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Why Intuitive Eating Might Not Work for You

Intuitive eating is one of those weight-loss fads people swear by, but is it actually effective? Like so many weight loss methods floating around out there, it may work for you or it may not. I know, that’s so noncommittal. But let me explain.

Intuitive eating isn’t a diet. It’s a method of eating that gives its users a great degree of freedom of what and how much they eat. Some people experience success with intuitive eating and are able to use the technique to lose excess weight. But unfortunately, not everyone responds well to this dietary strategy. In fact, it can cause some people to gain even more weight!

So how can you tell if intuitive eating is a good strategy for you to try, or if it will cause you to fall back even further on your weight-loss journey? While you won’t know for sure unless you try it, here are a few indications that intuitive eating might not work for you (even if it worked for your sister, best friend, or cousin Harry).

Understanding How Intuitive Eating Works

Before we dive into the pros and cons of intuitive eating, let’s review what it is and what it isn’t, shall we? Intuitive eating is a pretty simple idea, and its main principles were developed in 1995 by two dietitians (Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch).

The main idea behind this type of eating is to come to peaceful terms with all different types of foods. You’re not supposed to refer to any foods as bad or off-limits when you adopt this way of eating. Instead, you do the following:

  • Listen to your body and consume what feels right in the moment

  • Eat when you’re hungry and stop eating when you’re full

  • Select foods that make your mind and body feel good while satisfying your health needs

  • Respect your emotions and seek treatment for them instead of engaging in emotional eating

Some people may lose weight with this eating strategy, but many others may not. Here are a few indications you may not want to try intuitive eating.

Indications Intuitive Eating May Not Be Right for You

Here are a few indications that intuitive eating may not work for your situation:

  • You have certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes. Consult with your doctor to see if there are certain foods you should add or cut out of your diet completely.

  • You don’t know how to recognize your body’s hunger or satiety signals. Eating intuitively sounds great in theory, but what if you don’t trust your body’s intuition? For some people, counting calories is a more reliable way to avoid overeating (or undereating).

  • You have a hard time losing weight. If you already struggle to lose weight, you may plateau or even gain weight by eating intuitively. Some people have higher ghrelin levels than others (that’s the hormone that triggers hunger), and they’re more likely to gain weight if they always eat until they’re full. For people like this, tracking calorie and macro intakes is essential for weight-loss success.

  • You’re addicted to sugar. Yes, science shows that it’s possible to become addicted to sugar. And if you follow the intuitive eating mindset, you can eat sugar if you really want it. As you can imagine, this can lead to over-indulgence for people whose relationship with sugar is out of control. It’s generally best to stay away from sugar or severely limit it in your diet rather than allow yourself to eat it “intuitively.”

So there you have it. If any of the above bullet points sound like you, intuitive eating may be something you want to skip (especially if you are trying to lose weight).

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Best Natural Sleep Aids

Remember the days when you slept like a baby and always woke up feeling refreshed and energized? The last time I slept that way was when I was a teenager. It seems like sleep has become more evasive the older I’ve gotten and the more I’ve had to “adult.” If you’re like me and you can’t seem to get enough shuteye at night no matter what you do, here are some of the best natural sleep aids I’ve discovered.

Valerian

This herbal medicine is made from a plant’s root. Though it’s not very well-known, it’s a great ingredient for achieving deep, restful sleep. If you have trouble finding it at your grocery store, look for it at your local health food store. Most people add it to tea and take it an hour or so before bedtime.

Though valerian is a great sleep aid, it may interact with some medications. So before you give it a try, talk to your doctor. You should also know that if you take valerian regularly, you shouldn’t suddenly stop taking it. Doing so can cause some anxiety or withdrawal symptoms (eek!)

Chamomile

Chamomile flowers are some of my favorites because they’re so bright and cheerful. They look a lot like daisies. But as energetic as their appearance may be, these little flowers are very effective at helping you sleep. Chamomile tea promotes relaxation and can help you wind down in the hours leading up to bedtime. You may also find that drinking chamomile tea before bed improves your quality of sleep as well.

Just make sure you don’t consume more than the recommended dose. Taking too much chamomile may cause you to get nauseous or to throw up. You may also want to consult with your allergist or doctor before consuming if you have known allergies to flowers in the daisy family.

Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone your body naturally produces in the pineal gland. It helps control circadian rhythms so you sleep better. Unfortunately, some of us don’t seem to create sufficient melatonin to help us nod off at night. Taking anywhere between 1 and 5 mg of melatonin right before bed may help induce sleep.

If you decide to try melatonin, only use it for a maximum of two weeks. Using it longer than that could potentially hamper your ability to produce your own melatonin going forward. Some people may discover that melatonin helps them fall asleep quickly, but causes them to wake frequently in the night. Others may feel more depressed or irritable when using melatonin as a sleep aid. If these things happen to you, discontinue using melatonin products right away.

Lavender

Lavender is a highly fragrant plant that is used in many sleep aid products. It produces a calming effect and may help you fall asleep more easily at night. You can use lavender in a variety of ways. My favorite way is to dilute a few drops of lavender essential oil into a diffuser in my room. I turn the diffuser on at bedtime to enjoy the relaxing benefits of the fumes.

You can also put a few drops of diluted lavender oil right on your pillowcase. Some people even rub a little diluted lavender oil around their nose before going to bed. Just keep in mind that this is a very fragrant oil, so you only need a little bit.

Magnesium

Magnesium is an important mineral that helps boost heart and brain function. However, it may also help relax the body and mind so you can get a restful sleep. Studies show that insufficient levels of magnesium are associated with insomnia and troubled sleep. You can take magnesium in supplement form before bed to see if it helps you get more rest at night.

I love each of these sleep aids and alternate between them regularly. To find out which one works best for you, give each of them a try on different nights over the next few weeks. Happy sleeping!

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What Are The Health Benefits Of Adaptogenic Mushrooms?

Adaptogenic mushrooms have gotten a lot of attention for their ability to mitigate the impact of stress on the body. These fungus species are rich in compounds called adaptogens, which help the body shield itself from the physical, chemical and biological impact of stress. During stressful times, adaptogens allow us to maintain normal function. Explore the benefits of adaptogenic mushrooms and learn more about how to incorporate this ingredient into your diet. 

Improved Stamina

A 2003 rodent study published in the Japanese journal Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin found that the Cordyceps sinensis mushroom reduced fatigue during stressful activities. The researchers reported that rats given the mushroom showed fewer physical markers of stress during forced exercise than rats who did not eat the mushroom. Proponents of the Cordyceps species theorize that it facilitates and enhances the flow of oxygen throughout the body. 

A small study on adult men published in High Altitude Medicine & Biology in 2014 found that taking both Cordyceps sinensis and Rhodiola crenulata decreased signs of fatigue during brief high-altitude training exercises. Research that appeared in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that athletes had less overtraining-related stress after taking Ganoderma lucidum with Cordyceps sinesis. A study published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences found that Ganoderma lucidum found that the mushroom reduced oxidative stress within rodent muscles after physical activity.

Reduced Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety

A 2018 study published in the International Journal of Molecular Science found that the lion's mane mushroom decreased nervous system levels of a chemical called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in mice. Inability to regulate BDNF can result in stress and depression. 

The reishi mushroom is rich in compounds called tripertenes, which research has associated with improved sleep quality and sharper focus as well as reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Protection From Memory Impairment

Research published in the journal Nature in 2020 touted the adaptogenic effect of the reishi mushroom in rodent students. The study authors reported that a dose of the mushroom protected rats from memory and nerve damage with limited oxygen levels. 

The lion's mane mushroom has similar benefits for memory and cognition. In fact, it encourages production of myelin and nerve growth factor, both of which play key roles in brain health. Not only can this mushroom increase concentration and improve mood, it also has potential in reducing symptoms of multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease and other neurocognitive issues.

Boosted Immunity

The reishi mushroom has long been used to stimulate the immune system. along with other adaptogenic mushroom species such as cordyceps, lion's mane, maitake, shiitake, turkey tail and chaga. These shrooms are bursting with cancer-fighting free radicals that help destroy disease cells and support other immune functions. 

The turkey tail mushroom is a vital source of polysaccharide-K, approved as a prescription medication in Japan for cancer patients. PSK can provide immune system support during chemotherapy, destroy leukemia cells and even reduce the mortality rates for certain kinds of cancer. 

Improved Cardiac Health

Reishi also contains compounds called beta-glucans and triterpenes, which help decrease LDL (bad) cholesterol and overall cholesterol in the blood. It's not the only adaptogenic mushroom that can boost heart health, however. Chaga, which is rich in antioxidants, can decrease blood pressure to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. 

Shiitakes are also heart health superheroes. These mushrooms contain phytonutrients that facilitate healthy blood flow, keep blood pressure within a healthy range and prevent plaque from building up within the arteries.

If you're a fan of fungi, try adding any of these adaptogenic mushrooms to your meal rotation to enhance your overall wellness. You can also mix the powdered version of these shrooms with soups, smoothies, juices and sauces for a savory nutritional boost. 

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Lactic Acid: Definition And Advantages For Skin Care

With skincare, people are always in search of the next best thing. Consumers want dynamic and exciting new products to make them feel and look younger, the fountain of youth in a cream or shiny canister.

What many people do not realize is that the most effective skin care treatments and regimens have changed little in decades. One of the most effective cosmetic ingredients is lactic acid, and it has been helping to beautify skin since ancient Egyptian milk baths.

Defining Lactic Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid, lactic acid, contributes to the effectiveness of many over-the-counter skin care products and prescription and professional treatments. AHA is an effective tool in the removal of dead skin cells and the elimination or reduction of many skin imperfections, including:

  • Fine lines
  • Wrinkles
  • Dark spots

Lactic acid occurs naturally in dairy products, and it is the compound that gives soured milk and yogurt its tang. While many people still indulge in traditional milk baths, the lactic acid found in most skin care products today is synthetic.

Advantages of Lactic Acid for the Skin

Lactic acid is vital to the exfoliation process. The AHA dissolves the bond between healthy skin cells and dull, old, or dead cells. The compound accelerates cellular turnover while stimulating cell renewal, helping to replace removed cells with healthier ones.

The exfoliation process helps brighten a person's complexion while producing a softer and smoother appearance. When people use lactic acid-based products regularly, they can experience fundamental changes without the harsh effects of other hydroxy acids.

Other AHAs can provide similar benefits to lactic acid, but they can also dehydrate the skin. However, lactic acid contains glycolic and mandelic acid, which help maintain and improve the skin's natural moisture factor. Other benefits of lactic acid include:

  • Reduced signs of aging
  • Reduction of sunspots
  • Reduced bumpiness

Potential Side Effects

While lactic acid sounds like the perfect skincare ingredient, it does come with some side effects. For example, users might experience sun sensitivity or mild skin irritation. When using products containing lactic acid, you want to watch for:

  • Dryness
  • Peeling
  • Swelling
  • Itchiness
  • Redness
  • Burning

Some users will experience mild redness, itching, and burning sensations after the initial use but do not experience them on later uses. If the adverse symptoms are moderate or severe, wash the product off immediately.

Dermatologists also recommend that people using lactic acid products use it in combination with sunscreen. You should use SPF 30 or better to protect against sunburn and damage. It is also essential to use sun protection on cloudy days. Failing to use an appropriate sunscreen can eliminate the benefits of lactic acid.

Should You Use Lactic Acid Products?

Whether you choose products containing lactic acid is up to you. Lactic acid is among the least volatile of all AHAs, but the ingredient will not work for all skin types. Before using any new skincare products, talk to your dermatologist or primary care physician.

Lactic acid is one of the oldest known skincare ingredients, but it is also one of the most effective. There is no need to reinvent the wheel of skincare products constantly. Sometimes, the tried-and-true ingredients are all you need.

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Lip Flip Versus Lip Filler: Which Option Is Right For You

Full, luscious lips are a trademark of beauty all over the globe. Because of the beauty standard, many people will try anything to increase and perfect the look of their lips, including the application of excessive makeup or even plastic surgery.

One of the most popular methods for achieving a fuller lip is with Botox treatments, traditionally lip filler. However, there is a growing trend that focuses on flipping the top lip upwards, providing a similar result. The option that best suits you might vary from that which suits your friends.

Understanding Lip Flip

The lip flip procedure uses a neuromodulator injected above the upper lip into the orbicularis oris muscle — the muscle that allows you to roll your lips under or make a kissy face. The injection of the Botox or Dysport will cause the muscle to relax, which results in the upward roll of the lip, exposing the vermillion and creating the appearance of more volume.

Despite the relative newness of the term "lip flip," the procedure is not new. Therefore, any hesitation you might have regarding a lack of data is unfounded. Doctors have been successfully performing lip flips for years. While there are some warnings floating around on social media, the professional consensus is when working with a qualified injector, there are minimal risks.

Understanding Lip Filler

While a lip flip requires the injection of a neuromodulator into the area above the lip, a lip filler uses a dermal filler injected directly into the lip area to increase volume. A lip filler is a gel-like substance, and according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there are various brands that all achieve unique aesthetics. For instance, polylactic acid-based products are excellent for adding volume to thin lips, while hyaluronic acid-based fillers help plump and redefine borders.

Fillers will also change the firmness of your lips. The thicker the filler is, the firmer the lips. Also, the longer the filler lasts will also have an effect on the texture of the lips, with longer-lasting options resulting in firmer lips.

Additionally, lip fillers tend to be more versatile than neuromodulators like Botox. Fillers allow surgeons to accentuate specific parts of the lip, such as the Cupid's bow. It is also possible to fill parts of the lip that help accentuate dimples. Finally, fillers can be used on both the top and bottom lips to add volume.

Choosing Between the Two

The lip flip is a more subtle option, and it is most beneficial for patients with an upper lip that tends to tuck under when smiling. Lip filler is the brute force option, and you will notice the difference.

While choosing is difficult, it is essential to note that it is unnecessary. You can use both options concurrently. However, if you are on the fence about changing your look, consider starting with the lip flip to see how you like the subtle change. Also, remember that neither option is permanent, so no harm, no foul.

Do you think you will try a lip flip or use lip filler?

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Top 3 Reasons To Support Cruelty-Free Products

When looking at your favorite little furry friend, cat, dog, bunny, etc., can you ever imagine doing anything to harm them? Animal testing subjects familiar animals and breeds to unnecessary and inhumane torture for the sake of profits.

According to the organization Cruelty-Free International, over 115 million animals, including dogs and cats, are subject to tests and abuse in labs worldwide. The best way to protest such practices is to purchase cruelty-free products. There are at least three reasons to support cruelty-free brands.

1. Animal Testing Is Unnecessary

While many brands, including cosmetics producers, claim animal testing is necessary to prove human safety and efficacy, this is a lie. There are over 7,000 ingredients producers can choose from to formulate their products that are deemed safe. The extensive list is more than enough to create many products, but producers want to make more money.

The only reason manufacturers still favor animal testing is for financial gains. If a company can find a new chemical or compound, it can call itself innovative, regardless of the uniqueness of the discovery. Animals are often mistreated in the pursuit of chemicals and compounds that act similarly or identically to other proven and known compounds, meaning testing is abuse for profit.

Additionally, alternative testing practices, including in vitro and computer model testing, are equally effective compared to animal testing and are frequently more advantageous. Animal testing is unnecessary.

2. Animal Testing Is Cruel

Many people do not realize the extent of the cruelty animals experience during testing. The animals are often locked in inadequately sized cages. They are blinded, maimed, tortured, and killed. Their lives are nothing but suffering and fear.

Governments worldwide are beginning to recognize the mistreatment, torture, and abuse of testing, placing bans on the practice. Israel, New Zealand, Norway, India, and the EU have banned animal testing. Unfortunately, the U.S. still allows the practice.

In many laboratories, beagles are favored as test subjects because of the breed's docile nature. In 2013, 67,772 dogs and 24,221 cats were subjects of tests. As with any other laboratory animal, these domesticated species were deprived of the fundamental rights we allow our pets.

Choosing cruelty-free products is not an immediate resolution to animal testing, but it does send a message to brands that consumers are against the practice. With enough focus and pressure from consumers about cruelty-free options, businesses, politicians, and brands might take a closer look at animal testing and reassess it.

3. Cruelty-Free Is Environmentally Friendly

Many consumers want natural products, items with fewer additives and formulated compounds. Truly natural products can have less impact on the environment when produced or eventually discarded. Average cosmetic products can lead to toxic interactions with the environment when washed down the drain or discarded.

Additionally, the parabens and sulfates used in many products can be harmful to you in the long term. They can lead to increased signs of aging and other skin issues.

Cruelty-free products are better for you, the environment, and animals. The number of animals residing in labs and subjected to abuse and neglect is staggering. You can make a difference.

Do you use cruelty-free products? If not, will you start? 

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7 Best Hobbies To Improve Your Mental Health

Do you recognize the signs when your mental health needs TLC? Anxiety, irritability, insomnia and depression aren't normal. They're your brain's way of saying, "I need a spa day!" One of the best things you can do is make time every week for a hobby. What are the best hobbies for mental health?

1. Singing

Music is amazing for your heart and mind. It has the power to touch your emotions. Whenever I feel depressed or sluggish, I pop in my favorite records (now they’re on a USB stick) and go wild. Singing connects you with music on a deeper level and helps you remember happy memories with loved ones. If you want to improve your technique, sign up for vocal lessons at the community college.

2. Playing a Musical Instrument

Happy or sad, when you play your instrument, you let your emotions flow in a healthy way. Learning to play a musical instrument gives you a sense of satisfaction and boosts your self-esteem. It’s also good for keeping your brain sharp. The guitar, piano, ukulele, harmonica and drums are fairly easy for adults.

3. Jamming

I really love music. It offers so many possibilities for chasing the blues away. Jamming means playing in a band with friends or family members. This hobby it exercises your memory and keeps your mind active. It's also a surefire cure for loneliness.

4. Dancing

Dance in your living room in your socks. Invite a special someone to take ballroom dancing lessons. Go to YouTube to find the latest dancing crazes and learn the steps. Every kind of dancing offers mental health benefits. 

Dancing combines exercise with music. Physical activity is a smart idea if you’re depressed because it activates feel-good hormones called endorphins. Just let go as the rhythms flow through your body. You can literally dance your worries away!

5. Gardening

Sunshine, fresh air, blue skies, green plants and beautiful flowers are a perfect recipe for getting rid of stress. They take your mind off other things and let you appreciate the little things in life. On days when the phone keeps ringing off the hook, this is my way of telling the world to leave me alone for an hour. Make yourself some refreshing iced tea with lemon ahead of time!

6. Photography

Creative activities exercise all parts of your brain: imagination, problem solving, decision making, memory and analysis skills. Your brain’s neural pathways keep growing and adapting. Photography is an excellent way to put your creativity to good use.

To take the mental health benefits to the next level, go for a hike with your camera. Hiking in nature, and stopping to snap pictures of beautiful scenes, can break up repetitive negative thoughts and replace them with positive emotions. By the time you get back home, I guarantee you’ll have a big smile.

7. Cooking Classes

One of my favorite hobbies is inviting a few friends over to my house for girls’ night and paying for a cooking class in my kitchen. We drink a little wine, learn to cook some exotic food together and feel way happier afterward. YouTube is a cheap substitute when you want to learn a new recipe, eat delicious comfort food and show off for friends.

Hobbies are good for your physical brain and your emotional wellbeing. They protect your mental health and lower stress. And when you're happier, it benefits your entire body, from your immune system to your blood pressure!

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What Is A Jade Roller And Do They Actually Work?

Have you ever seen someone roll a green, elongated roller across their face and wondered what in the world they were doing? I have! So I decided to look up the practice and discovered that the person was using a jade roller. This is one of the newer beauty trends circulating, and my first reaction was to laugh at it.

But then I remembered that I used to laugh at micro-needling too, until I found out it’s an effective way to improve skin tone, reduce the appearance of fine lines, and improve acne scars. Now I utilize this skin treatment every month or so to improve the appearance of my skin.

So I decided to look more into jade rollers and how they work. Here’s what I found out about the surprising skin benefits of this weird-looking beauty tool.

What a Jade Roller Is and Its Purported Benefits

A jade roller is a hand-held device that’s made with a jade (stone) roller that’s usually elongated in shape. The jade roller is cold and hard and is intended to roll gently across the face. Jade has roots in ancient Eastern and Chinese civilizations, when the people believed the stone itself had healing properties. Modern jade-rolling isn’t based on the idea that the stone itself can heal (which is why you sometimes see rose quartz rollers instead of jade). Instead, the idea behind jade rolling is to use certain massage rolling techniques to improve the skin.

The claimed benefits of jade rolling include:

  • Reduction of inflammation and puffiness

  • Improved lymphatic drainage

  • Boosted blood circulation to the skin

These benefits may in turn lead to improved skin tightness and overall health. But to get maximum benefits from this product, it’s important to use it correctly.

How To Use a Jade Roller

Simply rolling a jade roller randomly on your face probably won’t give you the benefits you want. Instead, you need to follow a pattern of rolling to improve lymph node drainage and reduce inflammation. Here’s a step-by-step guide for using a jade roller the right way.


  1. Consider cooling your jade roller in the refrigerator overnight to get maximum anti-inflammatory benefits from its use.

  2. Cleanse your face first. You don’t want to use your jade roller on a dirty face (gross!)

  3. Moisturize with a gentle hydrating moisturizer.

  4. Place the larger end of your jade roller on your chin, then gently roll it towards your ear across your jawline. Repeat this process in the same spot up to six times.

  5. Move the larger end of your jade roller up from your jaw to your lower cheek and roll gently towards your ear. Roll in the same spot up to six times.

  6. Next, move the large roller to the middle of your forehead. Pressing gently, roll toward the side of your head, repeating six times before moving to the other side of the forehead.

  7. Flip the roller over and use the smaller end to very carefully roll from the inner corner of the undereye to the outer corner. Repeat up to 10 times then follow the same pattern on the other undereye.

  8. Repeat the undereye process with the brows.

Follow these steps regularly to get the best results from your jade roller sessions. You’ll probably notice that not only will your skin start to look less puffy, but you’ll also look forward to how relaxed you feel after each jade rolling session. To see your progress over time, you may want to take a photo before you start jade rolling, then take another photo after you’ve used a jade roller for a few weeks. You may be surprised by the results!

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5 Of The Biggest Coffee Myths Debunked!

For a long time, coffee was a guilty pleasure. Now, you can raise your head proudly and tell the whole world that you love coffee! Don't let these five coffee myths stop you from enjoying a cup of dark and delicious java.

Myth: Coffee Dehydrates You

Drinking more water is always a good thing, but your morning cup of joe isn’t responsible for dehydration. Coffee is a mild diuretic, which can make you go to the bathroom more, but the effect is so slight that it doesn’t make a noticeable difference. In case you were wondering, the water in coffee does count toward your goal of 2 liters of water per day.

Myth: Coffee Isn’t Healthy for You

Coffee is rich in antioxidants, nutrients that help protect your body. Many people get more antioxidants from their daily dose of coffee than from fruits and veggies!

All of these antioxidants can add up to major health benefits. People who drink coffee regularly have a far lower risk of many diseases:

  • Heart disease
  • Liver problems
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Parkinson’s disease
  • Alzheimer’s disease and dementia

Plus, caffeine from coffee can increase your metabolism and help you burn more fat from exercise. Coffee can improve your energy level, alertness, memory and mood!

That said, you can have too much of a good thing. Excess caffeine can raise your blood pressure. How much is OK? Stick with two to five cups a day and you’ll be fine.

Myth: Dark Roast Has More Caffeine Than Light Roast

Dark roast coffee has a stronger flavor, so it must be higher in caffeine, right? Wrong. Actually, light roasts usually have a bit more caffeine ounce for ounce because the beans are smaller.

Myth: Coffee Is Addictive

Some people have given up drinking coffee because family members say the person is “addicted.” Honestly, this one gets me upset. Comparing coffee to other addictive substances is a real stretch of the imagination. There’s no reason to feel guilty for liking coffee (or dark chocolate or other perfectly natural foods with caffeine).

Why the whole “addicted” shtick? Caffeine is a stimulant, so it can technically produce a tiny amount of physical dependence. If you stop drinking coffee abruptly, you may get a headache or have trouble concentrating for a few days. That’s it.

On the other hand, addiction to alcohol or opioids requires professional rehabilitation and has life-threatening health risks. There’s just no point of comparison between those things and a harmless cup of coffee.

Myth: The Freezer Is the Best Place To Store Coffee

You bought a few bags of your favorite coffee beans from a store you only visit every few months. You want to keep that oh-so-irresistible aroma smelling fresh. Where should you store the beans? Not in your freezer!

For the freshest coffee, keep those magical beans in a cool, dry place. Your freezer may be cool, but it’s not dry. Freezers have a lot of moisture. They can strip your coffee of its delightful freshness and ruin its flavor with weird smells.

The best place to keep coffee beans is in an airtight container in your cupboard. Give each bag its own container and enjoy rich, intense flavors for months!

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Understanding “Clean Beauty” In The Cosmetics Industry

Natural, organic, chemical-free; all are terms used to describe cosmetics brands at one time or another. However, it wasn’t until companies started labeling their products as clean that consumers jumped aboard the trend.

The consumer interest is shocking because there is no real definition of the term “clean” when used in cosmetics, and there is no regulatory authorization needed to advertise products in such a way. Yet, for some reason, consumers have put complete faith in these supposed “clean” beauty products and brands. The question: is there any real merit to these brands and the growing “clean” trend?

What Does “Clean” Mean

As stated, there is no regulatory definition when using the term “clean” on beauty products. However, according to industry leaders, the term refers to beauty products that might incorporate safe synthetics but favor natural ingredients.

This is a significant shift from the chemical-free and natural cosmetics of the past. Before, there seemed to be a consensus that chemicals were bad, even when science suggested otherwise. Today, it appears that beauty brands are accepting the science that some synthetics are safe for people and the planet.

There are still several ingredients that most brands stay away from, including formaldehyde-releasing agents and parabens. In other words, producers tend to shy away from ingredients with a controversial past, but even that is not definitive because not every brand agrees on the dangers of specific ingredients.

The only entity that can help clarify the “clean” movement is the Food and Drug Administration. Unfortunately, the FDA does not have a definition or rules pertaining to the term. Additionally, under current regulations, a cosmetics company is not required to test or seek preapproval for the majority of its ingredients, further blurring the lines of what is or isn’t “clean.”

The Motivation Behind the Clean Movement

In recent years, consumers have become increasingly aware of the number of chemicals they expose themselves to on a daily basis, especially in the United States. Currently, the U.S. only bans or restricts 11 chemicals in cosmetics as opposed to the EU, which bans approximately 1,300.

The growing awareness has led to an increased demand for so-called clean cosmetics, which most brands were happy to oblige. Unfortunately, without the support of the FDA or other regulatory agencies, cosmetics brands can still use a vast amount of chemicals, even in “clean” products.

While most popular brands likely act in good faith, the lack of definition and regulation still presents a significant problem for overtly trusting consumers, especially when bombarded with a growing pool of profit-motivated competition.

The cosmetic and beauty industry is a $19 billion market, and that number is only expected to grow. While no one argues that cosmetic companies have a right to earn a profit, there is hesitancy to support the “clean” claims and misleading advertising campaigns.

Consumers have a right to be informed about what they are applying to the skin, especially when the average woman uses a minimum of 11 skincare and makeup products per day. While the beauty industry is a for-profit industry, it is crucial that the U.S. government, like other governments, steps up and begins regulating chemicals and defining terms within the cosmetics industry.

What do you think of the “clean” beauty movement? Do you think the U.S. government should play a more significant role?