Latest news with #KerryJustich
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Freeze your cherries, eat a cup of beans daily and try this hack to fall asleep fast — plus 9 more health tips to help you have a great week
Hello, Yahoo readers! My name is Kaitlin Reilly, and I'm here to share the best health and wellness tips from around the internet. Much has been said about our society's addiction to smartphones and social media, which has been linked to mental health issues, shortened attention spans and even disrupted sleep. An artist recently created a 'methaphone,' a piece of acrylic shaped like an iPhone, in order to help people be more thoughtful about their habits. Meanwhile, some members of Gen Z are eschewing smartphones entirely by practicing 'appstinence' and spending more time in the real world. And speaking of spending time in the real world: This week, Yahoo Reporter Kerry Justich tried Steppin, an app that encourages users to spend more time strolling (and less time scrolling) by making them earn one minute of social media time for every 100 steps they take. She says it's a game changer for avoiding doomscrolling. 'My earned time resets at midnight, which means I wake up to 0 minutes earned and can't start my day scrolling,' Justich writes, noting that using the app gave her more time to 'focus on what's ahead and approach my day more mindfully.' It also helped her resist the quick dopamine hits that 'otherwise keep me reaching for my phone throughout the rest of the day.' Bonus: Because you have to get steps in to access social media, this approach cuts down sedentary time. Sitting for long stretches of time has been linked to negative health outcomes. But you don't need an app to move more — just try going for a walk without your phone. Ready to start this week off right? Take a look at the local weather forecast and peruse your horoscope if you're so inclined. Then check out what small steps you can take to make the week ahead a good one. Cherries are in season — but they won't be for long. Grab an extra bag at the supermarket to pop in your freezer to enjoy later, dietitian Natalie Rizzo tells our friends at Today. These health benefits are worth getting year-round: Cherries are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins, which offer immune support and protection against chronic diseases. Plus, they're excellent for reducing inflammation, making them a good choice for a post-workout smoothie. Simply throw a cup of frozen cherries in a blender with a splash of milk and a spoonful of almond butter (healthy fats!) for a drink that's a twist on the classic PB&J. Beans are budget-friendly and full of protein and fiber. Now, a new study from the Illinois Institute of Technology finds that eating a cup of beans a day can offer important benefits. Over 12 weeks, participants who ate chickpeas saw a drop in cholesterol, while those who ate black beans had reduced inflammation; these are both key risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. Scoop some with whole-grain tortilla chips, add them to a salad or include them in a bowl with rice and chicken for an easy dinner. Or get creative and make this viral chickpea cookie dough recipe for some sweetness. So many people struggle with insomnia. If you're one of them, this viral sleep hack — which resurfaced on social media after initially gaining attention in the 1981 book Relax and Win: Championship Performance — might help. You start by relaxing your body piece by piece, beginning with your forehead and moving down to your toes, while taking slow, deep breaths. Then, clear your mind by imagining calming scenes (like lying in a hammock or napping on the beach). If you're plagued by intrusive thoughts, repeat the phrase 'don't think' for 10 seconds to send them away. Eventually you should doze off, though it may take some practice over weeks in order to really train your body to respond. One key thing needed to fall asleep, sleep specialist Dr. Sanjiv Kothare tells Today, is to make sure you're going to bed only when you're actually tired. If you're wide awake and trying to snooze, you'll frustrate yourself and wind up staying awake longer than you should. 'Get out of bed, go to a different area, read a book in dim light — do something boring, come back to bed,' he advises. 'In 20 minutes, do it again and keep doing it back and forth until you fall asleep.' Want to protect your brain health? Consider the MIND diet. As NBC News reports, researchers from the University of Hawaii and the University of Southern California found that following this eating plan — which focuses on brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, olive oil and fish and limits red meat, cheese, fried foods and sweets — could lower people's risk of developing dementia, with those who upped their adherence to the diet over 10 years seeing a 25% lower risk. One easy way to start is to get into leafy greens; the diet suggests six or more servings per week. Instead of relying on spinach, switch it up by getting kale, Swiss chard, collard greens or bok choy instead. Trying to stop scarfing down your food? It's time to spice up your life. A study from Penn State found that adding a little spice to your meal — just enough to feel a slight 'oral burn' from ingredients like chili peppers — can help you eat less without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. In experiments using spicy vs. mild versions of dishes like chili and tikka masala, participants who ate the spicier meals consumed fewer calories. Researchers say this slower eating pace helps your body better recognize when it's full, meaning you'll be more satisfied with your meal while consuming less food overall. So, if you can handle the heat, toss some chili peppers, hot paprika or crushed red pepper flakes into your next dish. McDonald's is bringing back its popular Snack Wrap this July, according to CBS News. While there's no harm in hitting the drive-through every once in a while, you can also whip up a healthier version at home. The classic wrap includes a crispy chicken strip, cheddar jack cheese, lettuce and a creamy ranch or honey mustard sauce in a soft tortilla. For a better-for-you take, swap in a whole wheat tortilla for more fiber, grilled chicken breast instead of the fried version and a tangy Greek yogurt-based sauce in place of the heavier dressing. Pile on extra veggies like tomatoes and shredded carrots for a boost of vitamins and fiber. While it's vital to drink water to keep your body functioning properly, you probably need extra hydration on super-hot days or during extreme exercise. That said, traditional sports drinks often come loaded with sugar. One solution, per EatingWell, is to drink unsweetened coconut water. You'll cut back on calories and sugar while still getting all-important electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. Dietitians also point out that unsweetened coconut water is a good option for people with diabetes, as staying hydrated can keep blood glucose levels balanced. Nicer weather means taking your exercise outdoors. One great way to do that is by biking. As USA Today explains, cycling, which is considered a moderate-intensity activity, gets your heart pumping, lowers blood pressure and cuts your risk of heart disease while also keeping blood sugar and cholesterol in check. Studies also show it can help you maintain a healthy weight. If you live in a bikeable neighborhood, consider running basic errands by bike rather than car. You'll save gas (win for your wallet and the environment) while also sneaking in some extra exercise. A study published in Nature Food found that eating a wide variety of flavonoid-rich foods — like tea, berries, apples, oranges, dark chocolate and even red wine — may lower your risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. Since different flavonoids have different benefits for the body, the key to ideal health is making sure you consume as many different kinds as possible rather than, say, just loading up on tea. So, add some blueberries to your oatmeal in the morning, snack on an orange and have a square of dark chocolate after dinner. It's OK to feel angry sometimes. But if you find yourself bubbling with rage at inopportune moments, there are ways to redirect. Ethan Kross, a professor of psychology, tells USA Today that while there are "no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to managing anger," there are some 'tools' you can use to cope. That includes shifting gears when you feel angry. Before reacting, take a beat and do something distracting, like splashing cold water on your face, stepping outside or counting down from 10. When you return, your anger will likely have simmered down. If you find yourself dealing with bouts of anger frequently, however, it's time to look at what might really be troubling you, be it a lack of sleep or work stress. A doctor can help direct you toward next steps. If you're headed out on a summer trip, try this viral packing hack shared by Yahoo Creator Alesandra Dubin. It's super-simple: Next time you're considering what you should put in your suitcase, pick up three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes. You can mix and match these items to create up to 27 different outfit combinations, meaning you'll always feel fresh and stylish while staying under your airline's weight limit. The key, of course, is to make sure these items go well together while still having enough versatility for your trip's needs. For example, instead of packing three pairs of sneakers, you could throw in a dressier option in case you're out to a nice dinner. And don't forget to consider color: While you don't have to go with a neutral palette, choosing a color scheme will make picking out vacay outfits easier. Adore your morning cup of joe? It might have longevity benefits, according to a study from the University of Toronto. As CNN reports, researchers discovered that women in their 50s who drank one to three cups of caffeinated coffee per day were more likely to reach older age in good cognitive, physical and mental health and without any major chronic diseases. Meanwhile, caffeinated beverages like soda and tea — and even decaffeinated coffee — didn't have the same results, suggesting that caffeine-packed coffee in particular has special properties connected to longevity. While the study does not suggest people who aren't already coffee drinkers pick up the habit, it's clear that regular consumers are on the right track. Just keep in mind how caffeine affects your sleep, anxiety levels and digestion.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Freeze your cherries, eat a cup of beans daily and try this hack to fall asleep fast — plus 9 more health tips to help you have a great week
Hello, Yahoo readers! My name is Kaitlin Reilly, and I'm here to share the best health and wellness tips from around the internet. Much has been said about our society's addiction to smartphones and social media, which has been linked to mental health issues, shortened attention spans and even disrupted sleep. An artist recently created a 'methaphone,' a piece of acrylic shaped like an iPhone, in order to help people be more thoughtful about their habits. Meanwhile, some members of Gen Z are eschewing smartphones entirely by practicing 'appstinence' and spending more time in the real world. And speaking of spending time in the real world: This week, Yahoo Reporter Kerry Justich tried Steppin, an app that encourages users to spend more time strolling (and less time scrolling) by making them earn one minute of social media time for every 100 steps they take. She says it's a game changer for avoiding doomscrolling. 'My earned time resets at midnight, which means I wake up to 0 minutes earned and can't start my day scrolling,' Justich writes, noting that using the app gave her more time to 'focus on what's ahead and approach my day more mindfully.' It also helped her resist the quick dopamine hits that 'otherwise keep me reaching for my phone throughout the rest of the day.' Bonus: Because you have to get steps in to access social media, this approach cuts down sedentary time. Sitting for long stretches of time has been linked to negative health outcomes. But you don't need an app to move more — just try going for a walk without your phone. Ready to start this week off right? Take a look at the local weather forecast and peruse your horoscope if you're so inclined. Then check out what small steps you can take to make the week ahead a good one. Cherries are in season — but they won't be for long. Grab an extra bag at the supermarket to pop in your freezer to enjoy later, dietitian Natalie Rizzo tells our friends at Today. These health benefits are worth getting year-round: Cherries are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanins, which offer immune support and protection against chronic diseases. Plus, they're excellent for reducing inflammation, making them a good choice for a post-workout smoothie. Simply throw a cup of frozen cherries in a blender with a splash of milk and a spoonful of almond butter (healthy fats!) for a drink that's a twist on the classic PB&J. Beans are budget-friendly and full of protein and fiber. Now, a new study from the Illinois Institute of Technology finds that eating a cup of beans a day can offer important benefits. Over 12 weeks, participants who ate chickpeas saw a drop in cholesterol, while those who ate black beans had reduced inflammation; these are both key risk factors for heart disease and diabetes. Scoop some with whole-grain tortilla chips, add them to a salad or include them in a bowl with rice and chicken for an easy dinner. Or get creative and make this viral chickpea cookie dough recipe for some sweetness. So many people struggle with insomnia. If you're one of them, this viral sleep hack — which resurfaced on social media after initially gaining attention in the 1981 book Relax and Win: Championship Performance — might help. You start by relaxing your body piece by piece, beginning with your forehead and moving down to your toes, while taking slow, deep breaths. Then, clear your mind by imagining calming scenes (like lying in a hammock or napping on the beach). If you're plagued by intrusive thoughts, repeat the phrase 'don't think' for 10 seconds to send them away. Eventually you should doze off, though it may take some practice over weeks in order to really train your body to respond. One key thing needed to fall asleep, sleep specialist Dr. Sanjiv Kothare tells Today, is to make sure you're going to bed only when you're actually tired. If you're wide awake and trying to snooze, you'll frustrate yourself and wind up staying awake longer than you should. 'Get out of bed, go to a different area, read a book in dim light — do something boring, come back to bed,' he advises. 'In 20 minutes, do it again and keep doing it back and forth until you fall asleep.' Want to protect your brain health? Consider the MIND diet. As NBC News reports, researchers from the University of Hawaii and the University of Southern California found that following this eating plan — which focuses on brain-healthy foods like leafy greens, berries, nuts, whole grains, olive oil and fish and limits red meat, cheese, fried foods and sweets — could lower people's risk of developing dementia, with those who upped their adherence to the diet over 10 years seeing a 25% lower risk. One easy way to start is to get into leafy greens; the diet suggests six or more servings per week. Instead of relying on spinach, switch it up by getting kale, Swiss chard, collard greens or bok choy instead. Trying to stop scarfing down your food? It's time to spice up your life. A study from Penn State found that adding a little spice to your meal — just enough to feel a slight 'oral burn' from ingredients like chili peppers — can help you eat less without sacrificing flavor or satisfaction. In experiments using spicy vs. mild versions of dishes like chili and tikka masala, participants who ate the spicier meals consumed fewer calories. Researchers say this slower eating pace helps your body better recognize when it's full, meaning you'll be more satisfied with your meal while consuming less food overall. So, if you can handle the heat, toss some chili peppers, hot paprika or crushed red pepper flakes into your next dish. McDonald's is bringing back its popular Snack Wrap this July, according to CBS News. While there's no harm in hitting the drive-through every once in a while, you can also whip up a healthier version at home. The classic wrap includes a crispy chicken strip, cheddar jack cheese, lettuce and a creamy ranch or honey mustard sauce in a soft tortilla. For a better-for-you take, swap in a whole wheat tortilla for more fiber, grilled chicken breast instead of the fried version and a tangy Greek yogurt-based sauce in place of the heavier dressing. Pile on extra veggies like tomatoes and shredded carrots for a boost of vitamins and fiber. While it's vital to drink water to keep your body functioning properly, you probably need extra hydration on super-hot days or during extreme exercise. That said, traditional sports drinks often come loaded with sugar. One solution, per EatingWell, is to drink unsweetened coconut water. You'll cut back on calories and sugar while still getting all-important electrolytes like potassium and magnesium. Dietitians also point out that unsweetened coconut water is a good option for people with diabetes, as staying hydrated can keep blood glucose levels balanced. Nicer weather means taking your exercise outdoors. One great way to do that is by biking. As USA Today explains, cycling, which is considered a moderate-intensity activity, gets your heart pumping, lowers blood pressure and cuts your risk of heart disease while also keeping blood sugar and cholesterol in check. Studies also show it can help you maintain a healthy weight. If you live in a bikeable neighborhood, consider running basic errands by bike rather than car. You'll save gas (win for your wallet and the environment) while also sneaking in some extra exercise. A study published in Nature Food found that eating a wide variety of flavonoid-rich foods — like tea, berries, apples, oranges, dark chocolate and even red wine — may lower your risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, type 2 diabetes and cancer. Since different flavonoids have different benefits for the body, the key to ideal health is making sure you consume as many different kinds as possible rather than, say, just loading up on tea. So, add some blueberries to your oatmeal in the morning, snack on an orange and have a square of dark chocolate after dinner. It's OK to feel angry sometimes. But if you find yourself bubbling with rage at inopportune moments, there are ways to redirect. Ethan Kross, a professor of psychology, tells USA Today that while there are "no one-size-fits-all solutions when it comes to managing anger," there are some 'tools' you can use to cope. That includes shifting gears when you feel angry. Before reacting, take a beat and do something distracting, like splashing cold water on your face, stepping outside or counting down from 10. When you return, your anger will likely have simmered down. If you find yourself dealing with bouts of anger frequently, however, it's time to look at what might really be troubling you, be it a lack of sleep or work stress. A doctor can help direct you toward next steps. If you're headed out on a summer trip, try this viral packing hack shared by Yahoo Creator Alesandra Dubin. It's super-simple: Next time you're considering what you should put in your suitcase, pick up three tops, three bottoms and three pairs of shoes. You can mix and match these items to create up to 27 different outfit combinations, meaning you'll always feel fresh and stylish while staying under your airline's weight limit. The key, of course, is to make sure these items go well together while still having enough versatility for your trip's needs. For example, instead of packing three pairs of sneakers, you could throw in a dressier option in case you're out to a nice dinner. And don't forget to consider color: While you don't have to go with a neutral palette, choosing a color scheme will make picking out vacay outfits easier. Adore your morning cup of joe? It might have longevity benefits, according to a study from the University of Toronto. As CNN reports, researchers discovered that women in their 50s who drank one to three cups of caffeinated coffee per day were more likely to reach older age in good cognitive, physical and mental health and without any major chronic diseases. Meanwhile, caffeinated beverages like soda and tea — and even decaffeinated coffee — didn't have the same results, suggesting that caffeine-packed coffee in particular has special properties connected to longevity. While the study does not suggest people who aren't already coffee drinkers pick up the habit, it's clear that regular consumers are on the right track. Just keep in mind how caffeine affects your sleep, anxiety levels and digestion.
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Stop making this handwashing mistake, eat shrimp and use the Pomodoro technique to clean up — plus 8 more tips to improve your health
Hello Yahoo Life readers! My name is Kaitlin Reilly, and I am here to share the best health and wellness tips from around the internet. This week, Kerry Justich spoke to American track and field Olympian Gabby Thomas, who spilled her wellness routine. This includes drinking coffee, which Thomas says is 'one of the first things I do every morning.' The athlete may not be ditching coffee anytime soon, but plenty of people are, whether that's due to caffeine jitters or digestive woes. The good news? There are some excellent coffee alternatives on the market. This week, I explored whether beanless brews and coffee blends — some of which are made with mushrooms or upcycled ingredients like date pits — are a good solution for when you're craving a pick-me-up that isn't a traditional cup of joe. While experts say there's no reason to ditch coffee if your body responds well to it, you could get some perks by sipping on these beverages, such as a brain boost from adaptogens like reishi. Take a peek at the local weather forecast and, if so inclined, peruse your horoscope to see what the stars have in store. Then check out what small steps you can take to make the week ahead great. The National Foundation for Infectious Diseases just released its State of Handwashing report, which revealed that 48% of Americans are not washing their hands at key times. But some may not be aware of what those times even are. For example, while most Americans sudsed up after going to the bathroom and handling food (phew!), the NFID says that we should also be washing our hands after visiting food-centric places — like a grocery store, restaurant or coffee shop — as well as the doctor's office, pharmacy or hospital. These places have the potential to be particularly germy, and those germs can go from your hands into your mouth, eyes or nose and get you sick. An easy habit to stick with? Wash your hands every time you come home, and make sure you're doing it the right way: Scrub with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, making sure to get under your fingernails. Don't forget to properly dry your hands too; wet hands spread germs more easily. May 10 is National Shrimp Day, but there are a lot of reasons to eat this crustacean year-round. One big benefit of shrimp is that it's very low in calories while also being high in protein — a three-ounce serving has about 20 grams of protein. Plus, it also contains minerals like potassium, phosphorus and magnesium. Want to get the best-tasting shrimp? While it may make dinner take a little longer to prepare due to the de-shelling process, buying shrimp that are still in their shells will deepen that umami flavor. It's already May, and you still haven't gotten around to spring cleaning? It's time to stop procrastinating. Yes, organizing your closets and filing 6 months' worth of random paperwork can feel overwhelming, but Apartment Therapy has a handy hack: Try cleaning with the Pomodoro technique, a method in which you work in focused 25-minute intervals followed by five-minute breaks. The goal? Staying motivated while also breaking down big tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks. Your house will get clean and you won't lose your mind in the process — a win-win! Weird … but kind of genius? A writer at Salon found that her smoothies tasted even better when she started using roasted fruit. Think roasting peaches with honey and cinnamon, or creating an apple pie-inspired smoothie by baking apples, storing them in the fridge overnight and then blending them with rolled oats in the a.m. It's a great way to make a morning smoothie way more exciting with new flavors. The latest fitness craze on social media? People doing 100 kettlebell swings a day. You don't need to do that many reps to enjoy the benefits of this exercise, however. 'Most of us spend a lot of time sitting — on our phones, at our computers, in our cars — which makes the front of our body super-tight and pulls us into that rounded, hunchback position,' personal trainer Nico Gonzalez tells Yahoo Life. 'When done correctly, kettlebell swings really activate the muscles along your spine, the backs of your arms and the backs of your legs, which helps bring your posture upright. So, it's actually a really great corrective exercise.' Research says that working out with kettlebells can improve your grip and muscle strength overall, as well as lower inflammation. This week, make your gym workout all about kettlebells with this five-move kettlebell plan. I recently hit up an infrared sauna on my longevity treatment journey and was so glad I did; there's nothing more relaxing than getting a good sweat in. But there's science behind the sweat too: Regularly using a sauna has been shown to reduce joint and muscle stiffness, improve your immune system and enhance sleep. Plus, spending time in a sauna has also been linked to a better mood. I, for one, am never happier. Try sitting in a sauna for 15 to 20 minutes, Dr. Jaclyn Tolentino, a primary care physician at tells Women's Health. If you feel dizzy or sick, step out. "Sauna use should feel like a supportive ritual, not a challenge to power through,' Tolentino explains. "The key is to listen to your body — it should feel nourishing, not punishing." Gossiping has an admittedly bad reputation. But there's actually some good that can come from talking about others. 'Human connection through shared information and communication is core to who we are and connects us to each other,' Thea Gallagher, director of wellness programs at NYU Langone Health, tells Fox News. 'We might feel closer to someone when we know they are confiding in us with information and vice versa.' And gossiping can also build empathy. For example, if you get wind that someone else is dealing with something (divorce, a sick parent, etc.) you can relate to, you may feel more connected to that person and be even more likely to open up to them in the future. The key to making sure gossip never becomes malicious or catty is to ensure it's coming from a place of curiosity, rather than to harm someone's reputation through the spread of mean-spirited comments. May 11 is National Foam Rolling Day, which should be your reminder to break out your roller after an intense exercise session. Foam rolling is a practice in which you use a foam cylinder (or sometimes even something spherical, like a hard rubber ball) to apply pressure to sore or tight muscles. This targets fascia, aka the connective tissue surrounding muscles and organs. It helps increase blood flow, reduce muscle tension and improve flexibility, making it an excellent way to aid in recovery, not to mention prevent injury next time you work out. Need help getting started? Try these two easy exercises from Men's Fitness. And make sure to skip foam rolling your neck, joint areas or anywhere that you're already injured; you could do more harm than good. In the mood to try a new tea? Try dandelion tea — especially if you deal with digestive discomfort. Dandelion tea can help relieve bloating, which can potentially come from eating a high-sodium diet, thanks to its natural diuretic properties, helping to flush excess fluid from the body. But that's not the only reason to try this herbal tea: Dandelion tea is packed with antioxidants, including beta-carotene, in addition to being a good source of vitamin A. You may have seen the 'okra water' trend making its rounds on TikTok, with some claiming that this drink — which is made by soaking sliced raw okra pods overnight and straining out the solids — helps with blood sugar control. While there haven't been studies confirming this, there is still a good reason to eat okra, which is packed with fiber, minerals and antioxidants. It's specifically a great source of magnesium and folate, which support muscle and heart health. Try pickling it, using shorter pods and patting them dry before brining to avoid a slimy texture. Resistance training is so important for maintaining muscle mass and bone health. This week, change things up by picking up a medicine ball. Training with a medicine ball helps build 'explosive power, increases body strength, increases speed and provides more versatile movement in different planes,' fitness coach Tatiana Lampa tells Women's Health. You can slam a medicine ball, toss it or twist with it beyond what you could do with a traditional weight. Plus, the shape and feel of a medicine ball means it mimics real-world activities — like, say, lifting a toddler or carrying a bag of groceries — which helps build functional strength.
