News flash! Feeling fit and fabulous might be a matter of…zip code. To find out which towns make the healthy list, we teamed up with Men's Health in our fourth annual survey of how 100 cities rank in more than 30 categories—from obesity and breast cancer rates to commuting times and hours spent working out. Check out where your city stands, then find out more about the winners.
Today’s the day to quit smoking! Join others today as they give up their cancer sticks during the 36th annual Great American Smokeout. Created and sponsored by the American Cancer Society, the Great American Smokeout is a day dedicated to encouraging smokers to quit or set a date to quit once and for all. With a step-by-step guide to quitting, a countdown clock (that you can download straight to your computer!), and even more tools, the ACS offers resources and support to all those committed to quitting smoking.
The thickness of your gum tissue is genetic; gum disease (or gingivitis) is your own doing. Years of plaque buildup and aggressive brushing wear away at your sensitive gum line, giving it a peeled-back appearance, says Robert W. Gerlach, D.D.S., of P&G Global Oral Care Clinical. Plus, aging decreases the flow of saliva, which helps to wash away plaque-causing bacteria.
Hair gets whiter as you climb in years, but your teeth don’t. With age, the outermost layer of tooth enamel thins and exposes the inner dentin, which has a yellowish hue, says Apa. This is unavoidable, but smoking and consuming food or drink that would stain your clothes will contribute to discolored teeth, especially if you don’t brush immediately afterward, says Timothy Chase, D.M.D., a New York City cosmetic dentist.
Gray teeth are a different beast. “This is caused by the antibiotic tetracycline, which is used to treat bacterial and respiratory infections and acne. It increases calcium levels in your enamel, making it seem darker,” says Apa. If you took this drug when your adult teeth were developing, they probably started to look gray when you were a teen and will continue to gray with age. (The antibiotic is no longer given to children under the age of 8 or to pregnant women, as it can affect the baby’s teeth later in life.)
Teeth have memory in their fibers, so the minute you get your braces off, the little buggers will try to make a beeline for their original spots, according to Arthur Glosman, D.D.S., a dentist and cosmetic dental surgeon in Beverly Hills. And don’t think you’re off the hook if your teeth are naturally straight: Fillings and crowns can cause crowding, and chewing and clenching wear down teeth over time, making them smaller and creating gaps—and anytime there’s a gap, teeth will move or even overlap to fill the space.
Fix it: You can’t prevent shifty teeth, unless you’re willing to wear a retainer or mouth guard every night for the rest of your life. Brushing and flossing can help ward off cavities and the need for fillings, but all teeth shift over time. If yours have become crazy-crooked, ask your dentist about Invisalign, clear aligners you wear day and night (except when eating, brushing, or flossing) for about a year. It’s no bargain at $5,000, but most insurance companies offer partial coverage.
When you meet someone, one of the first things you notice is their smile. “
" >Teeth are the brightest, most visual feature on your face,” says Michael Apa, D.D.S., a cosmetic dentist in New York City. Or at least they should be. Your choppers can make you look older or younger, depending on how well you care for them. Here are the most common age-related dental issues and tips for straightening your smile, repairing your gum line, and
" >whitening discolored teeth.
Cold and flu season is right around the corner, and it’s time to stock up on cold cures and flu fighters.
But before you head to the drug store you may want to think twice—a new, organic alternative to the typical pharmacy has come to town. That’s right, we are talking about Whole Foods! Inside every store is a section called Whole Body, dedicated to helping you look and feel your best. This season they are focusing on strengthening customers’ immune systems.
Eat Your Brussels Sprouts!
Brussels Sprouts get a bad rep. However, when cooked right, this blogger swears they are one of the most delicious veggies. And hey…after all that Halloween candy some greens might be just what you need. Via V.K. Rees Photography
Label Reading Lies
Although we all claim to read the nutrition labels while grocery shopping, a new study reveals that we just don’t have the attention span. Although 33 percent of shoppers say they always check out the calorie count, a lot less actually do. Via CBS News
Delivery Days Are Done
Think “outside of the box” next time you’re craving pizza with this non-traditional pie. The savory toppings are perfect for Fall, and pack quite the nutritional punch. You may never want delivery again. Via Two Peas & Their Pod
Sleepless In Detroit
If you think you need a few extra hours of shut-eye, your hometown may have something to do with it. A national study ranked the sleepiest cities and Detroit was numero uno. Potential reasons? A struggling economy, high rate of crime and high levels of obesity. Via ABC News
A Dip To Impress
Entertaining? A DIY-dip, like this roasted pepper garbanzo version, is bound to impress your guests. Just you? Feel free to double-dip all you want. Via Food-Fitness-FreshAir
Buh-Bye Back Pain!
Yoga isn’t just fun, relaxing and the key to a rockin’ bod – new research proves that all the stretching involved can help ease chronic back pain. Participants saw a 50 percent improvement and were more likely to ditch the pain meds. Via Healthland
Numerous psychological studies have shown that regular meditators are happier and more contented than average. These are not just important results in themselves but have huge medical significance, as such positive emotions are linked to a longer and healthier life.
• Anxiety, depression and irritability all decrease with regular sessions of meditation. Memory also improves, reaction times become faster, and mental and physical stamina increase.
• Regular meditators enjoy better and more fulfilling relationships.
• Studies worldwide have found that meditation reduces the key indicators of chronic stress, including hypertension.
Treatment Overload?
Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression as men. So what’s a girl to do? New research found that more people are seeking out help and antidepressant use has skyrocketed 400% over the last 20 years. Via Healthland
Apples To Apples
We’ve found the perfect way to enjoy the abundance of apples this fall—cinnamon apple chips! Bonus points if you pick your own apples like this blogger did. Via Baked By Rachel
In The Clear
It’s about time to finally set these cellphone-cancer rumors to rest! After years of going back and forth, a massive study confirmed that cell phone addicts have no reason to worry about their usage leading to brain tumors. Via New York Times
When you think of high-risk occupations, it’s usually firefighters, crane operators, and bomb defusers that come to mind. But even seemingly innocuous work environments (home offices included!) can pose a health threat. “Most of us are swept up in day-to-day minutiae, so you may not even realize the toll—both physical and psychological—your job may be taking on you,” says Bryan Robinson, Ph.D., author of Chained to the Desk. Here, what you need to know to stay strong.
DIY Pumpkin Puree
Can’t get enough pumpkin this fall? Why not make your own puree! Sure, you can buy it in a can, but DIY to cut down on preservatives, salt, and sugar. Via Munchin With Munchkin
Sweets For A Sweetie
Halloween is two short weeks away. Is your sweet tooth already getting warmed up? A new study found that people with a taste for sugary treats have sweeter dispositions and are more likely to lend a helping hand. Via Medical News Today
Barley On Top
Barley just got a lot more exciting. Try a spin on a Italian risotto by swapping the grain for the traditional rice. Add some goat cheese and spinach? Voila…dinner is served.Via Shop.Cook.Make.
Good Partner vs. Hot Sex
If you’re wondering why you can’t just have it all, your birth control could be the answer. Since the pill smooths out normal hormonal variations, women are more attracted to the nice-guy-with-a-stable-job type, research says. Via MSNBC
It’s “Chili” Outside
Ok, so we have a bit of a pumpkin addiction this days. But with this chili how could you not? It’s the perfect hearty soup for a crisp fall day. Via Skinnytaste
Marathon Mommy
For some of us, running 26.2 miles sounds plenty daunting – try doing it while pregnant. This woman went into labor with her second child shortly after crossing the Chicago finish line. Find out what the experts have to say about that.
” target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”>Via Healthland
Excuses, excuses: We hear and make them all the time. But when it comes to our bodies, excuses shouldn’t be stopping us from being healthier. Luckily, we discovered this list of 67 ways to reduce stress and improve our lives in less than a minute.
Here are five surprising get-healthy tips we found on Rodale.com (in no particular order):
Veggies or Bust
Veggie lovers rejoice–boy do we have a recipe for you! Embrace the new fall bounty of root vegetables with this roasted vegetable recipe. The perfect side dish for a hearty meal on a crisp fall night. Via Via Relishing It
Makeup Your Mind
Going au natural can be a sexy look, right? Maybe not. New research shows that people perceive women wearing makeup as more competent, likable and attractive. But easy on the eyeliner – too much can come off as less trustworthy. Via ABC
Sweet Potato Spotlight
Sweet potatoes seem to be having a moment right now…and rightly so! These vegetables are nutritional all-stars–high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber–and delicious. Hummus a favorite of yours? Throw in some sweet potatoes for a spin on the traditional chickpea staple.Via Whole Family Fare
Cool It
Picture someone freezing their eggs, and you probably don’t picture someone young with a lot of options on their plate. However, the trend of women freezing eggs for future use is on the rise and some are as young as 30! Is this empowering or kind of scary? Via CNN
The Green Pumpkin Monster
Now that it’s October, we’re having a hard time saying no to anything pumpkin–even this green smoothie! This blogger calls it a pumpkin pie green monster, and says, despite the color, it’s very pumpkin-pie filling like. Via A Full Measure of Happiness
Hydration Education
Gearing up for a marathon? Pay attention to how much H2O you guzzle down during the big race. Recent studies show that more than half of runners aren’t concerned about how much they hydrate. Just remember, only drink when thirsty. Via New York Times
Veggies or Bust
Veggie lovers rejoice–boy do we have a recipe for you! Embrace the new fall bounty of root vegetables with this roasted vegetable recipe. The perfect side dish for a hearty meal on a crisp fall night. Via Via Relishing It
Makeup Your Mind
Going au natural can be a sexy look, right? Maybe not. New research shows that people perceive women wearing makeup as more competent, likable and attractive. But easy on the eyeliner – too much can come off as less trustworthy. Via ABC
Sweet Potato Spotlight
Sweet potatoes seem to be having a moment right now…and rightly so! These vegetables are nutritional all-stars–high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber–and delicious. Hummus a favorite of yours? Throw in some sweet potatoes for a spin on the traditional chickpea staple.Via Whole Family Fare
Cool It
Picture someone freezing their eggs, and you probably don’t picture someone young with a lot of options on their plate. However, the trend of women freezing eggs for future use is on the rise and some are as young as 30! Is this empowering or kind of scary? Via CNN
The Green Pumpkin Monster
Now that it’s October, we’re having a hard time saying no to anything pumpkin–even this green smoothie! This blogger calls it a pumpkin pie green monster, and says, despite the color, it’s very pumpkin-pie filling like. Via A Full Measure of Happiness
Hydration Education
Gearing up for a marathon? Pay attention to how much H2O you guzzle down during the big race. Recent studies show that more than half of runners aren’t concerned about how much they hydrate. Just remember, only drink when thirsty. Via New York Times
Veggies or Bust
Veggie lovers rejoice–boy do we have a recipe for you! Embrace the new fall bounty of root vegetables with this roasted vegetable recipe. The perfect side dish for a hearty meal on a crisp fall night. Via Via Relishing It
Makeup Your Mind
Going au natural can be a sexy look, right? Maybe not. New research shows that people perceive women wearing makeup as more competent, likable and attractive. But easy on the eyeliner – too much can come off as less trustworthy. Via ABC
Sweet Potato Spotlight
Sweet potatoes seem to be having a moment right now…and rightly so! These vegetables are nutritional all-stars–high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber–and delicious. Hummus a favorite of yours? Throw in some sweet potatoes for a spin on the traditional chickpea staple.Via Whole Family Fare
Cool It
Picture someone freezing their eggs, and you probably don’t picture someone young with a lot of options on their plate. However, the trend of women freezing eggs for future use is on the rise and some are as young as 30! Is this empowering or kind of scary? Via CNN
The Green Pumpkin Monster
Now that it’s October, we’re having a hard time saying no to anything pumpkin–even this green smoothie! This blogger calls it a pumpkin pie green monster, and says, despite the color, it’s very pumpkin-pie filling like. Via A Full Measure of Happiness
Hydration Education
Gearing up for a marathon? Pay attention to how much H2O you guzzle down during the big race. Recent studies show that more than half of runners aren’t concerned about how much they hydrate. Just remember, only drink when thirsty. Via New York Times
Veggies or Bust
Veggie lovers rejoice–boy do we have a recipe for you! Embrace the new fall bounty of root vegetables with this roasted vegetable recipe. The perfect side dish for a hearty meal on a crisp fall night. Via Via Relishing It
Makeup Your Mind
Going au natural can be a sexy look, right? Maybe not. New research shows that people perceive women wearing makeup as more competent, likable and attractive. But easy on the eyeliner – too much can come off as less trustworthy. Via ABC
Sweet Potato Spotlight
Sweet potatoes seem to be having a moment right now…and rightly so! These vegetables are nutritional all-stars–high in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber–and delicious. Hummus a favorite of yours? Throw in some sweet potatoes for a spin on the traditional chickpea staple.Via Whole Family Fare
Cool It
Picture someone freezing their eggs, and you probably don’t picture someone young with a lot of options on their plate. However, the trend of women freezing eggs for future use is on the rise and some are as young as 30! Is this empowering or kind of scary? Via CNN
The Green Pumpkin Monster
Now that it’s October, we’re having a hard time saying no to anything pumpkin–even this green smoothie! This blogger calls it a pumpkin pie green monster, and says, despite the color, it’s very pumpkin-pie filling like. Via A Full Measure of Happiness
Hydration Education
Gearing up for a marathon? Pay attention to how much H2O you guzzle down during the big race. Recent studies show that more than half of runners aren’t concerned about how much they hydrate. Just remember, only drink when thirsty. Via New York Times
Holiday Heart Health
The holiday season is approaching and docs are already warning about ticker troubles. Studies have shown a 5 percent increase in heart attacks in the holiday season due to delayed treatment, overindulgence and stress. So keep calm and carol on! Via WebMD
Sweet Potato Remix
With the crisp days of fall right around the corner (or already here!) we can’t think of anything that sounds better than sweet potato dishes. Throw in some curry spices? Too good to be true. Via Naturally Ella
Snacktime Makeover
One small step for vending machines, one giant leap for snackers across the country. Thanks to the FDA, it’s likely that all nutrition info will be posted in vending machines within the next few months. The next step? Healthier options. Via ABC News
Banana Breakfast Bliss
Bored with your same old, same old breakfast routine? Spice up your morning with this banana walnut oatmeal. Bonus: this blogger promises it will fill your house with the smell of baking banana bread. Say no more! Via Kitchen Simplicity
Sing-A-Long
If your voice should never be heard outside the shower, you’re not alone. A fun new study found that half of all non-musicians have cringe-worthy voices (you can thank your genes and shape of your vocal track for that). Via MSNBC
DIY Nut Butter
Put down the Skippy–there’s a new kid in town! Ditch your old store bought nut butters in favor of this honey vanilla almond nut butter. Spread on your favorite bread, or eat straight out of the jar (we won’t judge!). Via The Slow Roasted Italian
Contraception Misconception
That little pink pill you pop every day could have a new, bizarre side effect: change in memory. Docs say the difference in estrogen and progesterone levels might cause women to remember general chains of events rather than specific details. Via Healthland
Sweet, Sweet Indulgence
You were so “good” all summer, that you deserve a little treat now, right? We can’t think of a sweeter (or prettier) indulgence than this pears and cream recipe. Head to the farmers market, pick up some fresh pears, and get ready for an incredible, over-the-top dessert. Via Minimally Invasive
Match Made In Heaven
They say you are the company you keep. But what if the company we keep is actually like us? That’s what a new study found. Although we identify better with people like us, research shows we connect better with diverse groups. Via MSNBC
Potatoes and Okra, Oh My!
If you need the perfect side dish for your first autumn gathering, look no further than this roasted potato and okra salad. The veggie combo packs a nutritious punch, and the rosemary seasoning gives the dish a perfect herbal flavor. Via Erin’s Food Files
Coffee Crazy
National Coffee Day is this Friday. Will you celebrate? Out of the two-thirds of Americans who drink coffee, a new survey says that 65 percent gulp down 13 cups a week. Most have their first cup less than an hour after the alarm sounds. Via Reuters
Pizza Remix
Delicious pizza without the guilt? Sign us up! This flatbread is high-protein, and grain, gluten, starch and sugar free, but this blogger promises it does not lack in flavor!Via Roost
You Go, Girl
First Lady Michelle Obama is back on the scene showing her support for new, healthy meal options. Restaurants like Olive Garden and Red Lobster plan to reduce overall calories and sodium by a whopping 20% over 10 years. Via Chicago Tribune
Israeli Salad
We can’t stop thinking about this blogger’s spin on the traditional Middle Eastern dish. The feta and avocado make this salad more filling than the original—a perfect light lunch! Serve it with falafel, pita, and hummus, or just spread it on toast for a meal on the go. Via Not Derby Pie
Apples To Apples
Packing your diet with fruits and veggies has been proven to lower your risk of stroke. But two new fruits are making their way to center stage: apples and pears. A new Dutch study found that eating white-fleshed fruit can greatly reduce the risk of stroke. Via Science Daily
Something’s Fishy
Remember those tuna sandwiches mom used to make? Well, this baguette is nothing like them. Mixed with red and yellow peppers, garlic, and olives, this tuna and white bean salad is the perfect gourmet spin on your old brown bag lunch. Via Koko’s Kitchen
Stay Calm
Feeling an irrational desire to lash out at someone and you don’t know why? It’s possible your serotonin levels are off balance. Researchers found that stress and not eating enough can trigger intense chemical reactions. Via Reuters
Bring On The Veggies!
Always been a little wary of veggie juice? Well, we think it’s time to take the plunge! The apples in this carrot juice add the perfect touch of sweetness and the rich orange hue is just irresistable. Bonus: this blogger promises that this juice won’t turn you orange.Via Colourful Palate
Easy Elastics
Bored of the same old hair ties you’ve be using since you were a kid? Hate that they break your hair every time you put in a pony? This blogger has the perfect solution! Even better? These elastic hair ties are so cute they double as a bracelet. Via Could I Have That?
Bye, Bye Brazilian
The popular Brazilian Blowout was just deemed a dangerous treatment by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. They found that the smoothing and straightening products used expose salon-goers to formaldehyde, a chemical that’s extremely unsafe to inhale. Via Healthland
DIY Muesli Bars
Tired of buying your own granola bars at the store? Make your own! These organic muesli bars are healthier your run of the mill store bought variety, and cheaper–this blogger says they’re only $5 for a whole tray. Via Easy Peasy Organic
Stress Busters
Emotions are contagious, so catch a good one. Sure, stress can travel fast, but these docs say all kinds of emotions can be caught from the people around you. Via CNN
Southern Hospitality
Everyone deserves a little indulgence sometimes…and we highly suggest these grits. Throw in some roasted tomatoes and goat cheese for a sophisticated spin on the traditional home-cooking. Mmm southern comfort. Via Love and Olive Oil
Doctor (Sometimes) Knows Best
Looking to lose weight? Maybe Weight Watchers is your best bet, research says. A new study found that patients who hopped on the Weight Watchers train dropped twice as many pounds as those who followed the doctor’s orders. Via CBS
Sun Stopper
Summer’s almost over, but are you still stressing about covering every inch of that precious skin in sunblock? So are we. And it’s a pain. The good news is that researchers may have found a formula for a sunblock pill: coral. Via MSNBC
Treat Yourself
Looking for a wholesome treat? Try these whole wheat sweet potato biscuits. These rolls are super healthy, so you won’t feel too guilty when you follow this blogger’s lead and lather them in cinnamon butter. Via Sweet Treats and More
Potato, Potahto
Aside from the fact that a purple potato sounds kind of scary, these secret gems could help you drop pounds and lower blood pressure. Whoever said carbs are the devil was seriously mistaken. Via Web MD
It’s Not Over Yet!
Hold onto those precious summer days with this sweet corn ceviche. Serrano chiles add the perfect amount of heat, for this dish that is great as a side salad, in a quesadilla, or as a condiment for your favorite BBQ meal. Via Sprouted Kitchen
Holy Soft Drinks
The jig is up. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that half, yes HALF, of Americans over age 2 drink a sugary drink every single day. Talk about empty calories. Just imagine the benefits of cutting down… Via ABC
Celery Surprise
We know veggies in a smoothie can be a little off-putting, but we’re convinced this celery blend will change your mind. Plus, it’s a great source of Vitamin C, Potassium, Fiber, and Vitamin K. Need we say more? Via Wishful Chef
This blogger calls it a dessert, but we’re pretty sure it’d make an excellent breakfast treat. The Greek yogurt adds a protein boost and the pomegranate and pistachio combo gives this recipe the perfect boost of crunchy and sweet. Via Junglefrog Cooking
Personality Plans
There are about a million and one reasons for weight gain. What if your personality was one of them? Now, that’s not even fair. Research proves more aggressive and impulsive people are more likely to see sky-high numbers on the scale. Via Fox News
You Say Tomato, I Say Tomahto
Not sure what to do with that wonderful bounty of tomatoes? This blogger has a delicious solution! This transitional cobbler is the perfect link between summer and fall. Via Honey and Jam
No-conut
Supermodel Miranda Kerr credits her trim figure and shiny hair to a whopping four tablespoons a day of coconut oil. Does it work? Docs say probably not. Via ABC News
Cauliflower in the Spotlight
Cauliflower usually takes a backseat to other veggies, however in this vegan salad it finally gets a starring role. The best part? It keeps well, so make a big batch and you’ll be snacking for days. Via No Recipes
Botox Helps What?
Listen up, ladies. Botox is no longer reserved for wrinkle woes. The FDA recently approved Botox as a treatment for bladder problems, in addition to migraines. Needle pricks for fewer trips to the bathroom? You decide. Via US News
Stuffed To The Brim
This quinoa-stuffed eggplant dish is almost too beautiful to eat, but we’re pretty sure after one bite we’ll never want to stop. It’s the perfect way to use that bounty of fresh summer vegetables. Via So Good And Tasty
Fatal Un-attraction
All the single ladies, all the single ladies…hold up a sec. While single life can be a beautiful thing, new research shows that single people kick the bucket about a decade sooner than their married counterparts.Via MSNBC
It’s The Most Important Meal Of The Day…
So why not make it delicious! Whip up these coconut pancakes for your next Sunday brunch for a healthy (use whole wheat flour) spin on a traditional shortstack. Via The Pastry Affair
Doggie Detectors
Pups are great workout buddies, cuddle buddies, and now lifesavers. A new study shows that these furry friends can be trained to detect whether or not a person has lung cancer, pulmonary disease, or even if they smoke. Via Healthland
Green Goodness
Avocado is a good start to anything, and as temperatures continue to rise, why not go for a cold soup? Add some sweet corn, bacon, and spices, and you’ll have a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and zesty. Via Joy The Baker
Lose The ‘Tude
Still ticked at that jerk that cut you off on the way to work? Let it go! Feeling a little bitter once in awhile won’t do much harm, but holding onto grudges causes countless heart and health problems. Via CNN
Eat Your Brussels Sprouts!
Label Reading Lies
Delivery Days Are Done
Sleepless In Detroit
A Dip To Impress
Buh-Bye Back Pain!
Treatment Overload?
Apples To Apples
In The Clear
DIY Pumpkin Puree
Sweets For A Sweetie
Barley On Top
Good Partner vs. Hot Sex
It’s “Chili” Outside
Marathon Mommy
Veggies or Bust
Makeup Your Mind
Sweet Potato Spotlight
Cool It
The Green Pumpkin Monster
Hydration Education
Holiday Heart Health
Sweet Potato Remix
Snacktime Makeover
Banana Breakfast Bliss
Sing-A-Long
DIY Nut Butter
Contraception Misconception
Sweet, Sweet Indulgence
Match Made In Heaven
Potatoes and Okra, Oh My!
Coffee Crazy
Pizza Remix
Is it Worth It?
Why Organic’s So Great
What’s It All Mean?
You Go, Girl
Israeli Salad
Apples To Apples
Something’s Fishy
Stay Calm
Bring On The Veggies!
Easy Elastics
Bye, Bye Brazilian
DIY Muesli Bars
Stress Busters
Southern Hospitality
Doctor (Sometimes) Knows Best
Sun Stopper
Treat Yourself
Potato, Potahto
It’s Not Over Yet!
Holy Soft Drinks
Celery Surprise
Breakfast of Champions
Personality Plans
You Say Tomato, I Say Tomahto
No-conut
Cauliflower in the Spotlight
Botox Helps What?
Stuffed To The Brim
Fatal Un-attraction
It’s The Most Important Meal Of The Day…
Doggie Detectors
Green Goodness
Lose The ‘Tude