Dr. Travis Stork from the TV show "The Doctors" has a book out called "The Lean Belly Prescription", and it includes tips on how to lose weight in just ten seconds. Obviously, you won't actually get THINNER in ten seconds. They're just weight-loss STRATEGIES that take ten seconds or less. Here are the top four.
#1.) Ruin Your Appetite. Drinking two glasses of water before a meal makes you feel full, and it can reduce the number of calories you eat by up to 20%. You don't have to chug, but unless you're a horse, you probably won't drink two glasses in ten seconds. Actually, you can accomplish the same thing if you have just one glass of water, then start with a cup of broth-based soup, like miso, minestrone, or chicken noodle.
#2.) Sign Up for a 5K Race. According to a study at the University of Michigan, you're more likely to maintain an exercise program if you find more reasons to work out than just weight loss.
#3.) Eat Chile Peppers. Capsaicin is the stuff in chilies that makes them hot. And according to a recent study, it also increases your metabolism. If you eat just one tablespoon of chopped red or green chilies, it can boost your metabolism by up to 23%.
#4.) Eliminate Added Sugar. According to a survey done by the USDA, the average American eats about 20 teaspoons of added sugar a day, which translates to about 320 empty calories. Most of that sugar comes in the form of soda, baked goods, breakfast cereal, candy, and fruit drinks.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Envious of Brit-Brit's Body? Here's the secret:
BRITNEY SPEARS is in pretty good shape these days --wanna know her secrets? Cosmopolitan magazine spoke with celebrity trainer JOE DOWDELL, who dished out three moves to get Britney's body!
1. The Glute Bridge. It might not be the most ladylike movement, but lay on your back with knees bent and feet on the floor. Lift your hips, hold for five seconds and squeeze the booty before coming back down. Do two sets of ten for tight hind quarters.
2. Push-Ups. Face the floor, hands at shoulder level and feet together. Lift your body from a few inches off the floor until arms are straight --you should see results in your triceps and core.
3. The Split Squat. Stand up with one foot in front of your body with knee slightly bent, put the other behind you with toes on the ground. Lower down with your weight on the front heel and stop when you're an inch above the floor. Do two sets of ten and switch legs.
1. The Glute Bridge. It might not be the most ladylike movement, but lay on your back with knees bent and feet on the floor. Lift your hips, hold for five seconds and squeeze the booty before coming back down. Do two sets of ten for tight hind quarters.
2. Push-Ups. Face the floor, hands at shoulder level and feet together. Lift your body from a few inches off the floor until arms are straight --you should see results in your triceps and core.
3. The Split Squat. Stand up with one foot in front of your body with knee slightly bent, put the other behind you with toes on the ground. Lower down with your weight on the front heel and stop when you're an inch above the floor. Do two sets of ten and switch legs.
Ten MORE Things That Suddenly Cost Way More:
There were some new numbers last Friday about the Consumer Price Index . . . that's a measurement of the overall price of household goods. According to the new stats, it's gone up 2.7% in the last year. And the price of gas . . . which has gone up 28% in the last year . . . is just the tip of the iceberg. Here are ten other things that either ALREADY cost more, or are ABOUT to cost more.
#1.) Plane Tickets. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, domestic fares went up 22% between August and February, mostly because of gas prices.
#2.) Insurance. State Farm just announced an average rate hike of 18.8% for homeowners in Florida, so we can assume they'll do the same thing everywhere else soon. And Allstate has been raising rates for auto insurance too.
#3.) Chocolate. Late last month, Hersey's raised its wholesale prices by almost 10%. The prices in most stores haven't gone up yet, but they will in May or June.
#4.) Coffee. The price of coffee jumped 27% between December and March, and companies like Starbucks, Folgers, and Dunkin' Donuts have all started charging more.
#5.) Fast Food. McDonald's is raising prices this year because the cost of ingredients is going up. And Wendy's says they expect to pay 15% more for beef in 2011. So expect the price of a burger to go up at basically EVERY restaurant.
#6.) Produce. Even when you take the growing season into account, the price of fruit and vegetables has gone up an astounding 23% in the last three months. Bananas are up 10%, and potatoes are up 39%.
#7.) Furniture. Companies like Ethan Allen and La-Z-Boy are charging up to 7% more because the prices of cotton, yarn, leather, and steel have gone up.
#8.) Juice. Last month, Tropicana announced they'll be charging 4 to 8% more for some types of juice, because cold weather damaged citrus crops in Florida. And Minute Maid is doing the exact same thing.
#9.) Soft Drinks. The price of carbonated drinks went up by 14% between December and March, mainly because of higher costs for ingredients, packaging, and transportation.
#10.) Tires. Between September and March, U.S. tire prices climbed 6%, and last month Cooper Tires raised their prices for the second time this year. When they announced the price hike, the company said the price for rubber had gone up 75% in just a few months.
#1.) Plane Tickets. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, domestic fares went up 22% between August and February, mostly because of gas prices.
#2.) Insurance. State Farm just announced an average rate hike of 18.8% for homeowners in Florida, so we can assume they'll do the same thing everywhere else soon. And Allstate has been raising rates for auto insurance too.
#3.) Chocolate. Late last month, Hersey's raised its wholesale prices by almost 10%. The prices in most stores haven't gone up yet, but they will in May or June.
#4.) Coffee. The price of coffee jumped 27% between December and March, and companies like Starbucks, Folgers, and Dunkin' Donuts have all started charging more.
#5.) Fast Food. McDonald's is raising prices this year because the cost of ingredients is going up. And Wendy's says they expect to pay 15% more for beef in 2011. So expect the price of a burger to go up at basically EVERY restaurant.
#6.) Produce. Even when you take the growing season into account, the price of fruit and vegetables has gone up an astounding 23% in the last three months. Bananas are up 10%, and potatoes are up 39%.
#7.) Furniture. Companies like Ethan Allen and La-Z-Boy are charging up to 7% more because the prices of cotton, yarn, leather, and steel have gone up.
#8.) Juice. Last month, Tropicana announced they'll be charging 4 to 8% more for some types of juice, because cold weather damaged citrus crops in Florida. And Minute Maid is doing the exact same thing.
#9.) Soft Drinks. The price of carbonated drinks went up by 14% between December and March, mainly because of higher costs for ingredients, packaging, and transportation.
#10.) Tires. Between September and March, U.S. tire prices climbed 6%, and last month Cooper Tires raised their prices for the second time this year. When they announced the price hike, the company said the price for rubber had gone up 75% in just a few months.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
The Three Main Ways You Might Be Sabotaging Your Children's Health
#1.) Letting Them Watch Too Much TV. Almost half of the parents surveyed said they let their kids watch more than two hours of TV a day, and 74% of parents said they spent family time doing sedentary things . . . like watching more TV. But it's hard to bond in front of the TV, since everyone has to stay quiet the whole time. So going for a walk or a family bike ride is better anyway.
#2.) Letting Them Stay Inside All Day. This sort of goes hand-in-hand with watching too much TV, but 84% of the parents who were surveyed said their children don't play outside on a daily basis. And 74% said their kids don't meet the minimum recommendation of one hour of aerobic activity a day. But making sure your kids are active is important in more ways than one: A 2009 study of 11,000 eight and nine-year-olds found that kids behaved better in school if they got just 15 minutes of recess per day.
#3.) Letting Them Eat Too Much Junk Food. This is the big one: According to recent data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 40% of the calories consumed by 2-to-18-year-olds are "empty" calories from fat and sugar. And only 16% of parents in the YMCA poll said they make sure their kids get at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, which is the recommended MINIMUM. Meanwhile, 10% of ALL their calories come from soda and fruit drinks. So in other words, you should teach your kids to drink more water, and cut back on things like chips and candy. It won't just affect their weight, it'll affect their brains too. A study done last year found that three-year-olds who had diets that were high in fat, sugar, and calories had lower IQs by age eight compared to kids who had healthy diets.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Going Up...
As you know, prices are climbing for everything from coffee and chocolate to tires and toilet paper. Here are a few things going up:
Airlines have been raising ticket prices steadily to pass on the expense of higher fuel costs. Domestic round-trip fares were boosted a half dozen times this year by $4 to $10 each.
Hershey’s Chocolate raised its wholesale prices nearly 10% in late March. We may not feel the pinch until after Easter.
Coffee prices jumped 27% between December and March as companies passed along their record cost of unroasted beans.
McDonald’s is dealing with higher ingredient costs and expects to raise U.S. prices this year. The cost of fruits and vegetables has risen 23% in three months, including bananas up 10% and potatoes up 39%.
Furniture manufacturers are increasing prices up to 7% due to higher costs of cotton, yarn, leather and steel.
Diapers, soap, toilet paper, toothpaste, trash bags and many other everyday items all have been targeted for price hikes as companies respond to rising ingredient costs.
State Farm and Allstate, the nation’s two biggest home and auto insurers, are pursuing further price hikes.
Airlines have been raising ticket prices steadily to pass on the expense of higher fuel costs. Domestic round-trip fares were boosted a half dozen times this year by $4 to $10 each.
Hershey’s Chocolate raised its wholesale prices nearly 10% in late March. We may not feel the pinch until after Easter.
Coffee prices jumped 27% between December and March as companies passed along their record cost of unroasted beans.
McDonald’s is dealing with higher ingredient costs and expects to raise U.S. prices this year. The cost of fruits and vegetables has risen 23% in three months, including bananas up 10% and potatoes up 39%.
Furniture manufacturers are increasing prices up to 7% due to higher costs of cotton, yarn, leather and steel.
Diapers, soap, toilet paper, toothpaste, trash bags and many other everyday items all have been targeted for price hikes as companies respond to rising ingredient costs.
State Farm and Allstate, the nation’s two biggest home and auto insurers, are pursuing further price hikes.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Four Weird Tricks That Make You Eat Less:
If you wana lose weight but have absolutely no will power, here are four tricks that will make you eat less:
#1.) Turn on Relaxing Music. Soft music naturally relaxes you and lowers your stress level, which makes you chew slower than if you were listening to, say, death metal. And when you eat slower, you start feeling full faster.
#2.) Turn on More Lights. Dim lighting might create a more romantic atmosphere, but another reason restaurants keep the lights down is because it lowers your inhibitions and makes you eat more.
#3.) Light a Vanilla-Scented Candle. The scent of vanilla makes you less likely to want dessert. In fact, one group of volunteers lost an average of four-and-a-half pounds each by wearing vanilla-scented patches.
#4.) Paint Your Dining Room Blue. This is weird, but researchers have found that people eat 33% less if they're sitting in a blue room. It's because when light bounces off of the walls, it creates a blue tint, which makes the food look less appetizing. The colors red, orange, and yellow have the opposite effect, which is why so many fast-food places use those colors inside.
#1.) Turn on Relaxing Music. Soft music naturally relaxes you and lowers your stress level, which makes you chew slower than if you were listening to, say, death metal. And when you eat slower, you start feeling full faster.
#2.) Turn on More Lights. Dim lighting might create a more romantic atmosphere, but another reason restaurants keep the lights down is because it lowers your inhibitions and makes you eat more.
#3.) Light a Vanilla-Scented Candle. The scent of vanilla makes you less likely to want dessert. In fact, one group of volunteers lost an average of four-and-a-half pounds each by wearing vanilla-scented patches.
#4.) Paint Your Dining Room Blue. This is weird, but researchers have found that people eat 33% less if they're sitting in a blue room. It's because when light bounces off of the walls, it creates a blue tint, which makes the food look less appetizing. The colors red, orange, and yellow have the opposite effect, which is why so many fast-food places use those colors inside.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Three Very Basic Things You Won't Believe You're Doing Wrong:
Here's something you might not know: The straight-backed chair has been around for thousands of years, but it's one of the reasons 80% of Americans have back problems. Basically, we're just not meant to sit at a 90-degree angle, and our bodies are more comfortable either kneeling, reclining, or sitting on a stool or a bench. So you've been sitting wrong your whole life and never knew it. Here's a list of three more basic things you won't believe you're doing wrong.
#1.) Going to the Bathroom. Humans aren't really designed to go to the bathroom sitting down. We're designed to squat. But modern toilets are getting taller and taller because people think they're more comfortable. It's actually something doctors have known for a long time: One medical textbook from 1964 said, quote, "the ideal posture for defecation is the squatting position, with the thighs fixed upon the abdomen." Using modern toilets is actually one of the reasons people get hemorrhoids, but I won't explain why, because it's pretty gross. If you want to achieve the squatting effect on a standard toilet, all you need are two strategically placed footstools.
#2.) Bathing. The gist of it is, we shower too much now, and it washes away the outermost layer of skin, which is called "the horny layer." No, I'm not joking. The horny layer is basically just dead skin, and it actually protects your living skin from all sorts of diseases. There's no real consensus on how many times you should shower per week, but it's less than seven. And instead of covering yourself in lather, you're supposed to only use a tiny bit of soap for your entire body.
#3.) Breathing. Here's a test: Take a deep breath right now . . . If you're like most people, you raised your shoulders and your chest puffed out a little. But the PROPER way to breathe is by using your diaphragm, which is under your lungs, closer to your stomach. When you breathe with your chest, you only use the top part of your lungs, and you get less oxygen, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, anxiety, and even panic attacks. To practice breathing the RIGHT way, try to "inflate" your stomach when you breathe in, and keep your chest somewhat still. If you practice it enough, your diaphragm will get stronger, and eventually you'll start doing it in your sleep.
#1.) Going to the Bathroom. Humans aren't really designed to go to the bathroom sitting down. We're designed to squat. But modern toilets are getting taller and taller because people think they're more comfortable. It's actually something doctors have known for a long time: One medical textbook from 1964 said, quote, "the ideal posture for defecation is the squatting position, with the thighs fixed upon the abdomen." Using modern toilets is actually one of the reasons people get hemorrhoids, but I won't explain why, because it's pretty gross. If you want to achieve the squatting effect on a standard toilet, all you need are two strategically placed footstools.
#2.) Bathing. The gist of it is, we shower too much now, and it washes away the outermost layer of skin, which is called "the horny layer." No, I'm not joking. The horny layer is basically just dead skin, and it actually protects your living skin from all sorts of diseases. There's no real consensus on how many times you should shower per week, but it's less than seven. And instead of covering yourself in lather, you're supposed to only use a tiny bit of soap for your entire body.
#3.) Breathing. Here's a test: Take a deep breath right now . . . If you're like most people, you raised your shoulders and your chest puffed out a little. But the PROPER way to breathe is by using your diaphragm, which is under your lungs, closer to your stomach. When you breathe with your chest, you only use the top part of your lungs, and you get less oxygen, which can lead to headaches, fatigue, anxiety, and even panic attacks. To practice breathing the RIGHT way, try to "inflate" your stomach when you breathe in, and keep your chest somewhat still. If you practice it enough, your diaphragm will get stronger, and eventually you'll start doing it in your sleep.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Sneaky Ways to Save Cash
• Mascara: It can last for 5 months if you swirl the brush as you pull it out instead of pumping it up & down. Dipping the tube in boiling water for about 15 seconds will make it gooey again.
• Nail Polish: Since heat and sunlight destroy it by separating the ingredients, keep your bottles in the fridge and you will more than double their lifespan.
• Perfume: Direct light makes perfume lose its scent and start to smell funky, but keeping the bottles in the original box or in a medicine cabinet can get you 3 extra years out of it.
• Razors: Keep your blade sharper for longer by dipping it in rubbing alcohol after each use. Don’t leave your razor where it will get sprayed with water and is more likely to rust.
• Running Shoes: You can quadruple their lifespan by keeping them at room temperature when they’re off your feet. Cold air breaks down the soles and messes up the air pockets.
• Nail Polish: Since heat and sunlight destroy it by separating the ingredients, keep your bottles in the fridge and you will more than double their lifespan.
• Perfume: Direct light makes perfume lose its scent and start to smell funky, but keeping the bottles in the original box or in a medicine cabinet can get you 3 extra years out of it.
• Razors: Keep your blade sharper for longer by dipping it in rubbing alcohol after each use. Don’t leave your razor where it will get sprayed with water and is more likely to rust.
• Running Shoes: You can quadruple their lifespan by keeping them at room temperature when they’re off your feet. Cold air breaks down the soles and messes up the air pockets.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Five Stupid Things People Have Tried to Deduct on Their Taxes:
You don't have to do your taxes until Monday, April 18th this year, because of a little-known holiday celebrated in Washington D.C. called Emancipation Day. So if you want to wait until the last minute and do your taxes next weekend, you can. But if you're like a lot of people and you're planning to do them THIS week, make sure you don't do what any of THESE people did . . .Here's a list from CNNMoney.com of five stupid things people have tried to deduct on their taxes.
#1.) Hookers. A lawyer in New York tried to deduct the $66,000 he spent on prostitutes as a medical expense, along with the $5,000 he spent on pornography and sex therapy books. But obviously, if you pay for something that's ILLEGAL, you can't deduct it. And he couldn't deduct the money he spent on the books either, because a court ruled they were for his, quote, "general welfare", and not prescribed by a doctor.
#2.) Candy and Flowers for Secretaries. A public defender in Santa Clara, California tried to deduct it on his taxes, but the IRS decided it was a personal expense that wasn't necessary for his business.
#3.) Buffalo Meat. A professional bodybuilder in Wisconsin tried to deduct it, saying it has more protein than other meats. But a court decided that since plenty of normal people eat buffalo meat too, it wasn't deductable. But the guy DID manage to deduct tanning products and "posing oil", which is the stuff bodybuilders rub all over themselves so they look shiny.
#4.) An Aquarium. A guy in Rock Hill, South Carolina tried to deduct an eleven hundred dollar, 75-gallon saltwater aquarium, which would have been fine if he was in the exotic fish business. The problem was, he was a stockbroker.
#5.) Underwear. One of the guys in ROD STEWART'S band once tried to deduct leather pants, hats, a vest, and silk boxers because he wore them on stage. The IRS eventually let him deduct some of the flashier items, but not the boxers since no one could see them.
#1.) Hookers. A lawyer in New York tried to deduct the $66,000 he spent on prostitutes as a medical expense, along with the $5,000 he spent on pornography and sex therapy books. But obviously, if you pay for something that's ILLEGAL, you can't deduct it. And he couldn't deduct the money he spent on the books either, because a court ruled they were for his, quote, "general welfare", and not prescribed by a doctor.
#2.) Candy and Flowers for Secretaries. A public defender in Santa Clara, California tried to deduct it on his taxes, but the IRS decided it was a personal expense that wasn't necessary for his business.
#3.) Buffalo Meat. A professional bodybuilder in Wisconsin tried to deduct it, saying it has more protein than other meats. But a court decided that since plenty of normal people eat buffalo meat too, it wasn't deductable. But the guy DID manage to deduct tanning products and "posing oil", which is the stuff bodybuilders rub all over themselves so they look shiny.
#4.) An Aquarium. A guy in Rock Hill, South Carolina tried to deduct an eleven hundred dollar, 75-gallon saltwater aquarium, which would have been fine if he was in the exotic fish business. The problem was, he was a stockbroker.
#5.) Underwear. One of the guys in ROD STEWART'S band once tried to deduct leather pants, hats, a vest, and silk boxers because he wore them on stage. The IRS eventually let him deduct some of the flashier items, but not the boxers since no one could see them.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Four Steps for How to Break Bad News:
Being the bearer of bad news is never fun, but if you do it wrong it can be even worse. So here are four steps to help you deliver bad news in the best way possible.
Step One: Drop a Warning. Tell the person they should sit down, or just say you need to talk about something serious. It probably won't make the bad news any easier to hear, but it's better than just blurting it out.
Step Two: Don't Beat Around the Bush. Once you've dropped a warning, tell them what they need to hear in plain English, using as few words as possible. If you're vague or you don't tell them right away, they'll be confused and frustrated.
Step Three: Don't Try to Soften the Blow. A lot of people end up hedging the bad news with something that's not really true because they feel guilty and want to make the person feel better. It's a natural reaction, but it can undermine the whole point of telling them bad news in the first place. Even doctors do it: According to a recent study, as many as one-in-four cancer specialists will give a patient bad news, then follow it up with something that softens the blow, whether it's accurate or not.
Step Four: Be More Than Just the Messenger. Once the person hears the news, they might need to talk. So prepare yourself to be supportive. One situation when you might NOT want to offer support is if you're breaking up with the person. In that case, don't try to be a shoulder to cry on because it'll just make them angrier.
Step One: Drop a Warning. Tell the person they should sit down, or just say you need to talk about something serious. It probably won't make the bad news any easier to hear, but it's better than just blurting it out.
Step Two: Don't Beat Around the Bush. Once you've dropped a warning, tell them what they need to hear in plain English, using as few words as possible. If you're vague or you don't tell them right away, they'll be confused and frustrated.
Step Three: Don't Try to Soften the Blow. A lot of people end up hedging the bad news with something that's not really true because they feel guilty and want to make the person feel better. It's a natural reaction, but it can undermine the whole point of telling them bad news in the first place. Even doctors do it: According to a recent study, as many as one-in-four cancer specialists will give a patient bad news, then follow it up with something that softens the blow, whether it's accurate or not.
Step Four: Be More Than Just the Messenger. Once the person hears the news, they might need to talk. So prepare yourself to be supportive. One situation when you might NOT want to offer support is if you're breaking up with the person. In that case, don't try to be a shoulder to cry on because it'll just make them angrier.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Eight Surprising Things That Are Bad for Your Teeth:
Obviously, bad dental hygiene can lead to cavities and gum disease, but here's a list from Health.com of eight surprising things that can also be bad for your teeth.
#1.) Bottled Water. About 60% of people in the U.S. have fluoride in their tap water, but most brands of bottled water don't. So if you ONLY drink bottled water, you might not be getting enough fluoride to protect your teeth from cavities.
#2.) Sports Drinks. They usually have a lot of sugar and a high level of acid, which can wear away your enamel. And the same goes for soda, coffee, and wine.
#3.) Diabetes. It lowers your body's resistance to infections and puts you at risk for developing gum disease. So if you're diabetic, brushing and flossing is even MORE important.
#4.) Cigarettes. Obviously, they can stain your teeth yellow, but a lot of smokers don't realize that the tar from tobacco sticks to their teeth and acts like glue for bacteria, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
#5.) Pregnancy. Estrogen and progesterone levels skyrocket when you're pregnant, which can cause inflammation of the gums and lead to gingivitis. And birth control pills can do the same thing because they basically just make your body THINK it's pregnant. Also, if you're pregnant and you have morning sickness, the stomach acid can cause tooth decay. So after you get sick, you're supposed to brush with baking soda or baking soda toothpaste to neutralize the acid.
#6.) Prescription Medication. A lot of prescription pills, over-the-counter pills, and even diet pills can cause dry mouth, which puts you at risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities.
#7.) Dieting. When you don't get enough vitamins and nutrients, it increases your chances of developing infections, including periodontal disease. So when you're on a diet, it's especially important to get enough B vitamins, calcium, protein, vitamin C, and folate, which is mainly found in leafy green vegetables.
#8.) Brushing Right After You Eat. If the food is acidic, brushing can cause erosion of your enamel.
#1.) Bottled Water. About 60% of people in the U.S. have fluoride in their tap water, but most brands of bottled water don't. So if you ONLY drink bottled water, you might not be getting enough fluoride to protect your teeth from cavities.
#2.) Sports Drinks. They usually have a lot of sugar and a high level of acid, which can wear away your enamel. And the same goes for soda, coffee, and wine.
#3.) Diabetes. It lowers your body's resistance to infections and puts you at risk for developing gum disease. So if you're diabetic, brushing and flossing is even MORE important.
#4.) Cigarettes. Obviously, they can stain your teeth yellow, but a lot of smokers don't realize that the tar from tobacco sticks to their teeth and acts like glue for bacteria, which can cause tooth decay and gum disease.
#5.) Pregnancy. Estrogen and progesterone levels skyrocket when you're pregnant, which can cause inflammation of the gums and lead to gingivitis. And birth control pills can do the same thing because they basically just make your body THINK it's pregnant. Also, if you're pregnant and you have morning sickness, the stomach acid can cause tooth decay. So after you get sick, you're supposed to brush with baking soda or baking soda toothpaste to neutralize the acid.
#6.) Prescription Medication. A lot of prescription pills, over-the-counter pills, and even diet pills can cause dry mouth, which puts you at risk for gum disease, tooth decay, and cavities.
#7.) Dieting. When you don't get enough vitamins and nutrients, it increases your chances of developing infections, including periodontal disease. So when you're on a diet, it's especially important to get enough B vitamins, calcium, protein, vitamin C, and folate, which is mainly found in leafy green vegetables.
#8.) Brushing Right After You Eat. If the food is acidic, brushing can cause erosion of your enamel.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Future Governor of NJ?
You probably wanted to be an astronaut or a fireman when you were a kid. But below is a vid of a 3-year-old kid sitting in his car seat and crying, because he's too small to be Governor . . . of New Jersey. When his mom asks if he thinks he's qualified, he says yes. But then she tricks him and asks if he'd raise property taxes, and since he has no idea what property taxes are . . . once again, he says yes.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Before you hit up the Farmer's Market:
It’s almost time to think about hitting up the local Farmer’s Markets, but here are a few things you need to know before you go courtesy of Bon Appetit Magazine:
• PEAS: buy frozen, not fresh. Fresh spring peas have a very short season, so unless you can get peas plucked right off the vine, they will disappoint.
• CARROTS: The orange nubs that come in plastic bags aren't babies at all. They're full-size carrots cut down with a machine. Real baby carrots are picked when small; there are also specific varieties bred to grow no bigger than three inches or so.
• LEEKS: On their own, leeks are a delicious side. As an ensemble player, they're a great alternative to onions in a stew, saute, or risotto. Leeks need vigilant cleaning, too. Rinse them under running water until all the grit is gone.
• RHUBARB: When shopping for rhubarb, try to find the field-grown stuff. Hothouse-grown rhubarb won't be as vibrant-looking as field-grown. At the market, choose red, glossy stalks that feel firm. Medium-thick stalks of rhubarb have the best chance of being tender, not fibrous.
• ASPARAGUS: Thick spears (3/4 inch or so) have better texture and flavor. To prep asparagus, skip the wasteful bend-and-snap method. Just cut off the bottom inch or so, then peel the bottom portion with a vegetable peeler.
• STRAWBERRIES: To choose the best strawberries, use your nose. Pick up the container and inhale. Buy organic if you can. Nonorganic berries are often loaded with pesticides.
• PEAS: buy frozen, not fresh. Fresh spring peas have a very short season, so unless you can get peas plucked right off the vine, they will disappoint.
• CARROTS: The orange nubs that come in plastic bags aren't babies at all. They're full-size carrots cut down with a machine. Real baby carrots are picked when small; there are also specific varieties bred to grow no bigger than three inches or so.
• LEEKS: On their own, leeks are a delicious side. As an ensemble player, they're a great alternative to onions in a stew, saute, or risotto. Leeks need vigilant cleaning, too. Rinse them under running water until all the grit is gone.
• RHUBARB: When shopping for rhubarb, try to find the field-grown stuff. Hothouse-grown rhubarb won't be as vibrant-looking as field-grown. At the market, choose red, glossy stalks that feel firm. Medium-thick stalks of rhubarb have the best chance of being tender, not fibrous.
• ASPARAGUS: Thick spears (3/4 inch or so) have better texture and flavor. To prep asparagus, skip the wasteful bend-and-snap method. Just cut off the bottom inch or so, then peel the bottom portion with a vegetable peeler.
• STRAWBERRIES: To choose the best strawberries, use your nose. Pick up the container and inhale. Buy organic if you can. Nonorganic berries are often loaded with pesticides.
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
InStyle names these favorite fashion trends for 2011:
According to InStyle, here are the pieces of clothing and accessories you MUST have for 2011 if you follow the fashion scene:
Color Block Dress
Framed Satchel 
Cat Eye Sunglasses 
Kitten Heels 
Statement Ring 
Floral Scarf 
Bangles 
Trench Coat 
Rain Boots 
Trouser Jeans 
And Oxford ShoesMonday, March 28, 2011
Super simple MUST try recipe!
* Special thanks to Stauffers of Kissel Hill Supermarket for supplying the groceries!
Bacon Wrapped Pork Loin with Grilled Veggies
Ingredients: 1 package of pre-marinated pork loin, 1 package of bacon, toothpicks
Directions: Slice the pork loin into 1 inch thick slices. Wrap bacon around the top, securing with a toothpick and then do the same around the sides. Grill on medium-high heat for 20 minutes making sure to turn often.
Grilled Veggies
Ingredients: 1 green pepper, 1 zucchini, 1 yellow squash, 1 bunch of scallions, 3 potatoes, seasoning of your choice.
Directions: Slice all veggies and dice potatoes. Pour a little bit of olive oil in the bottom of a grill proof dish or skillet if you don’t have a dish safe for the grill and add all veggies. Cook on medium high heat stirring frequently for 20 minutes or until veggies are tender.
Bacon Wrapped Asparagus
Ingredients: Bunch of fresh asparagus, bacon, olive oil, salt and pepper.
Directions: Wrap asparagus tightly in bacon. Drizzle a small amount of olive oil over bacon wrapped asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Grill on medium high heat on the top rack of your grill for about 20 minutes or until asparagus is tender turning frequently.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Five Foods and How to Make Them Last Longer in the Fridge:
According to the magazine "Prevention", the average family throws away 122 pounds of food per month and wastes $590 a year on stuff that eventually goes bad. So here are five perishables, and how you can make them last longer in the fridge.
#1.) Eggs. Most new refrigerators have a special spot on the door for eggs. But you shouldn't store them there because it makes them vulnerable to fluctuations in temperature. If you keep them in their original cardboard container and store them INSIDE the refrigerator, they'll last 3 to 4 weeks past their expiration date.
#2.) Milk. The same rule applies. Milk should be stored in the back of the fridge, where the air stays coldest. And when you're at the store, you should buy milk last so you minimize the amount of time it goes unrefrigerated.
#3.) Lunchmeat. Just make sure you store it in the meat drawer, which is specially designed to keep cold air in. As long as you don't forget to reseal the bag every time you use some, lunchmeat should last 3 to 5 days past its expiration date.
#4.) Tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes should always be in the fridge, but large varieties should stay at room temperature until they're bright red. Putting them in the refrigerator too early prevents them from ripening. And don't put ripe tomatoes near other vegetables in the fridge because they give off ethylene, which can make green veggies go bad. The same rule applies with apples, which also give off ethylene.
#5.) Hard Cheese. If you wrap it in plastic or aluminum foil and keep it refrigerated, it should last 2 to 4 months past the sell-by date. And if there's a little mold, you don't have to throw the whole thing away. Just do what your grandparents did and cut the mold off, plus an extra half-inch of cheese below it. Other things, like bread, don't work the same way. And if one piece is moldy, you have to throw out the whole loaf.
#1.) Eggs. Most new refrigerators have a special spot on the door for eggs. But you shouldn't store them there because it makes them vulnerable to fluctuations in temperature. If you keep them in their original cardboard container and store them INSIDE the refrigerator, they'll last 3 to 4 weeks past their expiration date.
#2.) Milk. The same rule applies. Milk should be stored in the back of the fridge, where the air stays coldest. And when you're at the store, you should buy milk last so you minimize the amount of time it goes unrefrigerated.
#3.) Lunchmeat. Just make sure you store it in the meat drawer, which is specially designed to keep cold air in. As long as you don't forget to reseal the bag every time you use some, lunchmeat should last 3 to 5 days past its expiration date.
#4.) Tomatoes. Cherry tomatoes should always be in the fridge, but large varieties should stay at room temperature until they're bright red. Putting them in the refrigerator too early prevents them from ripening. And don't put ripe tomatoes near other vegetables in the fridge because they give off ethylene, which can make green veggies go bad. The same rule applies with apples, which also give off ethylene.
#5.) Hard Cheese. If you wrap it in plastic or aluminum foil and keep it refrigerated, it should last 2 to 4 months past the sell-by date. And if there's a little mold, you don't have to throw the whole thing away. Just do what your grandparents did and cut the mold off, plus an extra half-inch of cheese below it. Other things, like bread, don't work the same way. And if one piece is moldy, you have to throw out the whole loaf.
Spring into Love! 30-Second Love Tips:
1. Use “Follow Up” Bonds
When your significant other tells you about something that’s going to happen that day, whether it’s a meeting, a doctor’s appointment, or taking your son or daughter to a soccer game, always make it a top priority to ask your mate, "How did it go?" By following up you are saying, you matter to me and I love you.
2. Bestow “Focused” Talk
If you and your significant other are away from each other during the day and you are busy but have access to e-mail or text messaging, take 30 seconds to send a romantic note saying, "Just thinking about you," "How’s your day going?" or "Looking forward to seeing you tonight."
3. Offer “Pitch-in” Connectors
Volunteering to help your significant other with tasks (like those in the kitchen or child care) even when you are busy, tired or overwhelmed yourself is another powerful way to say, "I love you. You are special to me and I care about you."
4. Display “Face-to-Face” Expressions
As love becomes a permanent fixture in our life; we often take it for granted. Don’t ignore your significant other. Routinely say hello and goodbye to each other and engage in one sentence face-to-face expressions of love such as “I love our life together,” “You’re a great mother/father,” or “Your were so kind to do that for me.”
5. Exhibit ”Touch and Go” Contact
When you and your significant other arrive home how much time passes before you touch each other or offer a quick hug or kiss? When you and your mate are together, whether you are watching TV, emptying the dishwasher or reading, take 30 seconds to reach out to each other. This quick touch says, "I see you. I hear you. I love you."
Spring is the time for new beginnings. It’s your time to recharge your relationship!
When your significant other tells you about something that’s going to happen that day, whether it’s a meeting, a doctor’s appointment, or taking your son or daughter to a soccer game, always make it a top priority to ask your mate, "How did it go?" By following up you are saying, you matter to me and I love you.
2. Bestow “Focused” Talk
If you and your significant other are away from each other during the day and you are busy but have access to e-mail or text messaging, take 30 seconds to send a romantic note saying, "Just thinking about you," "How’s your day going?" or "Looking forward to seeing you tonight."
3. Offer “Pitch-in” Connectors
Volunteering to help your significant other with tasks (like those in the kitchen or child care) even when you are busy, tired or overwhelmed yourself is another powerful way to say, "I love you. You are special to me and I care about you."
4. Display “Face-to-Face” Expressions
As love becomes a permanent fixture in our life; we often take it for granted. Don’t ignore your significant other. Routinely say hello and goodbye to each other and engage in one sentence face-to-face expressions of love such as “I love our life together,” “You’re a great mother/father,” or “Your were so kind to do that for me.”
5. Exhibit ”Touch and Go” Contact
When you and your significant other arrive home how much time passes before you touch each other or offer a quick hug or kiss? When you and your mate are together, whether you are watching TV, emptying the dishwasher or reading, take 30 seconds to reach out to each other. This quick touch says, "I see you. I hear you. I love you."
Spring is the time for new beginnings. It’s your time to recharge your relationship!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Fight back against bullying:
Being bullied in school is one of the most demoralizing experiences your child can face. The two main reasons children are bullied is for their appearance or social status. They don't conform to some social "norm," maybe because of how they act, look, or their sexual orientation. It can lead to victimization, low self-esteem, a kid becoming increasingly withdrawn; some even attempt suicide.
What can a parent do? The law is on your side. After the Columbine shooting in 1999, which was believed to have been the result of schoolyard bullying, 44 states expressly banned it.
Report the behavior to teachers and the school principal immediately. Make sure to document times, witnesses, and places where your child was bullied. You'll wanna report the instance (or instances, including verbal abuse) as well as send a written report (for your personal records) to the teacher and the principal.
If your child's teacher and principal don't take action against the bully within a reasonable time, report the bullying to the school district superintendent in writing. In your letter, outline all instances of bullying and include any other documentation (such as photos) to help prove the bullying exists. If the school district fails to act, they can be liable for your child’s injury as a result of the school bullying.
If your child has been physically assaulted, call the police right away. If your child suffered any physical injuries from the bullying, take pictures as evidence and have your child write a detailed description of what happened to insure accuracy. Depending on the severity of the physical assault, the bully may end up in juvenile detention. The police also have the power to administer a restraining order against the bully that keeps him a safe distance away from your child. And yes, experienced personal injury attorneys are available to help you if you have to take it that far.
Keep in mind: The bully might be a victim, too. They may be learning their behavior from their parents, or maybe the parents are getting divorced, which is a trying time for most kids. Or worse, the child himself is being abused at home. You just don't know.
What can a parent do? The law is on your side. After the Columbine shooting in 1999, which was believed to have been the result of schoolyard bullying, 44 states expressly banned it.
Report the behavior to teachers and the school principal immediately. Make sure to document times, witnesses, and places where your child was bullied. You'll wanna report the instance (or instances, including verbal abuse) as well as send a written report (for your personal records) to the teacher and the principal.
If your child's teacher and principal don't take action against the bully within a reasonable time, report the bullying to the school district superintendent in writing. In your letter, outline all instances of bullying and include any other documentation (such as photos) to help prove the bullying exists. If the school district fails to act, they can be liable for your child’s injury as a result of the school bullying.
If your child has been physically assaulted, call the police right away. If your child suffered any physical injuries from the bullying, take pictures as evidence and have your child write a detailed description of what happened to insure accuracy. Depending on the severity of the physical assault, the bully may end up in juvenile detention. The police also have the power to administer a restraining order against the bully that keeps him a safe distance away from your child. And yes, experienced personal injury attorneys are available to help you if you have to take it that far.
Keep in mind: The bully might be a victim, too. They may be learning their behavior from their parents, or maybe the parents are getting divorced, which is a trying time for most kids. Or worse, the child himself is being abused at home. You just don't know.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Did you know?
Drugstores really mark up many items simply because the consumer is coming in for convenience or because they need a prescription filled. Cosmetics, hair accessories and toys are sold at a high markup to ensure that the drugstore can make some money off those items.
Hair accessories such as brushes, for example, have a 75% markup, he says. Over-the-counter medications, like antacids, pain relievers and vitamins rank among the highest drugstore arkups. Here is the breakdown:
· Antacid Tablets - Markup: 399%
· Pain Relievers - Markup: 398%
· Vitamins - Markup: 395%
· Nasal Decongestant PE - Markup: 392%
· Acne Treatment - Markup: 387%
· Antibiotic Cream - Markup: 385%
· Allergy Medicine - Markup: 377%
· Greeting Cards - Markup: 150% to 200%
· Hair Accessories - Markup: 75%
· Jewelry - Markup: 70%
· Toys - Markup: 50%-60%
· Cosmetics - Markup: 50%-60%
Hair accessories such as brushes, for example, have a 75% markup, he says. Over-the-counter medications, like antacids, pain relievers and vitamins rank among the highest drugstore arkups. Here is the breakdown:
· Antacid Tablets - Markup: 399%
· Pain Relievers - Markup: 398%
· Vitamins - Markup: 395%
· Nasal Decongestant PE - Markup: 392%
· Acne Treatment - Markup: 387%
· Antibiotic Cream - Markup: 385%
· Allergy Medicine - Markup: 377%
· Greeting Cards - Markup: 150% to 200%
· Hair Accessories - Markup: 75%
· Jewelry - Markup: 70%
· Toys - Markup: 50%-60%
· Cosmetics - Markup: 50%-60%
Thursday, March 17, 2011
And Now, Five Random Facts About St. Patrick's Day:
#1.) St. Patrick Wasn't Irish. We've said it before and we'll say it again . . . St. Patrick wasn't actually Irish! He was born in Scotland or Wales, and brought to Ireland as a slave. Also, his name wasn't Patrick . . . his given name was Maewyn.
#2.) Until 1970, Irish Bars Closed On St. Patrick's Day. In 1903, St. Patrick's Day was named a national holiday in Ireland. Nice tribute . . . but in Ireland, bars have to close on national holidays. That was overturned in 1970.
#3.) America Is Far More Irish Than Ireland. There are more than 35 million Americans with Irish ancestry. The population of Ireland is 4.2 million.
#4.) Four Out Of Five Americans Wear Green Today. And about 20 million, or about one out of 13, go to a bar.
#5.) It's Really Easy To Dye The Chicago River. The Chicago River is dyed green for St. Patrick's Day . . . and it only takes 40 pounds of green vegetable dye to do it. That green lasts for a few days.
#2.) Until 1970, Irish Bars Closed On St. Patrick's Day. In 1903, St. Patrick's Day was named a national holiday in Ireland. Nice tribute . . . but in Ireland, bars have to close on national holidays. That was overturned in 1970.
#3.) America Is Far More Irish Than Ireland. There are more than 35 million Americans with Irish ancestry. The population of Ireland is 4.2 million.
#4.) Four Out Of Five Americans Wear Green Today. And about 20 million, or about one out of 13, go to a bar.
#5.) It's Really Easy To Dye The Chicago River. The Chicago River is dyed green for St. Patrick's Day . . . and it only takes 40 pounds of green vegetable dye to do it. That green lasts for a few days.
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