Home/Women's Lifestyle/First for Women/September 3, 2018/In This Issue
First for Women|September 3, 20187 things making us happyBliss in every biteSweet tropical treat“Every summer, I host a Hawaiian luau-themed gathering,” says Nicole Aber, FIRST associate food editor. “And what better dessert to serve than these fun tropical sundaes? To make two fruit ‘bowls,’ I use one large pineapple. First, I cut the top off, then I cut 1/2 inch from the bottom to create a level base. Next, I cut the pineapple in half horizontally, scoop out all the fruit and reserve it for other recipes. Then I add two scoops of tropical-flavored sorbet like coconut or mango into each pineapple bowl and top with berries and a few sprigs of mint. My friends and family always flip for this island-style treat!”Dazzling on a dimeCute teacup tower“Nothing wows like bright garden blooms in the summer sunshine,” says…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Wow with half-up hairA side swoopLIFTS FEATURESSideswept bangs with a slight pouf draw focus up diagonally, giving eyes and cheekbones a visual lift.TO DO: Curl 1" sections with a 2" curling iron. Create a deep side part in line with the arch of the brow; lightly tease roots. Next, sweep the lighter side of the part back and the heavy side across, then twist the two sections together in back and pin to secure.A wavy sweepVOLUMIZES HAIRThe bounce of piecey waves makes fine strands look three times thicker while also masking any thinning near the temples.TO DO: Wrap 2" sections around a 1" curling iron; let cool. Tease hair at the crown, part at the side. Then, leaving out 2" sections on each side of the face, sweep hair behind the ears; pin…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Revitalize with summer veggiesENERGIZERWhether you prefer them in red, orange, yellow or green, adding 1 cup of bell peppers to a meal will increase your energy by 33 percent for three hours—and enjoying them daily could cut your risk of draggy fatigue in half. Norwegian scientists say those cheery colors are the result of carotenoids—antioxidants that soak into muscle and brain cells to switch on genes that heighten insulin sensitivity and improve the absorption and metabolism of energizing glucose.WRINKLE ERASERSummer squash like zucchini and pattypans are rich in lutein and zeaxanthin—skin-healing nutrients that erase dryness, flaking and fine lines, helping your skin look up to five years younger if you enjoy 1 cup daily, say Yale University scientists. Tip: Pairing squash with fat doubles lutein and zeaxanthin absorption, so consider drizzling grilled veggies…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 20183 treats that SPEED SLIMMINGDark chocolateAbundant stores of plant compounds (called epicatechins) in chocolate stimulate blood vessels to boost nitric oxide production by 54 percent. According to scientists at the University of Indonesia, all it takes to get the benefits is 30 grams (a serving about the size of your index finger) of 70 percent dark chocolate daily.WatermelonThis juicy-sweet summertime favorite is a rich source of an amino acid precursor to nitric oxide. Researchers in Japan discovered that increasing your intake works to boost nitric oxide concentration in the blood by 50 percent.PomegranatePolyphenols in pomegranate juice assist in the production of nitric oxide, helping raise the body’s levels by 44 percent. These same polyphenols also protect nitric oxide from the free-damage that can deplete the body’s stores of the slimming compound.…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018So simple, so effective!Increasing the body’s production of nitric oxide instantly improves the flow of nutrient-rich blood, firing up the body’s ability to burn fat for fuel. “With enough nitric oxide, your blood-vessel walls relax, allowing more life-supporting oxygen and other nutrients to flood your body,” explains Christiane Northrup, M.D., author of Dodging Energy Vampires. This effect supercharges energy and helps melt stubborn pounds—and all it takes to see results is incorporating some easy diet and lifestyle strategies.To start dialing up levels of nitric oxide, enjoy plenty of the foods that support the creation of the compound. “The body requires a supply of the amino acid arginine and plant-based nitrates, which act as the precursors to nitric oxide,” says anti-aging expert Joseph Mercola, D.O., author of Fat for Fuel. Simply incorporate at least…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018quick bitsAnother good reason to soak in the sunIt can ward off the flu next winter, according to Harvard University researchers. In their study, every 10 percent increase in sun exposure in August and September was linked to a 30 percent drop in the number of flu cases in the winter. The authors say vitamin D from sunlight bolsters the immune system, improving the body’s ability to fight off bacteria and viruses. Since the vitamin can be “stockpiled” in the body for up to two months, the researchers advise getting 15 minutes of sunlight a day now.Conquer cravings— fastNext time you have a hankering for a cupcake, instead of trying to ignore your craving, researchers reporting in the International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology suggest paying keen attention to it. In a study…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Sleep bruxism drains 7 in 10 women—yet 80% go undiagnosedSoaring stress is to blame for a sharp rise in sleep bruxism—and women over 45 are impacted most, possibly due to hormonal flux that increases risk of muscle tension, suggests research in the journal Sleep.Bruxism prevents the muscle relaxation needed for restorative sleep. Grinding keeps muscles around the jaw tense, says Tim Chase, D.M.D., a cosmetic dentist in New York City. And the biting force during sleep can be six times greater than with daytime grinding. “Imagine how tired you’d feel if you were doing bicep curls all night as you slept.” This leads to “deep-sleep deprivation,” fatigue and pain. But 8 in 10 sleep bruxers have no idea they’re grinding—and doctors often fail to make the link.A flashlight can ID bruxism, says holistic dentist Kelly Blodgett, D.M.D. Or try…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018How strength training lowers blood sugar and blasts fatCardio is often recommended for controlling blood sugar, but research shows that working with weights can actually be more effective. “Cardio workouts let your muscles use glucose right away, but the effects wear off within 2 to 72 hours,” explains exercise physiologist and diabetes expert Sheri Colberg-Ochs, Ph.D., author of Exercise and Diabetes. “Strength training has more lasting effects.” The reason: “If you have more muscle, you can store more carbohydrates, so the amount of glucose in your blood goes down.” Increasing muscle mass also makes the body more efficient at burning carbs for fuel, helping to reduce blood-sugar spikes. The effect is so powerful that in one study, strength training reduced post-menopausal women’s risk of diabetes by 43 percent. To get the benefits, follow Mary Robert’s lead and do…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 20183 WOW-WORTHY chicken lunchesCraving CREAMY?This twist on a Waldorf salad gets pops of sweetness and crunch from grapes and walnuts. Pack with lettuce cups or whole-grain bread on the side and assemble just before eating. To make: Mix 1 cup diced chicken, 1/ 4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 Tbs. olive oil, 2 Tbs. red wine vinegar, 1/ 4 cup halved grapes and 2 Tbs. walnuts.Craving SPICY?In a hurry? This Tex-Mex soup requires no cooking and hardly any prep work—just assemble in heatproof jars and add hot water at lunchtime. To make: In jar, combine 3/ 4 cup salsa, 1/ 2 tsp. chili powder, 1/ 2 cup black beans and corn and 1/ 2 cup shredded rotisserie chicken. Pour 1/ 2 cup hot water into jar right before eating.Craving SMOKY?Packed with savory bacon,…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Too delicious to be so healthy!Marinara Meatballs & CouscousACTIVE TIME: 10 min. TOTAL TIME: 30 min. SERVES: 6DAIRY-FREEFor a lower carb dish, sauté 4 cups of cauliflower rice with frozen vegetables and use in place of couscous1 onion, diced 2 cloves garlic, minced 3 Tbs. olive oil, divided 1½ lbs. lean ground beef ¼ cup fresh minced parsley 1 (32 oz.) jar tomato sauce2 cups dry couscous1 cup frozen mixed vegetables1 In pan over medium-high heat, cook onions and garlic in 1 Tbs. oil 5 min. Transfer to bowl; mix in beef and parsley. Season. Form mixture into 2" balls. Add 2 Tbs. oil to pan; sear meatballs 15 min., turning often. Add sauce; simmer 5 min.2 In pot over high heat, boil 3 cups water. Add last 2 ingredients, cover and turn off heat.…5 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018“I went from a size 24 to a size 8!”Sitting in her doctor’s office, Charlotte Taylor couldn’t stop worrying over what the physician had just said: The next step is knee surgery. “I wanted to avoid surgery at all costs,” Charlotte remembers. “When I asked him what else I could do, he said, ‘Lose weight,’ and I knew that was my only option.”Charlotte had always been active, so she had never given her weight or her health much thought…until knee pain started to keep her from enjoying Zumba classes and activities that she loved. “My doctor prescribed pain medication and cortisone shots,” she says. “They helped a bit to relieve the pain, but they were never enough to make it go away altogether.”Ready to make healthy changes to her diet but unsure where to start, Charlotte turned to social…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Healthy bake-sale treatsHidden-Goodness Fudge BrowniesACTIVE TIME: 10 min. TOTAL TIME: 40 min. SERVES: 121 avocado2 eggs1 cup maple syrup1 tsp. vanilla extract1/4 cup olive oil11/2 cups dark chocolate chips, melted1/2 cup cocoa powder1 cup flour1 tsp. baking powderHeat oven to 350°F. In food processor, blend avocado, eggs, maple syrup, vanilla and oil. Pulse in melted chocolate, cocoa powder, flour and baking powder. Pour batter into lined 8" square baking dish. Bake 30 min.Per serving: Cal. 297 Pro. 3g Carb. 41g Fiber 4g Sug. 25g Chol. 31mg Sod. 57mg Total fat: 16g Sat. 6g Trans. 0gHEALTH BONUSSpeed slimming with avocado. This buttery fruit stimulates the production of a hormone that increases belly-fat burn by 56 percent.Phone-friendly: Snap and save or share!Banana-Coconut CupcakesACTIVE TIME: 20 min. TOTAL TIME: 50 min. SERVES: 12DAIRY-FREEGLUTEN-FREE2 bananas, mashed1/2…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018A pretty-in-pink display to brighten the dayWHAT’S NEWThis month, florists are styling bright, fragrant blooms in galvanized pails for dreamy no-fuss centerpieces.“This floral mix offers a romantic feel with its sultry pink shades and captivating scents of sweet pea, mint and oregano,” says floral expert Kathy Shumac. “And the rustic pail adds an extra layer of laid-back charm. Between the eye-catching texture and the sweet fragrance, it’s sure to impress!”GET THE LOOKNestle a 5"-tall glass vase inside a 6"-tall galvanized pail. Fill the vase with water, then cut 18 seasonal blooms (like coneflowers, cosmos, sweet pea and oregano) in a range of pink hues to 8 to 10 inches. Cut a handful of phlox and mint to the same lengths. Arrange the blooms in your hand, twirling as you add each flower randomly and at an…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 201810 brilliant uses for WITCH HAZEL1 Salvage clumpy nail polishYou finally found the time to sit down and give yourself a pedicure, but the nail polish you planned on using is clumpy. What can help: Add a few drops of witch hazel to the bottle, close and shake well. Witch hazel contains alcohol, which acts as a thinner to smooth out clumps so you can easily paint your nails.2 Make kitchen floors shineIf heavy foot traffic has left your floor looking dingy, try this DIY shine treatment: Pour 1/ 2 cup of witch hazel and 1 gallon of warm water into a bucket and use the solution to mop the floor. Solvents in witch hazel will strip away old wax (which causes discoloration) and dissolve dirt. (This solution can be used on vinyl, linoleum or…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 20183 SMART WAYS TO SAVE EVEN MOREPay automaticallySome of the major phone carriers offer discounts as high as $10 off per month per line when you sign up for paperless billing and opt to have your payment sent automatically each month.Skip insuranceIf your phone is more than three years old, insurance isn’t worth it—the deductible will cost as much as a comparable phone. For newer phones, see if your home insurance will cover it.Check your billTaxes and fees vary from state to state, so if you’ve recently moved or have a child who has gone to college, you could save money simply by going online to update your service address.…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Cash in on your love of antiques!“I bring in $1,500 a month with how-to videos on YouTube!”“After I was laid off and went through a divorce, I needed to find a way to make money. I started selling vintage items on eBay, and when I made $1,500 in the first month, I decided to turn it into a business. Eventually, I started coaching people on how to sell items on eBay, but as traffic started to drop off, I realized I needed to find another way to market my business. I decided to post videos on my YouTube channel (eBayCoach) and I soon figured out that I could make money with Google AdSense, a service that places advertisem*nts on your videos.“I was surprised at how easy it is to create the videos. First, I come up…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Grill up smiles!Chocolate-Covered Grilled Watermelon Pops6 (4" long, 2" wide) pieces of watermelon1 cup dark chocolate chips1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut1 Heat grill for indirect cooking. Place watermelon pieces on grates. Grill 4 min.on each side. Let cool.2 In bowl over double boiler, melt chocolate chips. Insert Popsicle sticks into bottom rind side of each piece of watermelon. Dip each piece halfway into melted chocolate, covering all sides to coat. Place on parchment paper. Sprinkle with coconut and sea salt, if desired. Chill at least 1 hr. or until chocolate is set.Active time: 15 min. Total time: 1 1/2 hrs. Makes: 6…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Feel at peace on CulebraLocated just 17 miles off the east coast of Puerto Rico is the small picturesque island of Culebra. With gorgeous vistas, perfect weather and a serene vibe, it’s no wonder visitors are drawn to this off-the-beaten-path oasis. And despite being only 7 miles long, this Isla Chiquita (“Little Island”) boasts world-class diving reefs, delicious restaurants and the finest beaches in the Caribbean.Begin your day at breathtaking Flamenco Beach, consistently voted one of the top 10 beaches in the world. “There’s plenty of space to unwind and enjoy the jeweled-tone blue and aqua colors of the water,” says a reviewer from Illinois. “You can rent umbrellas, but we found shade under the palm trees. And don’t miss the beach kiosks for grabbing a cool drink!”To discover the beauty that awaits you…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018last laugh“I thought you said this was a private pool.”SMILE FILE“Starbucks announced that people may sit at their tables and use the bathroom even if they don’t purchase anything. Starbucks said, ‘If just one person buys a Venti latte, our costs are covered for the year.’” —Conan O’Brien“Wake us if there’s a sale on video games.”THAT’S LIFE!Our car before a road tripOur car on the way home from a road tripThings kids sayGENEALOGY 101I had picked up my 4-year-old son, Nathan, from a sleepover at my mother’s house and he was super-excited to tell me all the fun things they did together. When he finished his recap, Nathan said, “Grandma’s so good with kids! Why doesn’t she have any of her own?” —Elizabeth Cooper, Charlottesville, VAWe want to hear from YOU!Have…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018smart YOU solutionsOutsmart stress in secondsWhen nothing is going right and you’re ready to lose it, blowing bubbles—or even pretending to—can quickly summon serenity. The activity forces you to take slow, deep breaths that increase oxygen intake and lower blood pressure, slashing levels of the stress hormone cortisol by 50 percent. Tip: Picture the person or thing that’s stressing you out in each bubble, then visualize it floating away—along with your anxiety.QUICK POLLHow do you cool down a spicy mouth?Yikes! Your sister went overboard with the jalapeños in her homemade salsa and your mouth is on fire! Try these FIRST readers’ tips to soothe the burn:58% ♥ this idea!Eat a spoonful or two of plain yogurt that contains some fat, says Donna Elmer. The yogurt’s fats dissipate the capsaicin that causes the…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Your most flattering jeans ever!Finding jeans that fit perfectly and flatter your figure is like solving a jigsaw puzzle: They slim the legs but gape at the waist, or they cinch the middle but are too snug on the thighs. So we asked 6 FIRST readers to share their denim dilemmas and enlisted top stylists to reveal their secrets to finding jeans that feel good and look great. Read on for the denim know-how that will make you shine!LOWER-BELLY PUDGE?Try “tummy” panelsSlipping into roomy, lived-in jeans can seem like the way to hide a belly, but the looser fabric lacks the strength to hold in any saggy flab. The fix: Opt for jeans with built-in shaping panels, advises stylist-to-the-stars Danielle Tavia. A hidden inner waistband “lifts” the lower belly up while spandex panels act…7 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018quick bitsSurprise! Pasta can help speed slimmingThat’s the word from researchers at St. Michael’s Hospital in Toronto. In a review of data from 2,500 adults, they found that subjects who enjoyed a 1/2 cup serving of pasta three times a week as part of a healthy diet actually lost 11/2 pounds more than those who favored other carbs. Lead study author John Sievenpiper, M.D., explains that pasta’s low-glycemic index ensures its carbs are slowly absorbed into the bloodstream, which promotes satiety and prevents the insulin surges that pack on fat.The menu mattersDining out at restaurants, coffee shops and cafeterias that include calorie counts on the menu can help you reduce your overall food intake effortlessly, report researchers at the University of Cambridge in Massachusetts. They found that when clear nutrition labels…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Release trapped fatCall to mind a major freeway: When traffic is running smoothly, the high-speed road allows you to zip across town in minutes. But if you hit an unexpected lane closure due to an accident or construction project, you get stuck in a merge bottleneck that forces you to creep along at a snail’s pace, growing more frustrated (and later to your destination) with each passing minute.Now imagine your blood vessels as those roads and that a smooth flow of traffic holds the key to fat burn. In the body, blood vessels form a network that transport oxygen, nutrients and fatty acids to cellular engines called mitochondria, which use these raw materials to fuel energy production. To control the flow of nutrients in a way that optimizes fat burning and metabolism,…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018“I lost half my size!”All eyes were on Debbie Baker as she walked down the aisle at her daughter’s wedding. But her joy was overshadowed by embarrassment as she imagined the crowd thinking about her weight, not her dress. This isn’t how I wanted this day to go, she thought. I feel plain awful.“Everyone knew me as the heavy kindergarten teacher,” reveals Debbie, who lived in the same community for 30 years. But after moving to Florida, she no longer felt bound by that old identity. That’s when Debbie found the bravery to walk into a TOPS.org support group. With their help, she focused on eating more produce that is naturally high in nitric oxide such as leafy greens, carrots and Florida grapefruit. “Something finally just clicked,” says Debbie, who lost 8 pounds in…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018“I feel so much younger!”“Coffee…I just need coffee,” Kathleen muttered to herself after turning off her alarm. “I’d been in bed all night yet I still felt horribly exhausted, and my jaw ached. As I staggered down the hall to the kitchen, I kept crashing into the wall, feeling like I was one step away from collapsing into a coma. How can I feel this bad every single day?Totally depleted“Back then, I operated in ‘survival mode,’ always out of breath, in pain and so tired—yet I didn’t sleep well. In the middle of the night, I’d just tune the radio to Coast to Coast-AM and listen until I fell back asleep.“I felt drained all day, but threw myself into my work at a school, where responsibilities kept piling on my shoulders: teaching classes, coaching…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Josie’s best stress solutionsJosie Bissett has a way of looking on the bright side. “I’ve always been someone who sees my cup as half full,” she says of the perspective that helped her walk away from a devastating house fire feeling more fortunate than ever. “In a way it just solidified a belief that I already had that every day is so special,” she muses. “It’s just the fragility of life, so we have to treat every moment we have as this moment of right now and really be in the moment.” And to keep up that positive outlook as she navigates the busyness, Josie relies on a few strategies.Promotes joy A pie philosophy“When I’m not feeling right, I’ll refer back to Feel the Fear…and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers, Ph.D.,” says…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Discover peace beyond pressureHave you ever eaten an ice-cream cone on a hot day that was so creamy and delicious that you became totally lost in the moment? Silky. Sweet. Cool. Those sensations filled your entire awareness and overtook any and all specific thoughts. That ice cream brought you to a state of being that psychologists call mindfulness. For a few seconds, at least. Then, if you’re like most of us, thoughts began to rush in. This is going to make me gain weight! I just blew my diet! I can’t ever stick to anything! And just like that, all your here-and-now joy is gone.Turns out, our brains are hardwired to trip us up in this way. “Our perceptions are filtered through a layer of thought called the judging mind, which constantly sorts…9 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Feel treated, not cheated!How we made it healthierArugula revs energy. This green adds peppery punch to our beet salad, along with a dose of vitamin K, a nutrient that boosts the production of cells’ main source of energizing fuel by 80 percent.Balsamic Pork Chops with Roasted PeachesACTIVE TIME: 20 min. TOTAL TIME: 1 ½ hrs. SERVES: 8DAIRY-FREEGLUTEN-FREESavory-sweet peaches upgrade these chops with extra flavor and a dose of slimming phytonutrients2 Tbs. chopped fresh thyme ½ cup, plus 2 Tbs. olive oil, divided 3 Tbs. balsamic vinegar 2 Tbs. honey 1 Tbs. Dijon mustard 8 bone-in pork chops (about 4 lbs.)6 peaches, sliced1 In small bowl, whisk thyme, ½ cup oil, balsamic, honey and mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Place pork chops in large container or plastic zip-top bag; pour half the balsamic…5 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018FIRST’S TOP 10 prep-ahead saladsHUNGER DAMPENEREnjoying a salad with avocado can keep you full for up to four hours. Credit goes to the creamy fruit’s oleic acid, which triggers the release of a compound that sends satiety signals to the brain.Speedy Southwest: In each of 4 containers, mix 2 cups baby spinach; 1 sliced red bell pepper, 1 /4 cup chickpeas and 1 /4 cup grilled corn. Chill up to 4 days. Toss with the juice of 1 lime, 2 Tbs. olive oil and half an avocado, diced, just before eating.DETOXIFIERCauliflower lends this salad satisfying crunch and a dose of a compound (sulforaphane) that turns on detox pathways in the liver to quickly eliminate fat-trapping toxins.Roasted Cauliflower: Toss 4 cups cauliflower florets with olive oil, salt and pepper; roast at 400°F for 45 min.…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018smart FOOD solutionsPRO SECRETJamie’s recipe for ice cream cake with 80% less sugarFor a showstopping frozen treat without the sugar overload, chef Jamie Oliver whips up a layered “cake” with yogurt and fresh fruit. “There’s nothing artificial here—it’s the fruit that brings the color,” he says. To do: In processor, puree 1/ 2 cup of yogurt and 2 bananas; pour into a loaf pan and freeze 15 minutes. Spread on 2 Tbs. of raspberry jam. In processor, puree 1/ 2 cup of yogurt and 1 pound of hulled strawberries. Freeze 1 hour or until set; place on top of jam and top with fresh berries.smart swap!✓Calories cut: 226✓Carb grams cut: 30✓ Sugar grams cut: 33Numbers reflect 1 slice of yogurt cake instead of ice cream cakeKeep coleslaw extra crispIt never fails: You…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Spot fake online reviewsReview the reviewer“Amazon is the king of review sites, but it’s also the most manipulated,” says online-shopping expert Jeffrey Contray of DealNews. And while it’s against Amazon’s policy for reviewers to be compensated, fraud remains a huge problem. There are even underground “review mills” that hire people to crank out opinion spam to artificially inflate a brand’s popularity. Before trusting a rating, scan the reviewer’s history: Lots of five-star raves or reviews for only one brand may suggest a bias.Also smart: “Filter Amazon reviews by ‘Verified purchase only’ to weed out suspect reviews,” says Contray. Those orange tags mean reviewers really bought the items in question.Look for these wordsWord choice can offer clues into a reviewer’s reliability. Experts at Cornell University created a program that identified deceptive online hotel reviews…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Slash your cell phone bill!Whether you’ve constantly got your phone in hand or only use it for calls, finding a plan that suits your needs can be a boon for your wallet. A recent survey of 90,000 cell phone users found that 50 percent of people who switched providers cut their bill by up to $40 a month. More good news: These days, you can make a move and still keep your phone number.With so many options out there, though, it can be dizzying to figure out which one will work best for you. In fact, there might even be better plans within the network you’re already using. “Cell phone companies aren’t going to alert you to better prices, so you need to investigate,” says Logan Abbott, president of Wirefly.com, a comparison site for…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 20184 stories that will warm your heartUnexpected graceJust the right spot“‘Caleb, I told you a hundred times not to park your car on the grass!’ I scolded my 30-year-old son as I pulled weeds from the flower bed in my front yard. ‘I was leaving room in case you need to back your car out,’ he answered. ‘I’ll move it to the street after I grab a drink.’ My anger melted as he gave me a big hug. ‘Why are you so stubborn?’ I asked him, playfully swatting his shoulder.“As he started to walk into the house, a strong gust of wind kicked up and I heard a loud crack. Suddenly, our old tree was falling straight toward where I was crouched in the yard. I threw my hands over my head and waited for the…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018smart PET solutionsSOS for a skunk sprayYou bathed Peanut right after he had a run-in with a skunk, but he still stinks! It could be that your pal has been partially sprayed in the face. Skunk spray looks like tiny yellow strings, so if you see any remnants on your pooch’s face, use a bottle of saline solution to flush the gunk from his eyes and off his face. The odor will be gone in no time!Banish pet odors from the carAfter toting your pup around to the park, beach or dog run on a steamy day, the scent of eau de wet dog fills your car. To eliminate the odor without using chemical-laden air fresheners, try this: Place 5 to 10 drops of vanilla extract on a wooden clothespin and clip…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 20187 books we’re loving nowRomancePractice Makes Perfect by Julie James“A bubble bath, a glass of wine, a light read…these are a few of my favorite things after a busy day,” shares Melissa D’Agnese, FIRST senior editor. “And this fun novel fit in the lineup perfectly.” Payton Kendall and J.D. Jameson have worked together in the same Chicago law firm for eight years. They appear amicable among colleagues because they both have the same goal in mind: to make partner at the firm. But in an odd turn of events, sparks begin to fly on a work trip—and no one is more surprised than Payton and J.D. So when they’re told there’s only one partner position, feelings must be ignored as they continue their race to the top. “This duo’s rivalry and romance had me…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018A loving blessing from aboveMy mom died when I was in my 20s. The loss was devastating. Although time has softened the pain, it hasn’t stopped me from wanting to pick up the phone and share special moments with her. I’ve thought about how nice it would be to talk with her so many times over the years, like when I fell in love, had my first child, and bought my first house. I expect I’ll never stop feeling that way.I really wanted to talk to her when I met my husband. James and I dated on and off for a few years before getting married. During that period, I thought so many times how nice it would have been to call my mom, get her wisdom and know what she thought of him.…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018MAXI DRESSES 3 style secretsBell sleeveAvoid excess flounceErases 10 poundsPleated bell sleeves that pouf at the hips widen the middle—especially when worn with a full skirt. But bell sleeves with just a slight flare jazz up a dress without adding unflattering bulk. And a fitted dress creates a column for bonus slimming.PeasantOpt for strategic trimThickens the bodyA shapeless dress with a dizzying mix of designs causes the eye to scan all over, erasing feminine curves. And a low, loose V-neck makes the bust look droopy.Highlights an hourglassSubtle neckline trim on a fitted top adds curve-carving structure, and an embroidered “belt” cinches the waist. Bonus: Add-ons like long tassels optically stretch and slim the body.WrapCinch it at the waistLooks long and leanA drop-waist dress with ruching magnifies hips while layers of uneven floor-grazing hems “shorten”…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Easy keys to 10 years youngerSaggy jowls?Facial exercises can lift those droopy pouches at the bottom of cheeks, says Dr. Mraz Robinson. “Increasing facial muscle mass under saggy skin fills out the area, diminishing laxity for a younger appearance.” In fact, women in one study who exercised their depressor anguli oris muscles (on either side of the chin) daily for five months were perceived by strangers to be three years younger than their actual age.To do: Lift your chin slightly and pull your mouth into a grimace, contracting your lower jaw so your neck tightens. Hold and say “hee” three times through clenched teeth; release. Repeat 10 times daily for results in one month.Neck jiggles?Combat hanging, jiggly skin with a cream that’s infused with polymers and niacin (like StriVectin Powerlift Instant Tightening Mask, StriVectin.com). “Like…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018worries solvedQ I’ve read that adding coconut oil to my coffee can help me slim, but it’s been causing GI issues. What gives?A You’re smart to up your coconut oil intake. Studies show the healthy fat can increase metabolism enough to help dieters lose five times more weight. Plus, coconut oil contains a powerful antibacterial and anti-fungal compound (lauric acid) that quickly eradicates craving-stimulating candida yeast in the GI tract. As you have experienced, though, that yeast-killing perk can come with a temporary downside: As the microbes die off, they release more than 79 toxic compounds that can trigger a range of symptoms from bloat and indigestion to achiness, fatigue and headaches.Fortunately, sipping two cups of dandelion root tea (like Alvita Organic Dandelion Root Tea, $7 for 24 tea bags, Vitacost.com)…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Sample meals to jump-start slimmingbreakfastBeet smoothie In a blender, puree 1 peeled beet, 1 peeled carrot,1/2 cup of grapes, 1 peeled orange, a 1/2" piece of fresh ginger and 1/2 cup of green tea until smooth.lunchFish tacos Fill two flour tortillas with 4 oz. of seared white fish and 3/4 cup of shredded red cabbage tossed with 1 Tbs. sour cream, 1/2 Tbs. lime juice and 2 Tbs. chopped cilantro.dinnerSteak dinner Serve 4 oz. of steak atop3/4 cup of brown rice tossed with roasted carrots, broccoli and garlic. Drizzle with olive oil. Garnish with toasted almond slivers.dessertChocolate pudding In a blender, puree half an avocado, 1/2 cup of coconut milk, 1 Tbs. of unsweetened cocoa powder and 1 Tbs. of chia seeds. Refrigerate for 2 hours or until set.…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 20186 ways to age in reverseBUILDS MUSCLE: Time in the sunWomen over 40 risk losing 5 pounds of muscle and 10 percent of strength per decade. Fortunately, spending 20 minutes a day outside (without sunscreen) can cut your risk in half, suggests research in the journal Clinical Endocrinology. That’s because skin exposed to UV light produces vitamin D3 , which kick-starts the formation of healthy muscle tissue.KEEPS BONES STRONG: A daily tippleSipping 6 oz. of red or white wine daily can put the brakes on bone thinning in 24 hours, plus slash the risk of osteoarthritis by 45 percent, say researchers at Oregon State University in Corvallis. Credit wine’s phenolic compounds—powerful antioxidants that mimic bone- and cartilage-strengthening estrogen when they latch on to tissues.PRESERVES MEMORY: A bedtime tweakSleeping 8 hours nightly—ideally, on your side—improves focus…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018This treat calms stress, improves sleepEight in 10 women over 40 are deficient in magnesium—and research has linked low levels of the mineral to increased stress and involuntary muscle movements that disrupt sleep, including teeth grinding, says periodontist Sandra Moldovan, D.D.S., author of Heal Up! She suggests supplementing with 500 mg of magnesium daily and eating a magnesium-rich bedtime snack, like a handful of chocolate-covered almonds (about 117 mg of magnesium). The proven payoff: Studies have shown that increasing magnesium intake leads to a threefold improvement in time spent sleeping and a 39 percent reduction in anxiety levels. And for nearly 100 percent of people who suffer from bruxism, magnesium has been shown to reduce nighttime grinding and deliver relief from symptoms like jaw pain.…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018“Strength training saved my life!”One more bite and that’s it, Mary Roberts told herself as she eyed the leftover cake sitting on the kitchen counter after her husband’s birthday party. But as that moist, decadent bite melted in her mouth, she decided to have just one more…and before she could stop herself, the cake was gone. Then the guilt set in. “I was already overweight, and I had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes,” Mary recalls. “I was taking medication to control my blood sugar and high blood pressure. The next morning when I took my blood sugar, it was over 200, and I was scared. It had been high before, but that day, something changed within me.”Sick and tired of feeling bad“That was four years ago, when my health problems held me back…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018The perspective that helps Josie’s marriage flourishA surprising happy ending came out of the 2015 fire that destroyed Josie’s home: She fell in love with Thomas Doig, a local businessman living in the condo complex she moved into during construction. “The silver lining is that I met Tom,” she says. As the relationship blossomed, the pair have had to find ways to stay connected through her busy shooting schedules for movies like this summer’s Wedding March 4 on the Hallmark Channel. “It’s been a little bit of an adjustment for Tom because he doesn’t know this business,” she notes. “But when the movie’s over, we say, ‘Okay, we’re going to go away for the weekend and make up for lost time.’”One perspective that’s helped the couple, who married on July 4, 2017, grow closer: “We read…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Make way for rave reviewsHow we made it healthierQuinoa boost satiety. Stuffing our tomatoes with this grain instead of rice doubles the amount of filling protein and fiber in each serving, plus adds a dose of thyroid-nourishing manganese to speed metabolism.Garlic-Herb Butter Roasted ChickenACTIVE TIME: 10 min. TOTAL TIME: 2 hrs. SERVES: 8GLUTEN-FREEOur easy compound butter infuses this roast with rich, savory flavor and moisture as it cooks for a juicy and tender start to a winning family meal1 stick butter, at room temp. 2 Tbs. honey 1 head, plus 2 cloves minced garlic, divided ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped 1 bunch, plus 2 Tbs. minced fresh thyme 1 (5 lb.) roaster chicken1 Heat oven to 425°F. In bowl, mix butter, honey, minced garlic, basil, minced thyme and salt and pepper to taste.…4 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018How meal prep speeds slimmingWe’ve always relied on a freezer stash of heat-and-eat casseroles to help us get a healthy dinner on the table on busy nights. But a growing chorus of home cooks are taking meal prep a step further by preparing and portioning out meals for the whole week—and seeing incredible slimming results. “Meal prep allows us to cook when we have time so we don’t have to worry about it when we don’t,” explains women’s health expert Tami Prince, M.D. “It makes sticking to a healthy diet possible, and even easy.” Here, how the strategy can fast-track your slimdown.IMPROVES DIET QUALITYWomen who plan and prepare meals ahead of time are twice as likely to eat five servings of fruit and vegetables per day—and they eat fast food 50 percent less often…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018“S’more, please” guaranteed!Stacked Brownie S’mores PieACTIVE TIME: 30 min. TOTAL TIME: 1 1/2 hrs. SERVES: 161 (18 oz.) box brownie mix3 cups flour2 tsp. baking powder11/2 cups brown sugar1 Tbs. vanilla extract3/4 cup vegetable oil1 cup milk6 eggs, separated3/4 cup chocolate chips1 tsp. cream of tartar11/4 cups powdered sugar1/3 cup walnuts, toasted1/3 cup chocolate syrup1 Heat oven to 350°F. Prepare brownie mix as package directs. Bake 25 min. or until done. Let cool. Cut into 2" squares.2 In bowl, mix flour, baking powder and a pinch of salt. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, oil, milk and egg yolks. Using electric mixer on medium speed, beat 2 min. or until combined. Add chocolate chips; mix until just incorporated. Divide batter between two greased and lined 9" cake pans. Bake 20 min. Let cool.…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018smart HOME solutionsKeep extension cords dry outsideLast time you showed your family a movie in your yard, the projector kept rebooting since the extension cord connection was lying on damp grass. To sidestep this nuisance next time, cut 1-inch–thick notches in opposite sides of a food-storage container, then slide the attached plugs into the container and snap on the lid. The container will keep the plugs from sitting on the damp lawn. (Don’t set the cord protector in pooled water or near an open flame.)QUICK POLLHow do you keep houseplants healthy when you travel?Headed out of town? Ensure your plants thrive with these reader tips65% ♥ this idea!Fill a glass bottle with water and invert it into the soil, says Lee Rose. The soil pulls moisture from the bottle.35% ♥ this idea!Fill…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Online shopping tricks to score the best deal!Buy under the radarSome stores advertise higher prices to people in rural areas, where competition is low, according to one study. To hide your location, click “File” in your web browser and select “new private/incognito window.”Check your browserSurvey data shows that the popular browsers Chrome and Firefox tend to display better prices than Safari and Explorer.Shop from the right deviceSome retailers inflate costs based on certain hardware or software assumptions. For example, Mac users are likely to be charged higher prices than PC users, and people who shop on their phones score discounts. Bottom line: Fill your cart from a phone or a PC to save.…1 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Back-to-school cures MDs swear byFor SLEEPLESSNESSA little bit of tech“My oldest is not the greatest sleeper, especially when he gets worried before the start of the school year,” says mother-of-two Jennifer Haythe, M.D., codirector of the Women’s Center for Cardiovascular Health at Columbia University Medical Center in New York City. “But I’ve found that technology can help.” While she doesn’t allow most devices or TV for an hour or more before bed (the blue light they emit can disrupt sleep), Dr. Haythe makes the exception for sleep-meditation apps, like Headspace for Kids (free for iOS and Android). “My son finds the voices soothing,” she says. “By focusing on the narrator’s words, his thoughts and anxieties melt away, allowing sleep to come. He’ll fall asleep within 10 minutes. I think I might have fallen asleep…2 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018private healthQ While undressing, I noticed a sour smell wafting from my breasts. I’ve taken care to wash the area, but the odor is still there. What’s up?A Hot, humid weather can trigger sweat accumulation under the breasts, creating warm, moist conditions where fungi can thrive, leading to a vinegar-like odor.To eliminate the odor, try aiming a blow-dryer set on cool under your breasts after showering to remove residual moisture. Then use a cotton ball to apply a few drops of grapefruit seed extract (drugstores) to the underside of your breasts twice a day. The extract’s flavonoids have a study-backed ability to thwart bacteria and fungi, yet it’s gentle on delicate skin. Also smart: Shake moisture-absorbing cornstarch into your bra cups before dressing or changing after workouts.If these strategies don’t nix…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018Unlock the power of your dreams“A UFO delivers gifts”DREAM: “I dreamed that a UFO was landing, and it shot out beautiful sparks of light that turned into lamps. Other people were afraid, but I knew the lamps were treasures.” —Orleana Mendez, TampaWHAT IT’S TELLING YOU: “Dreams of UFOs symbolize ‘unidentified’ aspects of ourselves that can bring enlightenment, wisdom and beauty into our lives. I’m intrigued by the fact that everyone else ran away, but you felt the need to run toward the UFO to receive its gifts to you—gifts of illumination, knowledge and awakening. I believe this dream is encouraging you to approach challenges with the spirit of curiosity and an open mind because even things that seem scary can add amazing sparks of joy to your life.”“I forget about my baby!”DREAM: “In reality, I’m…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 2018horoscopevirgo(Aug. 23–Sept. 22)Consider starting a new workout plan (like pool walking) while the confident sun is in your sign from August 23 to September 22. You have the can-do energy now to slim without struggle! And around August 26, a heart-to-heart with your mate eases your stress.libra(Sept. 23–Oct. 22)Try to be flexible with your work schedule around August 19—going with the flow makes you more productive and impresses higher-ups. And around August 26, when the full moon is in your sixth house of wellness, you have the drive to make major gains toward a health goal.scorpio(Oct. 23–Nov. 21)Dive into a team project between August 23 and September 22—with the confident sun in your eleventh house of networking, you’ll have the charisma and positive energy it takes to help everyone succeed.…3 min
First for Women|September 3, 20185 stories that will make you smilepreciousThree of a kindFrankfurt, Germany—It’s a roaring good time at Frankfurt Zoo with everyone cheering the arrival of these lion cub triplets. Not only are they the first lions to be born at the zoo in 15 years, some might say these siblings are also the cutest!adorableOne funny little foalSurrey, UK—Welcome to the world, Nellie! She may be small, but staffers at Bocketts Farm say this Shetland pony already has a big personality. The tiny treasure, who will grow to be no more than 42 inches tall, loves to make visitors laugh by galloping around her enclosure. And while she can be a bit cheeky at times, the foal has quickly proven herself to be great with kids, taking them on relaxing rides around the farm.sillyA birthday celebrationSydney, Australia—The crew…2 min
