Drug could suppress intractable epilepsy

Scientists have found a way to rapidly suppress epilepsy in mouse models by manipulating a known genetic pathway using a cancer drug currently in human clinical trials for the treatment of brain and breast cancer.

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Complete surgical excision is the most effective treatment for breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma

The optimal treatment approach for most women with breast implant-associated anaplastic large-cell lymphoma (BI-ALCL) is complete surgical excision of the implant and surrounding capsule, according to an international study.

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Autoimmune epilepsy outcomes depend heavily on antibody type

Immune dysfunction is increasingly recognized as a cause of drug-resistant epilepsy but how or why the immune system attacks nerve cells -- and the consequences on seizure control -- are not well understood. Two studies explore how different types of autoimmune response elicit markedly different responses in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

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Homemade Face Wash

So, becoming a stay at home mom has definitely made me become a little more crafty, as well as a money saver. Some things I have learned to create instead of buying is my Laundry soap, cleaner, and much more. Today I thought I would give a run down on a new face wash I have been trying.

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See How Much You Need to Run Each Week to Really Improve Your Health

Running is great for your health, helping you live longer and boosting memory. But how long do you have to pound the pavement for those long-term benefits? This video from Business Insider outlines recent research that found all you need to do is run six miles at about a 10-minute-per-mile pace over the course of a week. (We can all carve out at least an hour in our week for some jogging, right?) Running more didn’t improve heart health or life span.



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Health Equals Wealth

How you prioritize your health is the secret to long lasting wellness and overall quality of life. Do not sacrifice comfort for price when you buy workout gear such as shoes and proper breathable workout clothing.

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Starbucks Steps up Its Breakfast Game With Bagel Balls

Bagel Balls Just when the pumpkin spice latte goes out of season, Starbucks introduces a new treat that’ll keep us coming back for more. This time the coffee chain is rolling out bite-size bagel balls stuffed with cream cheese. (Think of it like a denser, doughier munchkin.) The bagel balls, made by Bantam Bagels, clock in at 100 calories and come in three flavors: classic with plain cream cheese, everything with veggie cream cheese, and French toast with buttered maple syrup cream cheese (say what?!). Starbucks is debuting the balls at more than 500 stores in New York, Philadelphia, and Indianapolis.



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Neoadjuvant use of pertuzumab in HER2-positive breast cancer: Hint of lesser benefit

In contrast to the use in advanced unresectable breast cancer, no positive effects have been proven for the use of neoadjuvant use of pertuzumab in HER2-positive breast cancer, report reviewers. However, more patients discontinue treatment, particularly due to cardiac disorders.

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Definition of person-centered care for older adults clarified by experts

'Person-centered care' means that people's values and preferences are obtained and, once expressed, guide all aspects of health care and support realistic health and life goals, according to an interprofessional panel of eldercare experts.

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Why Health Equals Wealth

When it comes to health and wellness and improving your quality of life, it isn't always the cheapest to do so. The costs of eating properly, gym memberships, personal training, high quality workout apparel, and high quality supplements can take up room in your purse or wallet. While this may be dismal for excuses not to live a healthy lifestyle, opting out for cheaper convenience may opt more on your own health in the long run.

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National cardiac arrest study of new breathing tube

Investigators want to determine whether a newer, easier-to-use breathing tube will produce better results than existing endotracheal tubes in cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest.

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Five Men's Fragrances You've Never Heard of (But Should Know About)

There are many fragrances available for men, but why smell like everyone else? Here are my top five fragrances for men that you've likely never heard of, but any wife or girlfriend would be happy to know about.

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People with dementia exposed to low quality of life through lack of activity

People with dementia living in long-term care often show low levels of activity participation, which negatively impacts their quality of life, say researchers.

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Price of cancer drugs varies by up to 388% between European countries, Australia, and New Zealand

The price of new cancer drugs varies widely (from 28% to 388%) between high-income countries in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, new research has found. The UK and Mediterranean countries such as Greece, Spain, and Portugal pay the lowest average unit manufacturer prices for a group of 31 originator cancer drugs (new drugs under patent), whereas Sweden, Switzerland, and Germany pay the highest prices, say authors of a new report.

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Newborns in intensive care exposed to thirdhand smoke residue

Despite hospitals operating a smoke free policy, newborns in intensive care may still be exposed to thirdhand smoke residue from their smoker parents, suggests a small study.

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Global toll of injuries down by almost a third since 1990

The global toll taken by injuries on daily life has fallen by almost a third in the past quarter of a century, reveals research, suggesting that the world is becoming a safer place to live in.

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The Features To Look For When Investing In An Electronic Medical Record System

Keeping accurate and up-to-date medical records for a large number of patients can be the bane of any medical practitioner's life. Not only are these professionals tasked with attending to the needs of many different patients each and every day, but the additional administrative duties that need to be fulfilled are often time-consuming and arduous.

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How To Recognise A Reliable EMR Company?

Having an Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system in place is becoming an essential component of the modern medical practice, with benefits of this type of system ranging from improved patient care to better doctor-patient relationships and greater productivity. As a result, there are many different systems on the market today, each one offering a number of specific benefits to their professional clients.

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Some Healthy And Effective Dieting Tips To Keep In Mind

To make sure that you are getting the most out of your dieting endeavors and to ensure that it is helping you lose weight, there are some tips you can follow. You can read these tips below.

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5 Tips You Should Know About Weight Loss

When thinking about losing weight, many people think that it is a simple process they can just jump right into and start seeing results. However, it takes hard work and plenty of discipline to even start seeing the results. Weight loss is generally very challenging and you need to be prepared beforehand so you go into it with an open mind, knowing what to expect and being ready to try again and again until you achieve your desired weight loss goals. Here are a few things that you should know about losing weight so you can make the necessary changes in mindset and get prepared for the journey ahead of you and come out a success in the end.

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Managing My Depression Is a Constant Struggle. Here's What's Helped

A 20-Minute Beginner Dance Workout to Make You Break a Sweat

There's a lot up for debate in the health and fitness world, but there's one truth we can all agree on: The best kind of workout is the kind that doesn't feel like work. That's why we're huge fans of breaking it down to break a sweat. Not only is dancing a total blast, but research shows it can boost your mood, improve body image, and alleviate anxiety.

Ready to get down? Try this beginner-friendly hip-hop cardio workout. Led by Grokker trainer Jamie McFaden, this routine will get your heart pumping, strengthen your entire body, and even bust a bad mood in just 20 minutes. And take it from us—you need zero coordination to reap the benefits. Just turn up the volume and press play!

Interested in more short and effective at-home workouts? We have thousands waiting for you on Grokker, the one-stop shop online resource for wellness. Join Grokker today and get 14 days of FREE unlimited at-home workout classes.



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Greatist Workout of the Day: Friday, December 4th

This series of GWODs was designed exclusively for Greatist by Bodeefit. For more information about the exercises in this workout, or to see video demos of each movement, follow the links below the graphic. Be sure to note the results of your workout so you can track your progress as you go.

Before you tackle this workout, try this quick and effective full-body warm-up. It's just five simple moves but hits every major muscle group and gets your heart pumping.

5 Spot

Complete 5 rounds of the following as fast as safely possible.

1-minute Plank Hold
20 Step-Ups (10 per leg, alternating)
25 Sit-Ups

Want to kick up the intensity? Hold light kettlebells or dumbbells in both hands on the step-ups. And don't forget to check back tomorrow for a totally new (but equally awesome) GWOD!



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Micro-map of hippocampus lends big hand to brain research

A new detailed map of the hippocampal region of the brain is helping the scientific community accelerate research and develop better treatments for patients suffering from epilepsy and other neurological and psychiatric disorders.

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Hearts and minds: Study uncovers genetic links

Babies born with heart problems have a number of genetic changes in common, even when there is no family history of heart disease, scientists have found.

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Your Lighting And Your Health: Are Your Lights Preventing Sleep?

The increasingly intense and prolonged exposure to artificial light after sunset is closely associated with sleep deprivation, a condition that predisposes to health problems such as obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease... And the spread of the LEDs can worsen the situation.

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Combining Pilates With Yoga Can Do Wonders

Both yoga and pilates require a great deal of focus and an incorporation of breathing. The focus of the breathing is more intense with yoga than with pilates but both use it. Yoga in some ways is considered to be a meditated form of exercise while pilates is a full body workout. When putting the two together you can find yourself aligning your body in a way that feels more natural and accurate to your overall body and health. Many times in both forms of exercise the term centering is used a great deal to describe some of the movements and the concentration needed to perform them.

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6 Life Hacks To Live A Healthier Life

Living a healthier lifestyle does not have to be difficult. All you need to do is follow these six life hacks. They will not only help you to enjoy a healthier lifestyle but to do it with ease.

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This Video Explains Why People Aren't Hooking up as Much as You Think

Dating apps like Tinder and Bumble have made it easier than ever to find a potential partner. They also make it abundantly clear that there are more fish in the sea, which has led many to decry to end of dating as we know it and the rise of big, bad hookup culture. Instead of settling down, we’re getting frisky with no-strings-attached flings. But our friends at Science of Us point out that research tells another story. The median age of marriage has gone up in the last 30 years—meaning most of us have more sexual partners—but the General Social Survey found that 20-somethings today aren't any more promiscuous than previous generations. (Maybe it’s because we spend all of our time swiping rather than meeting up IRL.)



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Affordable Care Act has reduced racial/ethnic health disparities, study shows

The Affordable Care Act has significantly improved insurance coverage and use of health care for African Americans and Latinos, according to a new study.

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County Health Department - A Great Resource for Physician Groups and Hospitals

Many hospital groups and physician provider groups do not realize how beneficial their county health department can be to their providing of quality health services. This article focuses on the benefits of working with your local health departments in keeping your patients healthy through excellent prevention approaches.

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The Refractory Period: the Real Reason Guys Need a Break Between Orgasms

We've all been there: After one inning between the sheets, not everyone’s ready for round two. Women may be primed to go seconds after the first big win, but for men, it’s not so easy. No matter what his brain is saying, his body just won’t comply. What gives?

Guys actually have a built-in recovery period (nature's cockblock, if you will) after sex. It’s called the male refractory period (MRP), and it’s the time after ejaculation—lasting anywhere from a few minutes to a few days—where a guy is unable to get an erection again. While women don’t have an equivalent (allowing for the possibility of multiple orgasms—lucky them), every man experiences some kind of post-ejaculation recovery period.

The Science Behind the Big O

Couple in Bed

After ejaculation, your whole body is on overdrive. And your sympathetic nervous system—which controls the fight-or-flight response—pushes for your body to calm down, explains Charles Walker, M.D., assistant professor of urology and cofounder of the Cardiovascular and Sexual Health Clinic at Yale University. This activates the release of neurotransmitters, which cause the smooth muscle in the penis to contract, driving a guy into a flaccid fix.

What happens next is a domino effect, lowering levels of neurotransmitters, namely dopamine and testosterone. Dopamine, one of your “happiness” hormones, is secreted when you're aroused. But when your system wants you to come off that high, it dampens production of it. In fact, one study found that the more of your dopamine receptors that are blocked, the longer the refractory period lasts.1

At the same time, production of serotonin and prolactin is increased, which also counteracts arousal. Prolactin is the hormone most strongly associated with the refractory period—the lower your prolactin levels, the quicker you can get going again. One study found that for men who report being able to have multiple orgasms, their bodies release no prolactin post-climax.2 (Note: Ejaculation and orgasm aren't the same thing—they're two separate processes. If a man can refrain from ejaculating during orgasm, he may be able to have multiple orgasms. It's a rare phenomenon because it takes practice to be proficient.)

Prolactin also explains why the MRP lasts longer when you orgasm from actual sex versus self-pleasure. The amount of prolactin released after intercourse is 400 percent greater than following masturbation, research says. And while that sounds like a bummer, researchers point out that this means sex is more physiologically satisfying than masturbation.

Another side effect of increased prolactin: the suppression of the production of testosterone, a key player in piquing your interest in sex. Also after the big O, your brain releases a surge of serotonin, which makes guys want to just roll over and sleep after sex. (So that explains it.) One study of post-coitus brain scans revealed that ejaculation causes less activity in the prefrontal cortex and a release of oxytocin and serotonin, shutting off alertness and mental activity and essentially kneecapping any sexual desire.3

So not only are your hormones working to actively make you not aroused, but you also have less of the hormones that are responsible for getting your engines running. But don’t worry—it’s not as hopeless as it sounds.

OK, How Long Will It Last?

It depends on a handful of factors, experts say. The biggest? Age. “Teenage boys can have a refractory period of a few minutes, a 30-year-old man is typically unable to have a second orgasm for half an hour or more, and for many men 50 years and older, one orgasm per day may be all they can achieve,” says Abraham Morgentaler, M.D., associate clinical professor of urology at Harvard Medical School and author of The Truth About Men and Sex: Intimate Stories from the Doctor’s Office.

Other factors that come into play: level of desire, level of sensitivity, how turned on you are, the quality and emotional state of your relationship, whether you’ve been drinking, whether you’re circumcised, what medications you’re on, how comfortable you are in your environment—pretty much everything that would affect your ability to get it up to start with, but even more so because you’re fighting against your body’s natural inclinations to recharge.

Every guy is wired differently too. “A young man may be able to have five or more erections and orgasms in a day with a new partner, whereas another young man in the same circumstances may not have the urge or ability to have more than one,” Morgentaler adds.

Get Back in the Game Faster

Woman in Bed

For most people, this forced break isn’t a huge problem. The biggest issue is if it’s affecting a partner's pleasure after he finishes first. It can also be an inconvenience for younger couples who want to have back-to-back romping sessions. (Note: For some guys, they can still have an erection, but no orgasm, during the MRP, Morgentaler adds.)

How can you minimize the wait time? You can’t really control (or predict) it. But there's one thing both docs agree helps speed up your time between innings: increasing arousal. “In especially exciting circumstances, all bets are off, and men may surprise themselves with how quickly their erection returns and their ability to have orgasms in relatively rapid succession,” Morgentaler says. (Some ideas to spice things up: Rent a hotel room instead of having sex at home, have morning sex instead of at night, or buy some lingerie—even small efforts to add novelty may be enough for excitement overpower your systems, Morgentaler adds.)

And remember: “You don’t need an erection to give and receive pleasure,” says Jessica O’Reilly, Ph.D., a sexologist and Greatist expert. ”You’ve got ten good fingers, a tongue, and hopefully some toys that can help [your partner] reach climax during the MRP.”

The Takeaway

For the most part, the refractory period is a natural phenomenon and is your body’s way of healing and protecting your crown jewels. If you’re young and healthy but spending hours on the sidelines, ask your doc. It could be a side effect of medications (antidepressants in particular mess with your dopamine and serotonin levels), Walker says. And there are other prescriptions that can help your hard-on bounce back faster, like Viagra, although not necessarily your ability to orgasm again.

Works Cited

  1. Brain monoaminergic control of male reproductive behavior. II. Dopamine and the post-ejaculatory refractory period. McIntosh TK, Barfield RJ. Behavioural Brain Research, 1984, Oct.;12(3):0166-4328.
  2. Absence of orgasm-induced prolactin secretion in a healthy multi-orgasmic male subject. Haake P, Exton MS, Haverkamp J. International Journal of Impotence Research, 2002, Sep.;14(2):0955-9930.
  3. Functional neuroimaging studies of sexual arousal and orgasm in healthy men and women: a review and meta-analysis. Stoléru S, Fonteille V, Cornélis C. Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews, 2012, Mar.;36(6):1873-7528.


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Study reveals non-invasive warning sign of kidney disease progression

Researchers have identified an accessible, non-invasive way to identify patients at risk for progression of kidney disease. Chronic kidney disease is a condition in which damaged kidneys cannot filter blood as well as healthy kidneys. Currently, it is estimated that over 10 million individuals suffer from chronic kidney disease, with the number of those affected continuing to rise.

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Depression contributes to preventable hospitalizations in Danish study

Individuals with depression are more than twice as likely to have hospitalizations that might be preventable with timely outpatient medical care, a Danish study finds. Preventable hospitalizations included exacerbations of common chronic conditions, such as diabetes and congestive heart failure, and acute illnesses, such as bacterial pneumonia and urinary tract infections. As access and patient costs were not factors in a country with universal health coverage, a solution may be to better integrate mental health services into primary-care settings.

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Lower patient satisfaction in hospitals that employ more nurses trained abroad

Many Western countries including England and the United States have come to rely on nurses trained abroad in times of nurse shortages. Yet little is known about how such practices affect quality of care and patient satisfaction. A novel study has concluded that the employment of nurses trained abroad to substitute for professional nurses educated at home is not without risks to quality of care.

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Patient mood can impact medical procedure results

Feeling high levels of distress, fear and hostility prior to undergoing an angioplasty or other interventional radiology procedure may lead to a poor outcome, according to new research.

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Why Volunteering Is Good for Your Health

Though the holiday season might make you feel stressed or crazy busy, it can also have another far more desirable effect: It may leave you feeling extra generous. That's right—all that gift-giving and caroling can bring on even more good vibes.

"Being generous isn’t a finite resource," says Alex Korb, Ph.D., neuroscientist and author of The Upward Spiral: Using Neuroscience to Reverse the Course of Depression, One Small Change at a Time. "The more generous you are, the more you feel like you want to be even more generous."

And that's where one of the best ways to give comes into play: volunteering. Helping out is a double whammy: You help others and benefit yourself in the process.

The High You Get From Helping

Why Volunteering Is Good for You It’s probably no surprise that lending a hand makes you feel good—after all, even a simple smile can be contagious. "Humans feel best when we feel useful," says Emily Fletcher, founder of Ziva Meditation and gratitude expert. "[With volunteering], the reward is in the act itself—it allows people to feel more present."

And while you've likely read about the benefits of mindfulness, studies suggest volunteering—especially when it's a habit—provides long-lasting benefits.1 It can make you healthier and even add years to your life.1

"Volunteering helps you focus on your positive qualities," Korb says. "Because you're reflecting yourself as being a good person, that can have a self-affirming effect." That type of self-affirmation can domino into other positive changes, Korb says, like eating healthier or smoking less.

And that's not all. Volunteering can be a mental pick-me-up, since it helps reduce anxiety and depression in some people.2 "Empathy and acting generously can increase levels of oxytocin," Korb says. And oxytocin, a neurochemical associated with trust and feelings of closeness, may reduce stress and increase feelings of calm.

The key to reaping the benefits is to expect nothing in return. "Motivations matter," Korb says. "If you read this article, and think, 'I will volunteer so I can feel better,' then you have a selfish motivation, and therefore, you are not going to derive the positive benefits." [Editor's note: We're pretty sure our readers are never selfishly motivated.]

At least one study supports this notion too. Those who volunteered to feel good (or for bragging rights) didn’t experience the same good vibe benefits as those who were selflessly motivated. Other research suggests those who benefit most have a positive view of other people.3

Your Action Plan

Health Benefits of Volunteering

It's easy to volunteer all year—even if you can't make it to a local charity spot. Fletcher suggests thinking about "micro-acts" throughout your day, rather than one big (read: intimidating) goal.

"A good question people can ask themselves is, 'What’s the most pressing need right now? And how do my gifts best serve that need?'" Fletcher says. Maybe it's something small—like volunteering to organize the recycling room in your building. Or maybe staying to help clean up at a party—even though you'd rather just go home. And while it's never too early to start volunteering, studies also suggest benefits only increase with age.4

Bottom line: "Take care that your volunteer work is valuable and meaningful," Fletcher says. Leave obligation behind, and the generous act becomes a win-win for all involved.

Originally published December 2011. Updated December 2015.

Works Cited

  1. Health benefits of volunteering in the Wisconsin longitudinal study. Piliavin JA, Siegl E. Journal of health and social behavior, 2008, Feb.;48(4):0022-1465.
  2. Volunteering and depression: the role of psychological and social resources in different age groups. Musick MA, Wilson J. Social science & medicine (1982), 2003, Mar.;56(2):0277-9536.
  3. Volunteering predicts health among those who value others: two national studies. Poulin MJ. Health psychology : official journal of the Division of Health Psychology, American Psychological Association, 2013, Apr.;33(2):1930-7810.
  4. Differential benefits of volunteering across the life course. Van Willigen M. The journals of gerontology. Series B, Psychological sciences and social sciences, 2000, Oct.;55(5):1079-5014.


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A Detailed View of Alkaline Water - Find the Facts

Want to find more about alkaline water? Read on to know the claims, goodness and beyond.

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Put A Dry Erase Board On Your Refrigerator For Weight Loss Inspiration

If you have a goal to lose weight and get in better shape, then having a busy day may cause a number of issues making it difficult to adhere to healthy habits that are conducive to weight loss. To make this process easier, especially as you work on transitioning from unhealthy habits to healthy ones, it's important to use tools and tips that will help ensure you are successful. With the hustle and bustle jam-packed in each day, it can become extremely easy to get lost in all the activities that are going on. One way to improve your focus on this matter is by putting a small dry erase board right in your kitchen.

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Why Waste Time Watching Television?

Let's face it, you can't lose 50 pounds in two weeks, unless you elect to go for some surgical option. But you can lose 50 pounds in six months by eating right and getting a consistent amount of exercise which is why motivation is crucial to help you stick with this process for a certain amount of time. Therefore when you're ready to introduce a regular form of exercise into your weekly routine, a good place to start is with your leisure time. Leads us to the point - why waste time watching television if you really want to lose weight and get in shape?

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7 Decadent Winter Smoothie Recipes

The Easiest Way to Save Money This Holiday Season

Stuff We Love: Paribus Paribus

Shopping for presents during the holiday season is stressful enough. (Did you forget anyone? What do you get that one person who has everything?) And once you’re finished, you’ll inevitably get loads of emails—because you’re now on every mailing list—with all of the sales you’re missing. It’s not that you think your friends and family aren't worth the sticker price, but the sting of a sudden price drop defines "impotent rage." Who doesn’t want to save a few dollars if they can?

That’s where Paribus comes in. Head over to the company’s site, create an account, and link your inbox to keep track of all of your online shopping. If a store lowers a price on a product you bought, Paribus does all the legwork in filing a price adjustment claim. (Who knew you could do that?) If you make money, they take a 25 percent cut, but you don’t even lift a finger. It’s so easy, the real question is: What are you waiting for?



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Greatist Workout of the Day: Thursday, December 3rd

This series of GWODs was designed exclusively for Greatist by Bodeefit. For more information about the exercises in this workout, or to see video demos of each movement, follow the links below the graphic. Be sure to note the results of your workout so you can track your progress as you go.

Before you tackle this workout, try this quick and effective full-body warm-up. It's just five simple moves but hits every major muscle group and gets your heart pumping.

Greatist Workout of the Day: Monday July 27th Double Up

Complete as many rounds of the following as is safely possible in 15 minutes.

5 Step-Ups (per leg)
10 Handstand Kick-Ups
15 Mountain Climbers (per side)

Want to kick up the intensity? Hold light dumbbells or kettlebells in both hands on the step-ups. And don't forget to check back tomorrow for a totally new (but equally awesome) GWOD!



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Review does not support monthly lab testing for oral isotretinoin use for acne

A review of medical literature does not support monthly laboratory testing for all patients who are using standard doses of the acne medication isotretinoin. Isotretinoin has been associated with several adverse effects, including teratogenicity (causing birth defects) and hyperlipidemia. Prior studies have looked at the usefulness of laboratory monitoring during isotretinoin therapy.

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Survival has improved for women with stage IV breast cancer

A study that included more than 20,000 women with stage IV breast cancer finds that survival has improved and is increasingly of prolonged duration, particularly for some women undergoing initial breast surgery, according to the report.

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Pneumonia 'finger clip' and better diagnostic tests could save thousands of lives

Routinely used in hospitals, pulse oximetry is a non-invasive technology that measures oxygen in the blood, and can help doctors diagnose conditions such as pneumonia which trigger low oxygen levels. The authors argue that if pulse oximetry was made more widely available in the community, it could allow children to be diagnosed quicker and sent to hospital for life-saving oxygen and antibiotics.

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The Most Underrated Quality in the Dating World

Based on a quick glance at magazine covers, it seems like there are certain qualities everyone's looking for in a mate. Nail the perfect combo of good looks, quick wit, and career success, and you've got the perfect formula for attracting a partner, right?

Well, it's partly true: Research shows these aspects (physical appearance, humor, and ambition) are certainly attractive to potential romantic partners.1 But it turns out, a bit of benevolence may be what your dating game’s missing. One large-scale study found that more than 10,000 men and women from around the globe consider kindness—yes, kindness—to be one of the most important qualities in a romantic partner.

Here’s why your reflection, your paycheck, and where you stand in the social pecking order can’t hold a candle to the quality of your character.

Why Kindness Matters Most

Dating Couple Holding Hands Numerous studies corroborate the appeal of kindness. Even small gestures, such as giving a stranger a flower, lending a close friend an ear, or simply doing someone a favor (like carrying their groceries), can enhance our likeability and increase others’ willingness to commit to us.

And it seems to translate to physical attraction. Research shows that genuine trustworthiness, authenticity, and reliability may even boost our sex appeal.2(Wow, you really did keep your word—swoon!) Further studies confirm: Being a kind and honest person can cause people to perceive your face and body type as more attractive.3

By being authentically kind, we can also positively influence others’ moods, foster warm feelings of connectedness with friends and family members, and soothe folks when they’re super stressed.4 And really, who doesn’t want those qualities in a date!?

Even our ancient ancestors agreed. Evolutionary psychologists believe that kindness survived natural selection because it allowed for stronger parent-child bonds and enabled partners and tribe members to stick together—all crucial abilities in our ongoing fight for existence and proliferation.5

Finally, being nice won't only benefit your love life: Recent studies suggest that people who do nice things for others on a regular basis are happier, healthier, and may even have longer lifespans.6 Cue: letting go of every excuse you’ve ever given yourself to be a d*ck.

Sign Me Up!

Couple on Bridge Not sure whether your niceness factor is up to snuff? Carrie Cole, a certified couples' therapist, reminds us that kindness comes in all shapes and sizes. It’s not always a function of what we do for others; it’s equally about how we think and what we say.

1. Adjust your mindset.

Have empathy and compassion for where someone else might be coming from, instead of reacting to what they’re saying or doing solely based on how it affects us, Cole suggests. Meaning: Consider that she may not actually be blowing you off if she says she has plans with her work buddies and can’t grab a drink. Or keep in mind he may really like you, but needs time before he feels comfortable meeting your parents.

Being kind can mean giving people the benefit of the doubt instead of jumping to the conclusion they’re a bad person.

“Being kind can mean giving people the benefit of the doubt instead of jumping to the conclusion they’re a bad person or harbor malicious intent,” Cole explains. So if she’s being a bit standoffish on the first date, try easing back a bit and approaching her more warmly rather than writing her off as frigid. Or refrain from assuming he’s no longer into you just because he sounded distant on the phone. (Though it never hurts to ask someone what’s going on in that moment—or, if they’re too emotional, once they’ve cooled down.)

2. Put it into words.

Expressing gratitude (“I’m really thankful we met,” “I so appreciate you meeting me for dinner tonight”), verbalizing what you admire and respect about a date or S.O. (“I love the way your mind works,” “You have a wonderful sense of style,” “You give incredible hugs”) or offering a mate encouragement (“You’re getting so good at learning how to make me feel amazing in bed”) are spoken versions of kindness, Cole points out.

Find something you truly consider positive about another person—without, of course, falsely praising their every characteristic. And while it may be easier to focus on the superficial (“I love how sexy you look in that outfit”), pointing out a person’s beneath-the-surface perks makes a much more significant impact.

Post-date, it never hurts to text them to make sure they arrive home safely to show that you care about their safety. And don’t hesitate to break that ridiculous 24-hour-no-texting rule with a simple “Hey, thanks for a really nice time tonight.”

FInally—and this also comes in handy during those slightly awkward, quiet moments of a dinner date: Ask questions—about their job, their weekend plans, their new nephew. Flexing your niceness muscle also means demonstrating a genuine curiosity about the other person's life, Cole says.

3. And... action!

Kindness most comes through in what we do and how we treat people. Putting it into action ranges from asking if your date needs to borrow your jacket or umbrella in bad weather to being responsive when you’re together, Cole says. (Read: Put. Down. The. Smartphone.) It's also nice to always acknowledge communication, even when you're busy ("Great to hear from you! I'll write you back once I’m off work.")

If a date ends with a sleepover, consider having a clean toothbrush ready for them at your place. Not sharing a bed quite yet? Offer to pay for a date’s cab ride home, or walk them to whatever mode of transportation they’re taking.

As your relationship evolves, it’s also important to demonstrate to your partner you’ll be there for them when they need it.

As your relationship evolves, it’s also important to demonstrate to your partner you’ll be there for them when they need it, adds Cole. This is what’s called being trustworthy—and it’s a major application of kindness to the real world.

In addition to hugging your partner, offering them a shoulder to cry on, or making time to meet them after work when they’ve had a rough day, trust is built when we stand up for them—say, in the event someone makes an off-colored joke at a party.

And while you may typically think of kindness as making an extra effort, Cole reminds us that the art of being nice can also mean doing less. If you know you err on the side of being overly communicative—or you're getting the hint that your texts, calls, or e-mails may be a bit overwhelming—try giving your partner more space to process your well-intended missives.

The Takeaway

We’re not saying to go ahead and cancel your gym membership, lose your sense of humor, or stop striving for that sought-after promotion. But if you're looking for a lasting, satisfying, and sustainable relationship, the key may be simpler than you ever thought: Just be nice. Not only will your kind nature attract others, but approaching the world with a kinder mindset can positively impact your well-being.

Works Cited

  1. What leads to romantic attraction: similarity, reciprocity, security, or beauty? Evidence from a speed-dating study. Luo S, Zhang G. Journal of personality, 2009, May.;77(4):1467-6494. Effect of humor on interpersonal attraction and mate selection. McGee E, Shevlin M. The Journal of psychology, 2009, Feb.;143(1):0022-3980.
  2. The long-term benefits of human generosity in indirect reciprocity. Wedekind C, Braithwaite VA. Current Biology : CB, 2002, Sep.;12(12):0960-9822. What do people desire in others? A sociofunctional perspective on the importance of different valued characteristics. Cottrell CA, Neuberg SL, Li NP. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 2007, Mar.;92(2):0022-3514.
  3. More than just skin deep? Personality information influences men's ratings of the attractiveness of women's body sizes. Swami V, Furnham A, Chamorro-Premuzic T. The Journal of Social Psychology, 2011, Jan.;150(6):0022-4545.
  4. Familial social support predicts a reduced cortisol response to stress in sexual minority young adults. Burton CL, Bonanno GA, Hatzenbuehler ML. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2014, May.;47():1873-3360.
  5. Sexual selection for moral virtues. Miller GF. The Quarterly Review of Biology, 2008, Jan.;82(2):0033-5770.
  6. Acts of kindness and acts of novelty affect life satisfaction. Buchanan KE, Bardi A. The Journal of Social Psychology, 2010, Jul.;150(3):0022-4545. Motives for volunteering are associated with mortality risk in older adults. Konrath S, Fuhrel-Forbis A, Lou A. Health Psychology, American Psychological Association, 2011, Aug.;31(1):1930-7810. Loving-Kindness Meditation practice associated with longer telomeres in women. Hoge EA, Chen MM, Orr E. Brain, Behavior, and Immunity, 2013, Apr.;32():1090-2139. Giving to Others and the Association Between Stress and Mortality. Poulin M, Brown S, Dillard A. American Journal of Public Health. 2013 September; 103(9): 1649–1655.


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