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You can make space in your fridge by removing any of these foods. Tomatoes keep their best on the kitchen counter and coffee needs a cool and dry place for storage. Bread can be kept in the freezer but not the refrigerator and onions and potatoes don’t need to take up space in your crisper because any cool, dry storage place will do. Source Link
If yo-yo dieting has your weight going up and down the scale, try these tips to stabilize that number. Eat in moderation and practice mindful eating to be aware of what you’re eating and why. Weigh yourself every day and aim for small changes over time and find ways to reward yourself that don’t involve food. Source Link
There’s a must-have personal care product you should pack for every flight and it’s not hand sanitizer. Experts say a travel-sized bottle of moisturizer can keep skin from drying out fast during your flight. It’s a real problem because the average aircraft has humidity levels of just 10 to 20 percent and that can cause skin discomfort and inflammation. Source Link
How about half a year to a better brain? A study found that six months of moderate exercise, like walking or using a stationary bike improved mental sharpness for older adults who had been slowing down. And researchers say healthy diet changes like eating more fruits and vegetables boosted the brain benefits from moderate exercise. Source Link
When you need to break a bad habit you should consider taking a vacation. Experts say getting out of your normal routine can help because the environmental cues at home that might lead to mindless eating or skipping those chores aren’t there. Seeing new sights may make it easier to achieve your goals. Source Link
If your entire life is on your phone, do this before you hand it over to someone to fix a cracked screen or replace the battery. Log out of all online accounts and delete your browser history and consider doing a complete encrypted backup and a factory reset to protect all your personal information. And look for a reputable repair shop with good online reviews. Source Link_
Need a strategy to beat the holiday season food coma? Nutrition experts say avoid snacking before you eat and take a walk after you finish cooking or after dinner. Go ahead and enjoy those special dishes but use the USDA’s “My Plate” method to have the right mix of all five food groups on your dinner plate. Source Link
Lose all that weight. Pay off those debts. Get married. These are New Year’s resolutions that experts say you should never make because they’re often impossible to achieve. Instead, you could resolve to stop drinking sugary beverages, eat out less and put that money toward credit card debt or pledge to meet new people every month or get help to overcome social anxiety. Source Link
Whether it’s racial, social, political or economic, justice has been on the minds of many Americans in 2018. The editors of the Merriam-Webster Dictionary say “justice” had the most online lookups and is their Word of the Year. Other popular words were “nationalism” and “respect” which spiked in searches after the death of the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. Source Link
If you have visions of leftovers dancing in your head, make sure your fridge is ready to handle the holiday surplus. Set the refrigerator temperature between 33 and 40 degrees and move any raw meat to the bottom shelf to avoid contaminating other foods. And any food that was left out for more than two hours should go into the garbage and not in your refrigerator. Source Link
What are some of the warning signs that you’re about to be hacked? When you respond to emails for contests that you didn’t sign up for or take a phone call that asks you to update your bank or credit card credentials. Another way you’re just begging for hackers to hit you? When you use the same password for everything. Source Link
Prehistoric predators, a Steven King protagonist and a Disney Princess are among the stars of films being honored by the Library of Congress. This year’s inductees into the National Film Registry include “Jurassic Park,” “The Shining” and “Cinderella.” Other films on the registry list for 2018 are Alfred Hitchcock’s “Rebecca,” the musical “On The Town” and “Broadcast News.” Source Link
You can stock your kitchen with helpful gadgets at the office supply store. Those classic orange-handled scissors are great for opening packages and binder clips can seal up food bags. A black sharpie marker can label freezer bags and write on masking tape for plastic containers and a dry erase board can be used to keep a shopping list. Source Link_
Here’s how to craft a perfect response to that caustic office email without risking your job. Open your word processor and take a few minutes to let loose with all your feelings and then save that document to a special folder. Return to the folder later to read the reply and others that you’ve saved to remind you of mistakes that were avoided by not hitting “Send.” Source Link
It’s a question you should never answer if you hear it in a phone call from an unknown number. Scammers will ask “Can you hear me?” to get you to answer “Yes” and a recording of that one word could be used to approve unauthorized charges. Experts say don’t respond and hang up immediately and don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. Source Link
Whether you’re the cook or a guest, you can keep your holiday dinner from busting the scales. If you’re the host, limit the number of food choices to seven or less; try steamed green beans instead of that green bean casserole and swap applesauce for oils in recipes. And guests should remember how uncomfortable it feels to overeat and choose alcohol or dessert, but not both. Source Link
If your dog could talk he might tell you to stop patting him on the head. Animal experts say dogs prefer chin or chest scratches and they don’t like it when you stare directly into their eyes. Dogs usually hate the smell of those cute outfits you make them wear but they love your scent and often will cuddle with a piece of clothing or one of your shoes. Source Link_
You put your heart into the holiday season but don’t take things too far on Christmas Eve. A study found that the night before Christmas had the biggest concentration of emergency calls for heart attacks. This year could be doubly bad because the most common day of the week for heart attacks is Monday. Source Link
If you can remember to eat your vegetables throughout your life you may be able to remember that life even better when you’re older. A 20-year study found that a diet rich in leafy greens, orange and red vegetables, berries and orange juice reduced the risk of memory loss. Experts say you can skip the extra calories in orange juice and get more fiber by eating a whole orange. Source Link
That holiday getaway may need to be nearly a work week long to really leave the job behind. A survey found that it takes the average person four days of vacation to get work off their mind. Eight in ten say they struggle to use all of their vacation time and a third of people admit to feeling guilty about the work they leave behind. Source Link
The annual look at the worst passwords has found some repeat offenders. “123456” and “password” are atop this year’s list of 5 million leaked passwords. Other top offenders include simple number sequences, the keyboard string “querty” “admin,” “iloveyou” and “welcome". And joining the list of the top-25 poor passwords is a famous first name -- “donald.” Source Link
If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, it’s not too late to get that flu shot. The CDC says most of the flu season is still ahead of us but you need to get the shot soon because it can take several weeks to give you maximum protection. Flu activity will increase in most parts of the country after holiday get-togethers and traveling. Source Link
Making the perfect a holiday meal doesn't mean you have to give up healthy eating. Try replacing salt with herbs and spices or add lemon juice or citrus zest for flavor. Use nonfat, plain Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and bake with a half and half mixture of white and whole wheat flour. And substitute unsweetened applesauce for butter in recipes. Source Link
Why don’t we send more thank-you cards? Often because we’re worried about how they’ll be received. A study found that people underestimated how much others appreciate a written “Thank You” and fretted about using the right words to express their gratitude. It’s a loss for both sides because sending thank-you cards can make you feel happier. Source Link_
Food safety isn’t just important for your meals - it also matters when you feed your dog or cat. Pet food can harbor bacteria and you should always wash your hands after handling it. Keep pet food in the original bag and sealed in a plastic container and gather it with a clean scoop and not the bowl. And throw away food that’s been left out if your pet doesn’t eat it. Source Link
The savvy traveler will try some of these tips to make that next flight easier. If you have small children, one parent can board first with carry-ons while the other lets the kids play longer at the gate. Using a fanny pack can give you more room to carry those essentials on board and wear your puffy winter coat that can double as a body pillow. Source Link
Are you fibbing to your physician about those bad habits? You’re not alone. Studies have found that many people often lie to their doctors about certain behaviors like not eating right or not exercising or forgetting to take medication as directed. Experts say it’s hard for your doctor to provide the right care if you’re not being honest with them. Source Link_
How can you make that long weekend feel like a real vacation? Plan ahead for what you want to see and do so you don’t waste time making choices and try something new rather than that same short trip. Don’t check email or do any job work and unplug from social media to focus on what’s happening now. Source Link_
Meal prep using some key ingredients is a great way to save time getting dinner on the table. Look for recipes that use roasted potatoes, hard-boiled eggs or cooked spaghetti. You can make smoothie freezer bags with your favorite ingredients to save time for breakfast and consider adding a meatless day with vegetable and pasta dishes that need less cooking time. Source Link
Sitting for long periods has been labeled a major health risk, but how can you get on your feet more if you have a desk job? Use every coffee break to take a brisk walk through the office or to the building lobby. Twice a day, stand up and do a series of stretches targeting the neck, shoulders, back and legs and wear a fitness tracker that encourages you to take more steps. Source Link
It’s round and holds your food, and it could be key to keeping you from overeating. Nutritionists say using a plate for everything you eat including snacks can help prevent mindless eating and those extra calories. Using smaller plates can also help you eat less because it takes less food to make the plate look full. Source Link
You may want to hold off on the latest system update for your iPhone. Users have reported that iOS 12.1.1 is shutting down cellular data and forcing them to use WiFi to get online. Some say the problem can vary depending on the web site being accessed or the app you’re using. There’s no word on when Apple may have a fix for the problem. Source Link
Now’s the time to avoid year-end money mistakes like forgetting to maximize your tax-free contributions to an IRA or 401-k account, or over-spending on the holidays and assuming you can cover that come January. And if you get a year-end bonus, put it toward paying down debt or building a “rainy day” emergency savings fund. Source Link
A typical brown-bag lunch isn’t much more nutritious than a school lunch, but there are easy ways to improve what you pack. Switch to whole grain bread for sandwiches or try a wrap that makes it easy to sneak in some veggies. Ditch deli meats and use slices of fresh chicken breast or turkey and swap out mayonnaise for mashed avocado. Source Link
It’s health insurance sign-up season and here are some warning signs to help you avoid those shoddy policies. A zero deductible can mean the plan pays a set price per procedure and you cover the rest. Promises that the plan is good anywhere and offers the best coverage are often red flags and be wary of a free quote that triggers a deluge of phone calls and email pitches. Source Link
Don’t blame yourself if you can remember someone’s face but not their name. It’s only human nature. Knowing a face requires recognizing them but remembering a name takes recall and the brain is better at recognition than recall. Studies show the average person can remember about 90 percent of faces but only 70 percent of names. Source Link
Answer these questions first when you want to welcome a new four-legged member to the family. Are you looking for personal companionship or a playmate in a pet? How long will you be away from your pet during the day and who will care for it when you’re gone? And what life changes might affect your ability to keep your pet in years to come? Source Link_
Where you buy your groceries could determine if you’ll have a healthy diet. Research shows that shoppers at specialty markets have better diets than traditional supermarket shoppers while people who shop for convenience fared worse. Even if you can’t afford specialty prices you can shop the sales and buy fresh foods for several meals and freeze some to eat later. Source Link
Before you unbox that new smartphone there are some things you should do with the old one. Back up photos and videos to a cloud service or to a PC, Mac or a thumb drive designed to work with your model. Then make sure your current phone is set for encryption so you can do a full factory reset and wipe it clean after you get the new one. Source Link
America’s pediatricians say you might be better off having your pre-schooler play with the package instead of that latest high-tech toy. The group is endorsing old-fashioned hands-on playthings that young children can enjoy with parents. The doctors say blocks, puzzles and even throwaway cardboard boxes spark imagination and creativity. Source Link
If there’s one last bite of cake left on your plate, can you resist it? Probably not. Research has shown that the “clean plate syndrome” is quite common but usually applies when there’s just a little food left. The habit fuels overeating and you can beat it by starting with smaller portions and then eating slowly. Source Link
Don’t let a popular holiday shopping deal lock you into high-interest debt. Many store credit cards offer no interest on balances that are paid within a certain time, but those charges will be added in full if you miss the payoff deadline by one day or just a few dollars. Store cards can charge interest rates that are double those of regular credit cards. Source Link
It’s a two-step plan to feeling younger as you age. Research has shown that when older adults are more in control of their lives and get more exercise they feel younger and that improves their thinking, overall quality of life and longevity. It’s also good to develop skills to help you cope with the things in life that you can’t control. Source Link
Maybe math has never been your strong suit, but it doesn’t mean your kids have to struggle. You can start them early with counting games like tallying the number of spoons and forks in a drawer, counting items as you unpack groceries, or looking for a certain number on the pages of a book. And resist talking about your dislike of math in front of your child. Source Link
The basement may be your go-to storage spot, but there are a few things that should never be kept downstairs. Rolled up rugs and carpeting are a perfect home for bugs and can absorb moisture and odor. The same goes for wood furniture and upholstered items. And fur and leather clothing, books and toys need to be in sealed containers to prevent damage. Source Link_
What can and can’t improve your credit score? Carrying a credit card balance won’t help but having more available credit will. Closing an unused credit account may hurt if it’s one that’s been part of your credit history for years. And paying a utility bill on time probably won’t help your credit score because those accounts aren’t reported to credit agencies. Source Link_
When you want to pick a charity to make a new donation one way to choose is to look back at this year in your life. For example, if you enjoyed a hiking vacation you could donate to an organization that helps urban youth experience the outdoors. Or if you lost someone to illness this year, you could give to a charity that funds research or raises awareness. Source Link_
The Advent calendar isn’t only a sweet countdown to Christmas for kids. Instead of chocolate surprises, new versions of the holiday favorite for adults offer daily samples of different cheeses, mini bottles of wine or cans of beer. The adult Advent calendars have been flying off the shelves at retailers like Aldi, Target and Costco. Source Link
If you want to make the most of your workday make sure your phone is out of sight. Research has shown that simply being able to see your phone - even if it’s silenced or shut off - can reduce your cognitive ability. That happens because you’re using brain power to actively fight the urge to check that phone. Source Link_
It sounds too good to be true - an afternoon of sitting burns more calories - but a study found that the body uses more energy to keep itself functioning in the late afternoon. The results could point to better ways to incorporate eating and exercise in your day. Early morning and late night are times when the body burns the fewest calories. Source Link
You can avoid a scam by watching how you pay for things that are bought online. Credit and debit cards have strong fraud protection that’s built-in but wiring money, using reloadable cards or gift cards for payment doesn’t have these safeguards. Suspect fraud if you’re asked to pay for something using one of these methods. Source Link
How do you beat the battle of the bulge as a host or a guest at a holiday party? If you’re hosting offer healthy fruit and vegetable dishes or bring a vegetable dish if you’re a guest. And remember that a holiday party shouldn’t be an “all you can eat” challenge. Take smaller first portions and go back for seconds only if you’re still hungry. Source Link_
For the best use of antibiotics, ask about what type is being prescribed. Some that attack a broad spectrum of disease-causing bacteria may not be necessary and could lead to drug resistance. And be sure testing has shown that an antibiotic is needed before it’s prescribed. Source Link
You don’t need a closetful of them, but your feet will thank you if you don’t wear the same shoes every day. That can cause fatigue and pain because you’re always using the same areas of the foot for support and walking. Have a few pairs of comfortable shoes and rotate them throughout the week. Source Link_
Which is the greener choice - buying an artificial Christmas tree or the real thing? The makers of artificial trees say one that’s used for at least five years has less environmental impact than the energy it takes to harvest and transport real trees. Growers say live trees are a renewable resource and buying one every year supports farming and keeps plastic out of landfills. Source Link
It’s easy to eat smarter with these simple tips. Olive oil has less fat but more calories, so coat that cooking pan using an olive oil spray. Winter squash and sweet potatoes are both orange vegetables but squash has the same fiber and half the calories. And a large banana can help you feel full better than a cup of strawberries. Source Link_
If you use shortcuts while texting you can teach your smartphone to turn those snippets into complete words. On an iPhone, you can add to your list of shortcuts under Settings, General, Keyboards and Text Replacement. On an Android phone, you'll find the same feature under Settings, Languages and Personal Dictionary. Source Link
