Gynecologists

8. Police, Fire, and Ambulance Dispatchers

9. Surgeons

10. Transit and Railroad Police

Six of the top 10 most stressful jobs are in the healthcare field, but telephone operators and emergency dispatchers also made the list, proving even desk jobs can be taxing.

Notably, all the jobs O*NET ranked are at least a little stressful: Even the least-stressful profession, Models, had a stress level of 24 (out of 100).

See the full ranking from O*NET here.

I Went Indoor Skydiving to Test Out These Sneakers–but They're Actually the Perfect Lightweight Summer Shoe

– health.com

Last week, I learned how to fly.

Along with a group of other lucky writers and editors, I was treated to an outing at iFly Westchester, an indoor skydiving facility not far from New York City. We were there to celebrate the New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz–and get quite the adrenaline rush.

Far too afraid of the potential for things to go dangerously, dangerously wrong, I'd never be able to jump out of an actual, moving plane–but indoor skydiving felt like almost all the thrill without the obvious risk. The cushion of air that supports indoor flyers functions not unlike that classic science experiment you probably remember from elementary school: switch on a hair dryer, watch ping pong balls float miraculously. Except in this case, there's a giant "hair dryer" in a skydiving tunnel and even the tallest of guys became as light as ping pong balls. With the guidance of ultra-compassionate instructors, several groups of disbelieving journalists took turns floating low to the ground and spinning high.

Speaking of floating: The Fresh Foam Cruz sneakers we were gifted felt nearly as freeing. The plush sole is supportive yet cushiony, making it a truly multipurpose shoe that can work for your workouts (whether they're extreme or of a more moderate intensity) and tackling errands. The athleisure vibe means these kicks go with just about anything, and the bootie construction makes them super-easy to slip on and off. They're divinely lightweight, meaning you'll definitely want to pack them for a weekend away–because who really has room for more than one pair of sneakers?!

New Balance Fresh Foam Cruz Knit in Rain Cloud with White Munsell, $85, newbalance.com

Even the iFly instructors donned a pair–a fact I only realized halfway through the event. I was too spellbound watching the experienced instructors pull off all kinds of synchronized stunts and daring tricks. 

Nico sure made it look easy. Considering I couldn't even successfully turn ever so slightly to my right, I think it's safe to say I'm going to need a lot more indoor skydiving practice. My new sneaks, on the other hand? Perfect on the first try.

Fresh Box

Gretchen Rubin’s Daily Tricks for Staying Happy + MORE

What inspired you to write about the power of decluttering? Your space reflects you. It projects your identity to the world. If you look around and everything you own is useful or beloved, you may feel more integrated with yourself. Any advice for getting started? Adopt the one-minute r.... More »

Which Exercise Burns the Most Calories? Here's What Science Says + MORE

Your time is precious — and limited. So when it comes to working out, it’s not uncommon to wonder: what exercise burns the most calories? Exercise scientists have rigorously studied the amount of energy people expend during different types of exercise, and they’ve determined w.... More »

This 9-Week Squat Challenge Gave Me a Butt I'm Finally Proud Of + MORE

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This Is the Legging Trend You'll Be Seeing Everywhere in 2019 + MORE

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Prepping for a Destination Race? Here’s What You Need to Know

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Lili Reinhart Opened Up About Her Struggle With Body Dysmorphia After Fans Criticized Her Recent 'Harper's Bazaar' Commentswww.health.com
The 10 Most Stressful Jobs—Did Yours Make the List?www.health.com
I Went Indoor Skydiving to Test Out These Sneakers–but They're Actually the Perfect Lightweight Summer Shoehealth.com

What's Amazon Prime Day? Everything You Need to Know About the Biggest Sale of the Year + MORE

Hair extensions and hair treatments are just one way that Invisiblend Hair Studio helps to increase our client’s quality of life. A hair technician or hair salon specialist is more than just a stylist, they are a friend. A person to vent your week to, express your joy and life achievements, there is more than just beauty when it comes to our hair stylist.We hope the reviews and blogs and posts help your day go smother

This Woman's Bold Message About Thigh Gap Wins Summer

– www.health.com

As a teen, Mary Jelkovsky was obsessed with having “thigh gap”—upper thighs so thin, they didn't touch and instead had space between them.

These days, the 20-year-old wellness influencer knows that thigh gap is unrealistic. But after she recently saw a thigh gap workout on social media, she was so outraged, she came up with her own cheeky way of showing others that having thigh gap is unhealthy, and prizing it promotes unrealistic body standards.

On Tuesday, she posted what she called her "two-step method" to getting thigh gap. Posing in a white tee and underwear, she wrote: “1. Separate thighs” and “2. Screw it. Love yoself.” She provided more context in the caption.

When she was a personal trainer, “women from all walks of life would constantly use phrases like ‘problem area’ and ‘my biggest insecurity’ to describe their legs or midsection (or both),” she wrote. “It was very sad to hear that a mother of 4 was too ashamed of her body to have sex with her husband or that a college girl didn’t want to go to a pool party until she lost 10 pounds.”

RELATED: If Thigh Gap and Hip Dip Weren't Enough, Now Women Are Supposed to Worry About Having 'Armpit Vaginas'

Jelkovsky tells Health she was motivated to share message of self-acceptance because she's frustrated that so many women still try to achieve thigh gap. This “problem area” continues to cause problems for women today.

“I remembered being in high school when the thigh gap trend was very alive and I spent hours on the internet looking at how to do it,” she says. “The other day I was on Pinterest and I saw an ‘inner thigh workout for a thigh gap’ and I was so shocked that this was still a thing! I don’t want my little sister to grow up in a world where air between your legs has any significance.”

Only 23% of Americans Get Enough Exercise, a New Report Says

– health.com

Less than a quarter of Americans are meeting all national physical activity guidelines, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS).

Federal physical activity guidelines recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week, in addition to muscle-strengthening activities at least twice a week. But according to the new NCHS report, which drew on five years of data from the National Health Interview Survey, only about 23% of adults ages 18 to 64 are hitting both of those marks. Another 32% met one but not both, and almost 45% did not hit either benchmark.

Those numbers fluctuated somewhat depending on gender, occupation and home state. More men (roughly 27%) than women (almost 19%) met both guidelines, and both genders saw slightly higher percentages among working adults (almost 29% and 21%, respectively).

The authors also added that people working in managerial or “professional” positions were more likely than individuals in production roles, such as assembly and manufacturing, to meet the standards. However, the report looked only at leisure-time physical activity, so adults who log exercise through active jobs or commutes were not included in the findings.

Some states saw adherence rates well above the national average, while others were well below. Colorado led the pack, with 32.5% of adults meeting both federal exercise guidelines. In Mississippi, just 13.5% of adults reported meeting both exercise guidelines.

With some exceptions, states on the West Coast and in the Northeast tended to have higher percentages of residents meeting the guidelines than states in the South. Residents of states in the Southeast had particularly low rates. High levels of unemployment and disability or poor health in a state were correlated with lower rates of meeting exercise guidelines, the researchers found.

In all, the results suggest that most Americans should try to squeeze more exercise into their time off, given its well-established connections to everything from chronic disease prevention to mental and cognitive health benefits.

What's Amazon Prime Day? Everything You Need to Know About the Biggest Sale of the Year

– health.com

The fourth annual Amazon Prime Day is almost here, and to say we're getting excited would be a huge understatement. Here's everything you need to know about the upcoming sale—and make sure to keep an eye on this page, as we'll continue to update it with the best deals as soon as we learn about them.

What is Amazon Prime Day?

First launched back in 2015, Prime Day has become one of the biggest sales of the year, with major markdowns on everything from electronics to fitness gear to smart home gadgets (last year, the Echo was one of the most popular items sold).

The exact details of Prime Day change from year to year, but the sale typically launches sometime in mid July and lasts for about 24-30 hours. Although we don't know the exact date yet, it was July 15 in 2015, July 12 in 2016, and July 10 in 2017—so we're guessing this year's Prime Day will occur sometime around those days. Also cool: There are usually pre-sales announced a few days before the actual event.

What should I know about Amazon Prime Day?

If you spot a great deal, you should definitely click "Add to cart" ASAP. Many Prime Day sales have a short time limit, and others, called "lightening deals," end when the item is out of stock. Some sales are also announced throughout the day, so keep checking back to make sure you don't miss anything.

Last year, we saw some great savings on workout and sporting gear (including must-have brands like Reebok, Adidas, and Fitbit), home and electronics (tons of Amazon devices were marked down), kitchen essentials from brands like Keurig and Calphalon, and even some rare luxury beauty discounts.

How can I find the best Amazon Prime Day deals?

The first thing you need to do is make sure you're an Amazon Prime member; all Prime Day sales are exclusive to members. You can sign up for a 30-day free trial during your first month of Prime, and it's then $119 a year. If you're not already a member, trust us, it's worth every penny: you get access to tons of freebies (music, videos, e-books, and audio streaming services), as well as free 2-day shipping on qualifying items.

 

Keep an eye on this page, and we'll continue to update it as new deals come in. 

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This Mascara Is So Good, A Tube Is Sold Every 7.4 Seconds + MORE

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Lili Reinhart Opened Up About Her Struggle With Body Dysmorphia After Fans Criticized Her Recent 'Harper's Bazaar' Comments + MORE

Body dysmorphia affects people of every shape, age, and size, which is why we’re so glad Riverdale actress Lili Reinhart is speaking out about her experiences with the disorder and taking internet trolls to task. In a recent old Hollywood-inspired video shoot for Harpar’s Bazaar, .... More »

The On Cloudflow Running Shoes Are so Lightweight, You’ll Think You’re Barefoot + MORE

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This Woman's Bold Message About Thigh Gap Wins Summerwww.health.com
Only 23% of Americans Get Enough Exercise, a New Report Sayshealth.com
What's Amazon Prime Day? Everything You Need to Know About the Biggest Sale of the Yearhealth.com