Cassey Ho's Blog, page 41
October 18, 2022
Roasted Pumpkin Spice Pumpkin Seeds
Roasted pumpkin seeds might be the most underrated seasonal recipe ever!
Here’s the thing that I think turns people off from roasting their own – the process of cleaning off fresh seeds and drying, seasoning and roasting them takes a REALLY long time.
If you’re willing and able–save the seeds when you carve your pumpkin and go for it! If not, you’ll want to pick up a bag of pumpkin seeds from Trader Joe’s like I did. (I’ve got a tremendous aversion to reaching my hands into pumpkin guts, so I absolutely had to use my own hack!).
Whatever method you choose, you’re going to love this crunchy, healthy, pumpkin spice-flavored snack.
Simple & DelishAside from your house smelling like cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg, this version of roasted pumpkin seeds tastes like fall fell into your mouth and threw a holiday party. To make the recipe you only need four ingredients, all available from Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joe’s or Amazon.
We’re kinda obsessed with all our finds from Trader Joe’s. The only thing not there is the monk fruit I used, so feel free to sub in coconut sugar or Allulose, both of which Trader’s carries.
Pumpkin Seed Health BenefitsPumpkin seeds are high in antioxidants and magnesium and contain a whole host of nutrients such as: vitamins K and E, copper, zinc and iron. They lower blood sugar levels and improve heart health, in addition to being high in fiber. If you decide to use the seeds from your Halloween pumpkin, be sure to clean the seeds well and dry the heck out of them for a day or two. And since these are nut-free, your kids can take them to school as a healthy snack…or…you can keep them all for yourself, like I did.
If you’re not a fan of roasted pumpkin seeds with salt, you should definitely give this sweet version a try.
The pumpkin pie spice gives just the right hint of fall flavors, and the monk fruit sweetener allows them to get nice as crunchy, while providing a more dessert-like quality. Adjust the sweetener to your liking. It’s possible to keep them on the savory-sweet side if you use less sweetener.
Let me know in the comments below if you’ll use fresh pumpkin seeds or use the store-bought hack! Oh, and if you’re looking for more yummy pumpkin recipes, you must try these Pumpkin Pancakes and this Healthy Pumpkin Spice Latte!
October 14, 2022
5 Ways to Style a Cropped Hoodie This Fall
ICYMI, cropped hoodies are having a moment. This layering piece gives pro dancer meets comfy, cool girl and is a fall fashion must-have. Cropped sweatshirts have been spotted on Bella Hadid, street style fashionistas and our Blogifam alike (helllooo beloved Shruggie.)
The best part about this cozy staple is its versatility. From throwing it on over your workout gear before a sweat sesh to pairing it with cargos and a tight tank for a baddie aesthetic at brunch, the styling options are endless.
The practical side of the POPFLEX Step Up Shruggie is flattering, offers hood access, and arm coverage for cooler days. But it has a sassy side too, with its ultra-cropped hem that sits just above the bust in the front, and dips slightly in the back.
Here are 5 ways to style your cropped hoodie this fall.1. Crushing a workout
@popflexactive Styling hack rule no.1: grab an ultra cropped hoodie#shruggie #croppedhoodie #fitnessfashion #functionalfashion #comfyfashion #blogilates #popflex ♬ original sound – Ashley Bell
I love a good fitness fit, and when temps drop I’m always ISO an easy top layer to get me from the car into the gym, my pilates class or to rock during my at-home workout warm-up.
A cropped hoodie pairs perfectly with workout basics – leggings, sports bras, joggers and my current obsession, onesies. When it comes to keeping myself warm enough to get moving but cool enough to keep moving, I’m a big fan of this shortsie and Shruggie combo. Since the Shruggie features an ultra cropped hem, it warms my upper body while showing off the shortsie’s neon strap details and fitted body for a fierce touch.
2. Brunch with the girlsWe weekend warriors need the comfort of staying in bed past 10 am (but make it cute) when we brunch with the girls.
The easiest way to achieve a cozy chic balance is throwing the cropped sweatshirt over a skirt set like this floral high neck bra and matching skort. Mixing feminine pieces with a sportier sweatshirt gives you a pulled together look that’s still effortless and feels like your upper body is wrapped in your fav comforter that’s soft as a cloud.
3. Running errandsWhether you’re grabbing groceries or doing a Target run, a layering piece is essential.
Did you warm up by stockpiling your cart and sipping a PSL? No sweat. It’s easy to slip the hoodie off and tie around your waist – without a dreaded extra layer of fabric heating your low back and legs, thanks to that ultra cropped hem.
Since it’s hard to think of an outfit a cropped hoodie doesn’t pair well with, this closet staple is a foolproof addition to your go-to errand fit. For an added fall fashion flare (literally) try pairing it with flared leggings.
Take your LBD for a spin with a Shruggie pulled over your shoulders. It’s ideal for a casual date night, even if it comes off once you arrive at your destination. Opt for black from head to toe for a dressier vibe, pairing a black cropped hoodie with black cowboy boots for a sexy western spin on a classic date night dress.
If you’re going on a day date, layer a neutral color with your LBD and favorite casual sneakers for a sportier look.
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Step Up Shruggie – Heather Grey $ 65
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Step Up Shruggie – Rose Taupe $ 65
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Step Up Shruggie – White Heather $ 65
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Step Up Shruggie – Black $ 65
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Step Up Shruggie – Crème Brulée $ 65
Buy Now var swiper = new Swiper(".post-prod-slider .design_product_slider", { slidesPerView: 1, spaceBetween: 10, loop: true, navigation: { nextEl: ".blogilates-button-next", prevEl: ".blogilates-button-prev", }, pagination: { el: ".blogilates-pagination", clickable: true, }, breakpoints: { 480: { slidesPerView: 1, }, 568: { slidesPerView: 2, spaceBetween: 30, }, 768: { slidesPerView: 3, spaceBetween: 30, }, 1024: { slidesPerView: 4, spaceBetween: 45, }, 1350: { slidesPerView: 4, spaceBetween: 55, }, }, }); *This post may contain referral links for products we love, and all opinions are our own. Blogilates.com earns a small commission from these links, at no additional cost to you.5. Fall festivitiesNothing says fall like boots and a sweater. Give this classic look an edgy update with moto boots and a cropped hoodie.
Headed to the pumpkin patch with your fam? Apple picking with your SO? Have lawn tickets to a concert with your friends? This Shruggie’s romantic pleated sleeves will level up your look without sacrificing comfort.
When you’re kinda cold – or kinda not – its added warmth is all you need in a functional, stylish way.
How are you wearing your cropped hoodie this fall? Drop your styling tips below!
October 13, 2022
Doctors Are Prescribing Trader Joe’s Pineapple Juice as a Cold and Flu Remedy
When someone told us that their kid’s pediatrician recommended Trader Joe’s Cold Pressed Pineapple Juice to help fight off the cold and flu, we were intrigued.
As a mom of two young daughters, I wanted to know what was up with so-called magical pineapple juice.
Coming off the pandemic, it truly feels like my kids always have runny noses. I’ve wondered if plugging my kids with elderberry and vitamin C was enough to fight off the winter-slash-classroom germs.
There’s been so much hype around elderberry syrup being a major immunity booster for kids and adults alike. But it does taste kind of bitter, and I’m willing to try whatever it takes to boost my kid’s immunity this winter. Should I be grabbing some pineapple juice as a cold and flu remedy instead? Does pineapple really pack a lot of punch?
I consulted with some experts about the medicinal powers of pineapple juice to uncover once and for all—was this pediatrician on to something? Or is this just a random fad that will fade away as fast as those hair-growing gummies influencers used to shill? Let’s dive in.
We love it for the bromelain“Pineapple has been used as part of traditional folk medicine since ancient times and it continues to be present in various herbal preparations,” says Canada-based Licensed Naturopathic Doctor Yelena Deshko. “One of the main active constituents in pineapple is bromelain, a complex natural mixture of enzymes which possesses notable therapeutic properties.”
Bromelain, explains Dr. Deshko, “has shown a number of promising clinical effects including anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antimicrobial activity.”
In other words, pineapple really does pack quite a punch!
Overall, pineapples “are quite a nutritious fruit,” says Dr. Deshko. “In addition to containing bromelain, described above, pineapples are rich in fiber, vitamin C, manganese and copper.”
“Kids, of course, are generally more prone or susceptible to common cold and general viral infections,” says Dr. Shiven Chaudhry, an integrative medicine specialist based in California and Nevada. “So foods that help with antioxidant support and boost the immune system are really important.”
Since pineapple juice offers a number of nutrients that will help with antioxidant support, “ in turn help in boosting immunity. So, yes, eating pineapples can be beneficial overall because of vitamin C and bromelain.”
Go for the real dealHowever—it may be best to opt for the real stuff vs. juice. “I would recommend fresh pineapple consumption over pineapple juice, but for kids who refuse to eat whole pineapple the juice could be a good secondary option,” advises registered dietitian DJ Mazzoni, RD, MS, CDN, CSCS. “Consuming a nutrient-dense diet can help prevent the cold and flu, so pineapple juice may be a good option.”
Thankfully, my little picky eaters do like fresh pineapple. So while I will strongly consider Trader Joe’s Pineapple Juice for their growing bodies, I’ll first opt for the tangible fruit itself as we ease into winter.
Food fightersCurious about additional ways I could keep my kids cold-free till March (fingers crossed!), I asked Drs. Deshko, Chaudhry, and Mazzoni, about additional immunity-boosting nutrients.
Some essential nutrients for cold and flu season include:
Vitamin C: An essential nutrient that functions as a key antioxidant and has been proven to be effective for boosting immunity. “A 2013 review of clinical trials concluded that regular vitamin C supplementation reduces the duration of common colds,” says Dr. Deshko.
Vitamin D: This vitamin has been the subject of considerable research for its immune boosting effects in the age of the COVID19 pandemic. “A 2021 meta-analysis reported that vitamin-D-deficient individuals had about three times higher chance of getting infected with SARS-CoV-2 and about five times higher probability of developing the severe disease.”
Zinc: “Zinc affects multiple aspects of the immune system and is crucial for normal development and function of many immune cells,” says Dr. Deshko. Recent studies found that micronutrient supplements including zinc, vitamins C and D, may be modestly effective in preventing acute respiratory infections and improving their clinical course by shortening their duration.
Garlic: The benefits of garlic to health have been proclaimed for centuries; “however, only recently has Garlic (Allium sativum) and its derivatives been proposed as a promising candidate for maintaining the balance of the immune system,” points out Dr. Deshko. “Garlic has been found to enhance the functioning of the immune system by stimulating many types of immune cells.”
Shiitake mushrooms: Mushrooms are widely cited for their medicinal qualities. A recent 2015 study found that simply eating shiitake mushrooms daily (between 5-10 grams of dried mushrooms) for 4 weeks significantly increased the immune function of the study participants.
Turmeric: According to Mazzoni, it’s shown in clinical research to have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. “I recommend cooking with turmeric and black pepper in combination. Black pepper significantly increases the amount of turmeric actually absorbed and utilized by the body.”
A healthy lifestyle is key
@andy.lagunas Immune boosting foods! Like & follow for more#gymtok #dietips #diethacks #fyp #fittok #healthysnacks #fitnesshacks #immuneboost #healthy #vitaminc ♬ TO THE MOON – Jnr Choi & Sam Tompkins
Another critical factor for optimal immunity is adequate sleep, stresses Dr. Deshko. (This applies to both kids and adults, of course!) “Short sleep duration and poor sleep quality have been implicated in the susceptibility to infectious illness. Recent studies have confirmed that shorter sleep duration prior to viral exposure, was associated with increased susceptibility to the common cold.”
Dr. Chaudhry recommends limiting processed foods, which he says may cause blood sugar to spike. “This is an environment where infections can thrive in the body. It can increase inflammation which is not good because that depresses your immunity level. In some way, your body is busy fighting against a bad diet instead of protecting you against viruses and bacteria.”
Adds Mazzoni: “Cultivating a healthy immune system through diet, exercise and other lifestyle factors like socialization–a healthy social life is actually associated with improved immune function–is a more logical approach to immunity than germ avoidance in my opinion.”
There are germs everywhere, he explains, “and healthy individuals have an immune system which can fight those germs off.”
October 11, 2022
Fruit Infused Water Ideas For Your New Gallon Bottle
Infused water just tastes better. Period.
Don’t believe me? I’m going to challenge you to see how much more water you drink when it has notes of fruit, citrus, herbs, and a hint of sweetness.
If you struggle to gulp down your 8-10 glasses per day (or more if you live in hot climates, hit the sauna or exercise), then adding a ‘little something-something’ to your water definitely helps it go down better.
Like, you might actually begin to crave it.
The key to amazingly delicious infused water is the combinations of fruits and herbs that taste great together. If you like things a little matchy-matchy (same!), try the combos we put together for these cute-as-can-be Ready, Set, Glow Gallon Timer Bottles.
PS – they come with a built-in infuser, so all you have to do is add your flavors of choice 
This question might go right into the “duh” category, but here it goes anyway.
According to the Harvard School of Public Health, hydration “regulates body temperature, keep joints lubricated, prevent infections, delivers nutrients to cells, and keep organs functioning properly. Being well-hydrated also improves sleep quality, cognition, and mood.”
And, it makes your skin look SO much better. Enough said. Simply put, water is the cheapest and easiest way to improve your health.
Feeling the Blue Gallon Bottle?The flavor combo in this infused water recipe tastes as good as it looks! It’s a little sweet, citrus-y with light notes of mint.
Pro tip: The key to getting the most flavor out of your water is to chop the fruit into cubes so that you can fit more in the cylinder. Leave the more delicate fruits for last when layering in your ingredients so they stay in tact. Add as little or as much of the following to suit your taste buds.
Blue-Green Infused Water RecipePearsFresh mintPersian cucumbersLimeBlueberries
Peach Infused Water ComboFor the peach bottle, we chose a more tropical theme featuring mango, cantaloupe and oranges. This combo would taste delicious with some added basil in place of the mint, if desired.
Peach RecipeMangoCantaloupeOrangeFresh mint or basilPurple Infused Water ComboIf going with the purple bottle, consider a berry-based combination! Just add these delicate fruits in gently.
Purple RecipeBlackberriesBlueberriesRaspberriesLemon
Remember, hydration is key to good health and glowing skin, and is essential if you hit the gym hard and often! So drink up!
Comment below which version you want to try first! And let us know if you drink more water when it’s infused (and because your cute new water bottle encourages you with a positive note and timer printed on the side).
October 10, 2022
This Under Desk Treadmill Changed the Way I Work From Home
10,000 steps a day for health maintenance – simple right?
Honestly, that is a load of crap. I don’t know whooo is getting in that many steps a day, but back in February of this year, it certainly was not me. Actually, I was glued to my pink velvet desk chair working alone and in silence for 9+ hours a day.
Two years after the pandemic hit and therefore two years of working from home, I was feeling more disconnected from my body than I had ever felt.
I wanted to have a balance of health and excelling while working from home, but it didn’t feel possible. With a constant flow of messages coming in from our worldwide team members and a rapidly expanding company, I would hop onto our messaging apps first thing in the morning and proceed to work all day, sitting.
There was a time in my life when 10,000 steps came easily to me, when I would spend my morning outside for a daily run. However, I was driven away from my daily habit for several reasons that all hit at once – working from home, my own ambition to excel in the workplace, and a horrible case of covid that wreaked havoc on my lungs and health.
Now I’m left with thoughts like: How were people getting 10,000 steps a day? How did I once get that many steps a day? How could I get back to feeling like me?
Enter the idea of walking and working.I saw a video of a ‘walking desk’ setup on TikTok and thought if I was going to keep work a priority but also shift to focusing on my health, maybe this was the answer.
Plot twist (more like exactly where we all knew this was headed) the Amazon desk treadmill (also called a walking pad) was just the thing I needed.
I am obsessed with aesthetics but also on a budget – AKA I had to buy the cheapest well-reviewed tread I could find because those things can be priceeeey.
Getting set upThere are many desk treadmills on Amazon if you’re looking for something a little higher quality, but this one got the job done! It does not go over a 3.8mph speed which is fine for walking and working purposes.
If you don’t have a standing desk – you will probably need a standing desk converter.
This is just a device that will raise your desktop or laptop to eye level so you’re not hunched over. Again I am a babe on a budget, so I purchased this one. Not the most aesthetic but we’re in this for health and wellness, not aesthetics (@me, insert eye roll).
I will warn you, there is somewhat of a learning curve. My first walk I thought, “oh no, have I spent all this money and made a mistake?”
At first, it’s a little hard to focus and honestly a little uncomfortable. Not physically – just it’s a little hard to multitask. I mean I had been sitting to work for as long as I had entered the post-college work force (and I am somewhat uncoordinated).
Good news! After the first 3 days of so, I found myself well-adjusted and comfortable on the desk treadmill.
I began walking and working at the 3pmh, which is a 20-minute mile. I also set an approachable goal for myself at 10,000 steps a day. For me, a 5’3”, 29 year old female – that equates to about 2 hours of walking and working. After two hours of walking and working, I am always a little sweaty and adequately tired.
As I got more comfortable, I was able to up my speed. My tread specifically increases in increments of .2. I can now walk and work at a speed of 3.8 which is plenty fast enough for me. I do not find myself wishing the tread went any faster – 3.8 is a brisk walk.
Is walking and working realistic? Productive?I see videos on TikTok of people walking their entire work days. For me, this is not doable. As Creative Brand Director, I work on a variety of tasks that take different amounts of consideration and detail…and focus.
I find walking and working good for tasks that are simple to moderate on the complexity scale. Things like planning the social feed, making photo selects, setting up projects and deadlines. I do not walk and work for more complex tasks – like writing an in depth email or crafting up a beautiful email template.
All the props to those people out there walking 30,000 steps a day – it just can’t be me! I encourage you to find what kind of tasks work best for you. I am a deep thinker and problem solver, so I find at times I literally need to sit and think things out.
Should you get a desk treadmill?Yes, absolutely. The walking tread has allowed me to shift my mindset and make time for being active which I was absolutely not doing in February. Two hours of walking and working and two hours of being out of my comfort zone translated well into the rest of my life.
This feeling of being proud of myself after being a bit uncomfortable motivated me to do more. I began to take some of my daily walks outside and turned them into a daily run.
10,000 steps a day and really honing in on my nutrition (many factors here, not just the tread) allowed me to lose 20 pounds from February to June.
*This post may contain referral links for products we love, and all opinions are our own. Blogilates.com earns a small commission from these links, at no additional cost to you.ALL of that, just from a desk treadmill?Sometimes, I find that when you’re trapped in a state of comfort and even sadness, it’s hard to break out. It’s hard to even think about how to get yourself out of a rut and can be intimidating. The tread is perfect for this. It’s an in-home solution you have complete control over.
The desk treadmill pushed me to be just a teeny bit uncomfortable everyday.
The feeling of 2 hours of work, both getting my job done and taking care of myself has made me so proud. All I needed was that little push to get outside of my comfort zone.
At the beginning of March I ran a half marathon, my longest run in about 2.5 years. Then, I began to run more regularly and learned to make time for myself outside of work. I became so comfortable with being slightly uncomfortable that I actually ran my first ever marathon at the end of April.
Seriously – I am so passionate about the walking tread, I could literally go on and on. I think if you’re in a rut and you’re working from home, this could be your SIGN to make that little change.
Get a little uncomfy, you can do this. Take it slow and steady. You’re going to make yourself to proud.
October 9, 2022
How Often Should You Really Wash Your Hair?
There’s no better feeling than hopping into the shower after a long day. But for some, needing to wash your hair is just another chore.
It seems like there are two types of people: those who wash their hair daily and those who wait until it’s so greasy that dry shampoo won’t even begin to make a dent in it (honestly, I think we’ve all been there).
If you’re in the camp who automatically goes for the shampoo after using your favorite body wash, you may think that washing your hair daily is keeping it clean and healthy. However, this actually might not be the case.
You might be thinking, “Well, what does she know about hair?” That’s a valid question since I’m not a hair stylist, but I spoke to a few who are and guess what? They are all in agreement that you shouldn’t wash your hair everyday.
When it comes to how often you should wash your hair, that answer varies based on multiple factors which we’ll get to in a moment. Make sure you keep on reading to find out about how to best care for your strands and some products that’ll give it a boost.
How Often Should You Wash Your Hair?Drum roll…. The answer to this question isn’t that simple. As I briefly mentioned above, how often you should wash your hair really depends.
“You should wash your hair depending on your lifestyle (activity level) and your hair type/texture,” says José Rojas, hair stylist and Chicagoland regional training artist for Hair Cuttery Family of Brands.
Hair Type MattersWhile activity level plays a role, it’s really the texture and type of hair you have which dictates how often you should wash it.
Desirae Blais, licensed cosmetologist at Blush Beauty Boutique and member of the Sally Beauty Crew, breaks down the different hair types and explains how you’ll want to go about washing your strands.
“Most coarse, thick, and curly textures only need to be washed once every 1 to 3 weeks,” Blais says. “This is beneficial to not dry out the hair or disrupt curl patterns.”
She continues by saying that medium thick hair and extensions should wash their hair once every one to two weeks.
However, fine hair is the hair type that needs the most attention. “Fine hair should be washed usually once per week as this texture tends to get weighed down or oily the fastest,”says Blais.
Consider Activity Level and Lifestyle
@blogilates Anyone else?#fitgirl #fitgirlcheck #pilates #hairwashday #hairwash #fitnesstips #homeworkout #activelifestyle #activewear #KeepingItCute #gymlife ♬ original sound – warruf
Someone who works out often might find their hair looks oily and feels “dirty” more often than not. In these instances, instead of using shampoo to wash your hair, Blais suggests co-washing in between full washes.
Co-washing is the process involving using conditioner instead of shampoo on the hair to hydrate and cleanse without the common drying properties associated with traditional shampoo. It’s a great in-between step if you’re looking to prolong the time span between washes while also cleansing and caring for your strands.
How to Actually Wash Your HairThis might seem silly, but many people don’t actually know how to properly wash their hair.
“What you need to be cleansing is your roots and scalp, no matter what your hair type is because it sets the foundation for healthy hair,” says Clyde Haygood, celebrity hairstylist and Pura D’Or partner. “I always suggest giving the ends some protection & applying shampoo only at the roots and letting it run through the rest of the hair to cleanse while rinsing.”
Not only is washing your hair important, but the products used can have an impact on the quality and health of your strands. “You should always wash your hair with a sulfate, paraben, silicone free shampoo and conditioner,” says Rojas. “If you tend to use styling products (gels, creams, hairspray) I would suggest using a clarifying shampoo 1-2 times a month to make sure we get any build up or impurities.”
If you have color-treated hair, it’s even more important to pay attention to what ingredients are in your shampoo and how you wash your hair. (Bonus tip – wash your hair with cold water to preserve the intensity of the color.)
“For color-treated hair, I always say the less you wash the better,” says Blais. “This allows for natural oils to build back up in the hair after color services and prolongs the life of your color, toner, or vivid color.”
In terms of shampoo ingredients, here is a more extensive list of main one’s you’ll want to avoid:
– Sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS)
– Sodium laureth sulfate (SLES)
– Parabens (methylparaben, propylparaben, butylparaben, etc.)
– Alcohols (ethanol or propanol)
– Sodium chloride (salt)
Best Hair Products?Here’s what the experts recommend.
Olaplex No. 4 and No. 5
“It’s a great shampoo and conditioner if you have color treated and or with highlights/balayage,” says Rojas.
Moroccan Oil Intense Hydrating Mask
If your hair lacks moisture, Rojas recommends this hydration mask best for medium to thick hair.
TPH by Taraji Master Cleanse Targeted Scalp Wash
“This is a perfect applicator for getting right to the scalp in hard to reach places like by extension wefts etc,” says Blais.
Matrix A Curl Can Dream Co Wash
“This product can be used no matter what texture or hair type between washes for a refresh,” says Blais.
Raw Sugar Living Bounce Back Shampoo
A clarifying shampoo to remove all the build up from environmental stressors with its mango, agave, and carrot oil formula.
Pura D’or Argan Oil
“Dry and damaged hair needs nourishment,” says Haygood. “I suggest treating the ends with this product before shampooing to nourish and protect.”
October 7, 2022
Glyphosate in Cheerios? Let’s Talk About It.
I didn’t plan on writing this, but then a TikTok went viral this week that um…presented an opportunity.
It was a (now removed) “foods I’ll never eat again” video, and the creator kicked off her list with a staple in many households, Cheerios.
Her rationale is based on this cereal being “known to have really high glyphosate residues.” She goes on, claiming that this is because Cheerios are made with oats, which are genetically modified (they’re not though), and therefore exposed to more chemicals – like glyphosate.
Why is she calling out glyphosate? Because it’s been linked to cancer.
Whew. Sounds pretty scary, right? Especially since many of us feed Cheerios to our KIDS?! And wait, oats are causing cancer now?!
Before you run to clean out your pantry, let’s get some things straight.
Glyphosate is an herbicide. You probably know it as Roundup. Maybe you’ve even seen people on the internet yelling about Roundup being in your food? I definitely have.
Chatter about glyphosate blew up when a number of civil lawsuits emerged back in 2018, claiming that this chemical causes cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer looked into the risks and did, in fact, conclude that glyphosate is “probably carcinogenic to humans.” In other words, they’re saying the risk is possible.
But then, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and European Food Safety Authorities chimed in with their own insight, saying that the herbicide probably wasn’t giving people cancer. Hmm.
Here’s what we do know.
The lawsuits originated from people directly exposed to glyphosate.
The person in the Cheerios TikTok and many others before her always seem to leave this part out. The (mixed) research that makes the connection between glyphosate and cancer pertains to people who are directly exposed to the chemical. The farmers and people who are literally spraying Roundup on the crops. Not people eating food that may contain it.
Source: EWG
How much glyphosate is in Cheerios?Obviously no one is spraying Cheerios with Roundup before it’s boxed up and shipped to your local grocery store. However, glyphosate is occasionally sprayed on oats as a drying agent. So it’s not surprising that glyphosate has been detected in Cheerios by the EWG, a non-profit activist group.
But how much?
Small amounts. Like really small. Parts per BILLION (ppb) small.
To put it in perspective, an average-sized person would need to eat THOUSANDS of servings of Cheerios every single day to ingest a comparable amount of glyphosate to those who come in direct contact with it and therefore may have an increased risk for cancer.
As they say, the dose makes the poison.
As I’m writing this, the original TikTok is no longer on the creator’s feed. I’ll leave a response by Food Science Babe, a food scientist, here so you can see some of the original comments too.
Fear is a red flag for misinformation
@foodsciencebabe Stop demonizing safe less expensive more accessible foodsThis is so disappointing to see from someone that should understand food science and agriculture. Hence why the appeal to authority fallacy is a logical fallacy. Check out my many other videos on all of these topics as well. @foodsciencebabe #foodscience #cheerios #healthyfood #ramen ♬ original sound – Food Science Babe
The point of this article isn’t to debate whether or not glyphosate is safe. I’ll never claim to be a food scientist, and I’ll never shame someone for wanting to learn more about ingredients or the impact of chemicals used in our food system.
It’s the fact that the “foods I’ll never eat” videos make my skin crawl. Why? Because they’re almost always used to cause FEAR. I get that this approach gets views, but I instantly question the credibility of the creator anytime I see it.
Is it good to know how to read a label and be aware of what you’re eating? Of course. Do some people need to avoid certain ingredients due to health conditions, food sensitivities, intolerances, etc.? You bet.
But generalizing and calling certain foods BAD or saying they’re “killing you” is irresponsible. These statements completely disregard that each and every one of us has different needs not only physiologically, but also socially and economically.
Why do people eat Cheerios? They’re affordable, shelf stable, accessible, and a good source of iron and fiber. Some families buy them for their picky kids, or to have an easy on-the-go snack for their toddler. They’re WIC-approved and they’re an easy finger food for toddlers working on their pincer grasp.
What good does it do to guilt a parent about feeding their kids Cheerios? Or ANY food? Especially if the amounts they’re consuming are probably far FAR below anything that would significantly increase risk. We can’t ignore that anxiety over food has long term health effects too.
From my POV, it’s much more valuable to educate parents about ways to add variety and MORE nutrition to their family’s diet.
Why Menstrual Cups Deserve Your Undying Loyalty
One of my fondest Christmas memories is waking up to Mariah Carey on the speakers, presents under the tree, and bloodstains in my panties. (Yeah, this is going to be a TMI article, but menstruation is a TMI topic.)
While starting the first chapter of “womanhood” wasn’t on my wishlist that year, I’ve reasoned Santa’s choice as this: good girls get Lego sets, bad girls get coal, and hot girls get their period.
Being the hot girl that I am, I’m trying to live more sustainably. That includes ditching regular pads and tampons since stats estimate the average person who menstruates will use 11,000 (!) disposable period products in their lifetime. That’s a lot of plastic waste—like 4,125 plastic bags worth if you’re a pad user.
During my journey to reduce my plastic footprint, I’ve tried everything from period panties to applicator-less tampons to menstrual discs.
My favorite by far, though, is menstrual cups. I sing their praises constantly, but my friends typically respond somewhere between, “I’m a bit nervous to try” and, “OMG, you just stick your fingers up there?! I could never.” But counterpoint: You can, and hopefully after this article, you will.
What are Menstrual Cups?View this post on Instagram
A post shared by DivaCup (@thedivacup)
Menstrual cups are reusable, usually silicone-based cups that sit at the base of the cervix to catch your flow. Depending on how heavy your period is, they can last up to 12 hours before needing to be removed, cleaned, and reinserted.
The reinsertion is usually what puts people off, but 2 women recently made a menstrual cup applicator to help that process along. Cups are similar to menstrual discs, but there are some key differences:
1. Compared to cups, discs are flatter like a shallow bowl.
2. Cups form a suction seal along your vaginal walls to prevent leaks, while the disc naturally rests behind the pubic bone.
3. Discs were designed to be worn during sex, while cups are a no-go in that department.
Are Menstrual Cups Safe?View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Cora (@our.cora)
Short answer: Yes! A 2019 study found that menstrual cups were just as safe and effective as pads/tampons. There have been occurrences of menstrual cup use leading to toxic shock syndrome (TSS), but gynecologist Dr. Mary Jane Minkin says that’s extremely rare and also a possibility (though again, very rare) with tampons. (Sidenote: Cups and IUDs don’t get along that well, so it might not be the best option if that’s your current birth control method.)
On another safety note, if you’ve heard the stories of menstrual cups getting stuck, allow me to calm these concerns. Like I said before, the cups work by forming a suction seal along your vaginal walls, and if that seal is really tight, it might be difficult to pull the cup out. If that happens, you just need to pinch the base of the cup to release that pressure.
Cups can also wiggle up towards your cervix, just out of reach for your delicate fingers. In that case, try to remove it while in different positions, or if push comes to shove, ask a medical provider or friend to quite literally give you a hand.
Why do you love them so much? Besides the environment.I could tell you, or I could tell you in a list. I think I’ll go with the latter.
– When I use tampons, I have to change them every 4 hours during heavy days. Cups last over twice as long for me, which means I don’t have to plan my schedule around bathroom breaks.
– It’s giving savings: One cup lasts for years, which means one $40 purchase instead of a $10 box of tampons every. single. month.
– They’re so comfortable! Once you get the hang of placing cups properly, you barely feel them.
Fine, I’m Convinced. Which One Should I Buy?
@periodnirvana There really is a cup for almost everyone. @periodnirvana Finding it can be the hard part but my resources are designed to help #menstrualcup #periodnirvana #periodtok #periodcup ♬ Cute – Prod by Rose & Artsounds Chill
The OG is DivaCup, which I use in a model 2. But unless your flow is like Niagara Falls (which mine sometimes is), start with the smaller model 1. Cora’s cup is also nice and easy to learn with, which is why The New York Times named it the best cup for beginners in 2020. Lastly, if you’re interested in trying out a disc-style cup, Nixit is a good option. Of course, the best option would be some kind of magic vacuum that sucks out your whole period in 10 minutes, but unfortunately, science is way behind.
October 5, 2022
“One Thing About Me”… is I Love A Therapeutic TikTok Trend
While scrolling through your For You Page on TikTok, you might have heard Nicki Minaj’s song “Super Freaky Girl” playing in the background of nearly every video — and well, there’s a reason for that.
@kenasue I think i still have the bra somewhere #onethingaboutme #storytime #story #victoriassecret ♬ original sound – Mak
Over the past few weeks, TikTok users have been taking it to this social media platform to share their traumatic stories to the beat of the popular rap song.
I know, it sounds a bit strange. But there may actually be a reason why this trend has gained so much popularity — it can be therapeutic.
If you’re like myself, then you may always be on the hunt for new ways to improve your mental health. While therapy and medication are great, sometimes you just want to cope in a more lighthearted and relatable way.
The #OneThingAboutMe trend calls for just that.According to Kristen Gingrich, licensed clinical social worker and certified clinical supervisor, this trend falls into the category of storytelling which is actually used in traditional therapy modalities to work through and heal trauma.
“Storytelling allows people to connect to their trauma in a way that they have control over,” she says. “It also allows individuals the opportunity to rethink the ways that they see their trauma, address things like cognitive distortions, and give them a way to make sense of their trauma.”
Videos that have been posted as part of this ongoing trend range in topics from encounters with creepy people to the loss of a parent. The topics vary depending on the individual, but a common theme among them seems to be recalling incidents and events that one felt were very traumatic for them.
Seeing others share their stories can be therapeutic too, says Gingrich.
@ramo_akh Based Off A True Story #onethingaboutme #storytime #arab #fyp ♬ original sound – Ramo Akh
“It gives us a way to connect with others who may have gone through similar things while also allowing followers to connect and feel like they are not alone.”
One of the great aspects of social media is that you’re bound to find creators and people who have gone through similar experiences, and relate over it. Even Gingrich says she has watched many of the videos and has felt “seen” as a result.
Singing the song to a beat (or way off the beat in many cases) likely has no real impact on the potential therapeutic benefits itself. However, it might serve as a pathway for people to begin to feel comfortable sharing their stories as it has become such a popular trend.
@mischmacc She’s a super freak for sure. #superfreak #ChewTheVibes #freestyle #dating ♬ Super Freaky Girl – Nicki Minaj
With that said, TikTok is a very public forum and these videos have a tendency to go viral. That means you’ll be sharing your story with thousands, if not millions of people.
“I think a disadvantage of this trend is really putting out personal information to the world and the world responding,” says Gingrich. “I have seen a few responses to some of these videos that were very hateful and even victim blaming which can have an impact on the original poster or even the people who may see the response.”
Unfortunately, not everyone on social media is nice.Yes, we’re talking about trolls and haters. But if you have some thick skin and think that hopping on the One Thing About Me trend might not only be therapeutic for you, but also help others, then it may be worth a shot to give it a try.
Bottom line: TikTok trends come and go.One thing about TikTok is…trends aren’t forever. “One thing about me” may be popular right now, but if you’re not ready to share your most traumatic experiences with the internet, don’t do it just to stay “relevant.”
Your story is only yours to tell on your terms and how you want it and there’s power in that.
October 3, 2022
I Spent the Summer Trying Non-Alcoholic Drinks. Here Are My Reviews.
My reviews of some popular non-alcoholic beverages are finally in.
If you haven’t been following along, it all started sometime this summer, when we noticed that non-alcoholic beverage brands were suddenly everywhere. Well, I hadn’t actually noticed yet, but all it took was one message in the Blogifam group chat for the algorithm to flood me with the most aesthetic ads I think I’ve ever seen. The marketing is GOOD.
First I wanted to know why the non-alcoholic market was suddenly booming. Are we on a health kick? Is this yet another effect of COVID? So I did a little research (read: I watched A LOT of TikToks) and interviewed someone who embarked and continued on her own sober curiosity journey this year.
As I was writing that article, I started sampling some of the brands I kept seeing on TikTok and IG. It felt neverending – not in a bad way, there are just SO MANY and I had no idea.
And that brings me to my first point – This is in no way an extensive list of all the brands out there, and I’ll probably continue to explore. So if you don’t see your favorite bevvie on this list, let me know in the comments!
Here are the non-alcoholic drinks I tried, and my honest opinions.
1. Vybes CBD DrinksI have to be honest. I didn’t understand the “point” of non-alcoholic drinks at first. My first thought was, “why not just drink a kombucha or Sprite or something?”
I get it now.
Vybes was the first beverage I tried that contains CBD. These specifically contain CBD isolate, a pure form of CBD that doesn’t contain THC. In other words, this won’t get you high. It may help with stress, anxiety, and concentration though. Research is still pretty fresh to say for sure.
My experience? I definitely felt like it took the “edge” off. And there WAS an edge that day (and pretty much every day for me, while I’m being honest). It wasn’t life-changing and there’s a chance it was a placebo effect, but I’d still drink these even if I felt “nothing,” because the flavors are so good.
My sample box had:
Watermelon Lime (hands down my favorite)Blueberry MintStrawberry LavenderPassionfruit PineappleBlood Orange Lime (2nd favorite – maybe I’m just really into lime?)Peach Ginger
I didn’t hate any of the flavors, and I’m still thinking about the Watermelon Lime. The only issue is the price point – these run around $6-7 per bottle. I’d buy them again, but I probably won’t keep my fridge stocked with these, no matter how aesthetically pleasing it sounds.
2. Kin EuphoricsFounded by Bella Hadid and Jen Batchelor, Kin Euphorics seems to be one of the most well-known alcohol alternative brands. Kin is described as a “daily brain care ritual” designed to “set your mind free.” The intention is to replace the social ritual of drinking with self-care.
Are we seeing a trend here? We still want to feel GOOD, but without the icky consequences of alcohol, like hangovers that take us out for days on end and alcohol-induced anxiety.
Kin uses nootropics and adaptogens get you there. “Nootropics” is just an umbrella term for something you ingest to improve your mental performance. Coffee and CBD are examples of a couple you’re likely familiar with.
Adaptogens are natural substances (usually mushrooms and plants) that help your body “adapt” to stress. So instead of spiraling, you’ll find it easier to regulate. If you’re wondering – no, these don’t get you high either
I tried Kin Spritz, which is meant to provide “social energy.” It contains caffeine (50mg), and a proprietary blend consisting of:
GABA – Neurotransmitter that “slows down” your brain. We need more research to say for sure if this is effective as a supplement
5-HTP – Amino acid used to produce serotonin
Citicoline – Also known as CDP-choline, taken as a supplement to improve brain function
L-Theanine – Amino acid found in tea that reduces stress and anxiety
L-Tyrosine – Amino acid needed to produce neurotransmitters for stress and sleep.
Rhodiola Rosea – Herb used to treat anxiety, fatigue, and depression.
I liked the taste! It was somewhere between a sparkling water and an energy drink. I like that it doesn’t contain stevia – I just don’t love the taste.
I drank this before I sat down to work, and I definitely felt focused and like I’d just had a cup of coffee. Not jittery, just refreshed.
I also tried Lightwave, which helps “mellow your mind.” This one is caffeine-free! It contains reishi mushrooms, L-Theanine, L-Tryptophan, and magnesium glycinate.
I tried this one in the evening because I was afraid it would make me sleepy. I didn’t notice much change really – maybe because I was already winding down for the night?Plus I don’t have any issues with relaxing and falling asleep at night, but if you do, maybe this could help!
3. Lyre’sLyre’s was the first non-alcoholic beverage brand I tried. I opted to to try the canned beverages, which are meant to mimic spritz-type cocktail. Sounds delish, right?
Sadly, I didn’t love them. They were much sweeter than Kin and the taste really reminded me of an energy drink. However, these don’t contain any kind of adaptogen or nootropic. So if you’re looking to avoid those ingredients, this may be worth a shot! For me, it brought up the question I had in the very beginning: Why not just drink a Sprite?
I’m not writing Lyre’s off completely though! They have a TON of other products that seem more “for me,” especially after trying some other types of non-alcoholic brands after I sampled these. For example, I have my eye on the coffee liqueur 
4. RecessThis tasted like a sparkling water to me. I’m not a huge sparkling water fan (sorry La Croix fans), so I was a little disappointed when I tried this. AND THEN I used Recess in another mocktail recipe on this journey. You’ll see which one in a few scrolls
5. RitualSo the pretty drinks with adaptogens, nootropics and CBD to help us focus and calm us the F down make sense. But my mind was actually *blown* when I learned that zero-proof liquor exists.
Non-alcoholic…spirits? Like tequila?
YES. And more. When I reached out to Ritual Zero Proof to learn about this, not only did they offer an interview with their founder, Marcus Sakey, but they sent me all four of their zero-proof spirits to try: Whiskey, tequila, gin, and rum.
…and that’s when I became a mixologist overnight. Not even kidding, I RAN to Amazon and purchased giant ice cube trays and pretty glasses. I skipped the cocktail shaker for now.
Before even taking a single sip of these non-alcoholic spirits, I rated the experience a 10/10.
Ritual Tequila AlternativeI decided to make a paloma with the zero-proof tequila. I used a variation of the recipe from their website:
– 2 oz Ritual Tequila Alternative
– Juice of 1/2 lime
– 2 oz fresh grapefruit juice
– 2 oz sparkling water (I actually used Recess Blood Orange here!)
– Tajín for the rim of the glass
I’ll for sure be making this again. It was refreshing, and the tequila alternative gave the drink some depth without the “alcohol” taste. It somehow still gave me a warm feeling like alcohol does.
Ritual WhiskeyI tried this one straight out of the bottle. Don’t ask me why. I hadn’t tried any of the non-alcoholic spirits yet, so I guess I was just feeling impatient.
Big mistake. Huge.
I’m not saying regular whiskey smells GOOD, but somehow the smell of this almost knocked me out, even without alcohol. The taste was not for me. It’s too smokey, and potent in every way. I’ll give it another chance one day in a cocktail.
Ritual GinI used this to make The Bees Knees, a recipe I found on the Ritual website.
2 oz Gin Alternative
1 oz fresh lemon juice
1/2 tsp honey simple syrup
I improvised my own honey simple syrup and then topped this with sparkling water. This was another winner that I would definitely drink again.
Like the paloma, it gave me the familiar warm feeling of an actual cocktail. To be honest, I’m not sure I’ve ever had regular gin in my life, so I can’t speak to how similar this tastes to the real thing.
Ritual RumI kept this one simple and mixed together a quick mojito, which is just Rum Alternative, soda water, mint, and lime juice. This one was good too. Looking back, a piña colada would have been the move for this one. I’ll try that soon.
Overall, I loved the Ritual products. I didn’t understand them until I actually experienced how they take a mocktail from tasting like juice to something that truly reminds me of a cocktail. The drink recipes on their website are endless too.
6. MondayOn its own, Monday zero proof whiskey smelled MUCH better than Ritual. It’s actually what made me realize that trying these straight was probably a mistake. I had saved this one for last because I was afraid of what I might have to drink… which makes my experience with this one even better.
Monday actually sent me a cocktail kit, including the zero proof whiskey, a few mixers, and a recipe card with mocktail inspo (this would make a beautiful gift, btw!). I followed the recipe on the card to make a Whiskey Mule – if you’ve never made one (me too, before this experiment), it’s just whiskey, ginger beer, and lime.
My rating? 10/10.
I could sip on this daily.
7. Athletic BrewingI’m not a beer drinker so I recruited one of my husband’s friends who IS to help me out with this one. We tried Upside Dawn from Athletic Brewing, which I understand is their version of a golden ale.
His review was literally two thumbs up emojis (
), which may not sound like a big deal, but just trust me when I say it is. He’s a tough critic when it comes to food and drinks.
I did try it myself of course, and it tasted like beer. That’s really all I can say since I’m not a beer drinker, but I guess that’s a good thing? I didn’t hate the flavor and I found myself sipping on it without forcing it (not something I can say about most beer ).
Did this review make any sense? YES you should try Athletic Brewing.
8. HOP WTRAnother fun non-alcoholic beer alternative!
I’d describe HOP WTR as a cross between light beer and sparkling water. Maybe that sounds gross? I promise it’s not. I liked the different flavors, but they were faint.
This contains actual hops (again a very faint flavor), plus L-Theanine and ashwagandha to boost brain function and stress management.
Basically if you’re someone who likes beer because it’s easy to sip on, this is a good option that won’t get you drunk but WILL hydrate you and maybe help you chill out a little.
Where is the WINE?!Did I drop the ball here?! UGH maybe. After reading reviews and speaking with people for their input, the consensus is that finding a good non-alcoholic wine is difficult. They either taste like sparkling grapefruit juice like we drank on NYE when we were 12, or they’re just…not good.
Decision paralysis got me here. I should still try some, right? If you have a fave, LMK in the comments.
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