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  • What I Read: April 2023

    What I Read: April 2023


    April was all about reading books by authors I already knew and loved. I think each of these books would be a great choice to pack for a long weekend or a day at the beach this summer.

    The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin

    After loving Gabrielle’s most recent book Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow I was curious to read some of her previous books.

    Quick Plot: A.J Fikry’s life isn’t what he thought it would be in his late 30s. He’s the owner of a struggling bookstore on a cozy island and mourning the death of his beloved wife. When an unexpected delivery arrives at the bookstore, A.J.’s life is completely changed.

    My Thoughts: I wanted to love this book more than I did. It had all the right elements: A cozy island location, a bookstore, and the makings of a heartwarming story. But something about it just didn’t hit for me and it dragged on for a pretty short book. This also might’ve been my own life busyness while I was reading this book, though.

    What I loved is Zevin’s glorious ability to develop incredible characters. and how this book talked about books and people who loved books.

    If Tomorrow and Tomorrow and Tomorrow is a love letter to video games, this book is a love letter to books and bookstores. And for that, I love this book.

    My Rating: 3.5/5 Stars ★

    📚

    Romantic Comedy by Curtis Sittenfeld

    CW: Early pandemic days.

    I remember loving Curtis Sittenfeld’s book Prep back in high school and was curious to read her take on the rom-com genre.

    Quick Plot: Sally is a writer for a late-night sketch comedy show (think SNL). It seems all the average-looking, dorky, men she works with are constantly dating women far more attractive and successful than them… but the reverse of an average woman with a hot guy never seems to happen. She then meets Noah, the mega-famous pop star who is the guest host on the show this week. What follows is an unexpected romance between two unlikely lovers.

    My Thoughts: As I said, I was curious how Curtis Sittenfeld would do a rom-com. The answer? It’s smart, full of great characters, and takes some risks when it comes to form. I don’t want to give away too much as I think it’s some of the fun of the book but the book is in 3 sections and the middle bit really took me by surprise.

    While the genre of rom-com is ultimately predictable, I liked that this book felt surprisingly unpredictable in how the story was told. Would be a great book to read on the beach this summer.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars ★

    📚

    Happy Place by Emily Henry

    Oh, this book. I’m not gonna lie, Emily Henry’s books can be a bit hit miss for me so I wasn’t sure where I’d land with this one. If you’re looking for a light and fun rom-com, this ain’t it. But if you’re in the mood for a romance with big emotions that will gut you, this is for you.

    Quick Plot: Harriet and Wyn broke up 5 months ago. But no one in their life knows. Now they have to pretend to still be together while stuck on a vacation with their close group of friends.

    My thoughts: Even though I read a lot of romance I can sometimes find the genre too saccharine and fake. As a romance centered around a breakup, this felt so much more grounded and rooted in reality. The book is raw and tender in how it talks about the complexities of break-ups. I found myself sobbing at various points from quotes that just felt so damn relatable.

    It was a refreshing take on romance and the fake dating trope. I also really appreciated the subplot about how friendships change and evolve in your 30s.

    Where it fell *slightly* flat for me is some of the lines just made my skin crawl with how cringe-y they felt. The resolution also seemed really simple for how big I thought the problem would be.

    All in all, though I loved the journey I had with this book. It takes the cake as my favorite Emily Henry book.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars ★

    📚

    The Daydreams by Laura Hankin

    When I first heard the plot of this book I *knew* I was going to love it…

    Quick Plot: In the early 2000s, Kat, Liana, Summer, and Noah were the stars of a super popular teen TV show. Think Hannah Montannah at it’s peak. The show ended in a major scandal, but now 13 years later the four stars have been asked to come back together for a reunion show.

    And of course, all of their secrets from the past start to come out…

    My thoughts: It is now my mission in life to make everyone fall in love with this book. It’s *such* a delight. It’s got 2000’s nostalgia, juicy drama, and some very unexpected turns. There was one part that SHOCKED me with how brilliant the twist was.

    Throughout the book, I felt like I was reading the behind-the-scenes gossip of a TV show that actually existed. It just felt so real and fully fleshed out. Definitely Laura Hankin’s best book yet, and I say that having fully enjoyed her other novels.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 ★



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  • What Are Adaptogens, and Why Do They Matter?

    What Are Adaptogens, and Why Do They Matter?


    What Are Adaptogens, and Why Do They Matter?

    We often hear about adaptogens in wellness conversations, but many people are still unclear about what they are and how they benefit us. These natural wonders are more than just a buzzword—they are powerful tools for managing stress and promoting long-term health.

    What Are Adaptogens?

    Adaptogens are a unique class of herbs and natural substances that help the body adapt to various physical, emotional, and environmental stressors. They work by stabilizing the body’s stress response and enhancing resilience to challenges over time.

    Unlike quick fixes like stimulants, which provide short-lived energy at the expense of depleting your reserves, adaptogens work to restore balance. They help regulate cortisol (your main stress hormone), support adrenal gland function, and promote overall vitality. Adaptogens are particularly valued for their ability to support the body without causing over-activation or crashes.

    Key Benefits of Adaptogens

    1. Stress Management
      Adaptogens regulate the release of cortisol and other stress hormones, helping your body stay balanced during difficult times. By mitigating the effects of chronic stress, they help reduce symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and even physical tension.
    2. Improved Energy and Stamina
      Unlike stimulants, adaptogens provide sustainable energy by improving your body’s ability to respond to stress. They enhance endurance and energy levels without causing jitters or energy crashes, making them ideal for managing fatigue during a demanding day.
    3. Boosted Immune Function
      Adaptogens strengthen the immune system by modulating its response to stress and illness. This means they can make you less susceptible to colds, flu, and other infections, while also helping the body recover more effectively after being sick.
    4. Mental Clarity and Focus
      Adaptogens reduce brain fog and enhance focus by stabilizing stress-related cognitive dysfunction. They help increase mental alertness and improve your ability to concentrate, especially during periods of intense stress or fatigue.
    5. Hormonal Balance
      Adaptogens support the endocrine system by improving communication between hormones. They can help regulate functions like sleep, appetite, and mood. Women often use them to help manage menstrual cycle irregularities or menopause-related hormone shifts.
    6. Reduced Fatigue
      Chronic stress can leave you physically and mentally drained. Adaptogens work to boost your body’s tolerance for stress while aiding recovery. This makes them highly effective in combating burnout and enhancing physical stamina.
    7. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
      Many adaptogens have anti-inflammatory compounds that reduce inflammation in the body, promoting better overall health and lowering the risk of developing chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and arthritis.
    8. Mood Stabilization
      Adaptogens can enhance mood by promoting feelings of calm and balance. They have a soothing effect on the nervous system, helping reduce anxiety and fostering a more stable emotional state.

    The following are some of the most popular and widely used adaptogens:

     

    1. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Reduces stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels.
      • Supports relaxation and better sleep.
      • Boosts energy, endurance, and overall vitality.
      • Enhances cognitive function and memory.
    • Best For: Chronic stress, insomnia, low energy, and those seeking a calming adaptogen.

     

    1. Rhodiola Rosea
    • Key Benefits:
      • Enhances physical stamina and endurance.
      • Boosts mental clarity, focus, and cognitive performance.
      • Reduces symptoms of fatigue, especially mental fatigue.
      • Helps combat mild depression and supports emotional resilience.
    • Best For: Busy individuals, athletes, and those dealing with mental burnout or fatigue.

     

    1. Holy Basil (Tulsi)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Reduces stress and promotes a sense of calm.
      • Supports immune function and helps the body resist illness.
      • Helps regulate blood sugar levels and improve metabolic health.
      • Provides anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
    • Best For: Stress management and those looking for a gentle adaptogen with immune-boosting effects.

     

    1. Reishi Mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Promotes relaxation and helps with restful sleep.
      • Supports immune system regulation and overall immune health.
      • Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory and helps reduce allergies.
      • Aids longevity and promotes detoxification.
    • Best For: People seeking a calming adaptogen with immune-boosting properties.

     

    1. Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Enhances energy, stamina, and physical performance.
      • Balances hormones and supports reproductive health (for both men and women).
      • Boosts libido and improves fertility.
      • Helps combat mood swings and mild depression.
    • Best For: Those needing hormonal support, an energy boost, or libido enhancement.

     

    1. Ginseng
    • Panax Ginseng (Asian Ginseng):
      • Stimulates energy and enhances focus.
      • Improves mental clarity, memory, and cognitive function.
      • Boosts immune function and supports resilience to illness.
      • Aids in combating physical and mental fatigue.
    • Siberian Ginseng (Eleuthero):
      • A milder, gentler form of ginseng that enhances stamina and physical performance.
      • Supports stress management and immune system health.
    • Best For: Energy enhancement, mental sharpness, and those battling exhaustion.

     

    1. Schisandra Berry (Schisandra chinensis)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Improves concentration and mental focus.
      • Enhances physical endurance and performance.
      • Protects the liver and supports detoxification.
      • Helps regulate the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety.
    • Best For: Individuals needing mental sharpness and liver support.

     

    1. Cordyceps Mushroom
    • Key Benefits:
      • Boosts physical energy and athletic performance.
      • Enhances oxygen utilization in the body.
      • Supports adrenal function and resilience to stress.
      • Acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
    • Best For: Athletes, active individuals, and those recovering from physical exhaustion.
    1. Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Supports adrenal health and energy levels.
      • Helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
      • Aids digestion and reduces inflammation in the gut.
      • Combats fatigue and supports hormone balance.
    • Best For: People with adrenal fatigue or those seeking digestive and hormonal support.

     

    1. Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus)
    • Key Benefits:
      • Balances hormones and supports female reproductive health.
      • Helps alleviate symptoms of PMS and menopause.
      • Supports digestive health and acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.
      • Boosts immunity and promotes overall well-being.
    • Best For: Women looking for hormonal and reproductive support

     Many adaptogens are available in powders, capsules, teas, or tinctures. You can easily incorporate them into smoothies, coffee, or tonics. They work best when taken consistently over time rather than as an immediate solution.

    Adaptogens are nature’s stress balancers, offering a sustainable way to handle the pressures of modern life while supporting your body’s natural processes. If you’re seeking tools to enhance energy, focus, and overall well-being, adaptogens can be a gentle yet powerful addition to your wellness routine.

    The post What Are Adaptogens, and Why Do They Matter? appeared first on Total Gym Pulse.



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  • What Is a Good Bench Press Weight For a 15 Year Old?

    What Is a Good Bench Press Weight For a 15 Year Old?


    Is my bench press good for a 15 year old?

    Often times people get occupied in trying to figure out if there lift is good for their age, weight etc. It is important to try not to get caught up in this (unless you are a competetive powerlifter). Your goal should be to focus on improving from where you currently are at.

    There are 4 major factors which will help you to improve your bench press or any lift!

    What factors will help improve your bench press?

    The following factors will help you imrove your bench press and get stronger!

    • Progressive Overload
    • Form Improvement
    • Nutrition

    • Rest

    Progressive Overload

    Simply put progressive overload is increasing your total work volume over time. Volume is sets x reps x weight. There are multiple ways to improve your volume which include doing more sets, doing more reps or when ready increasing the weight.

    Form Improvement

    Especially with compound movements like squats, bench and deadlifts improving form will correlate to higher numbers. Focus on creating a consistent setup, and mainting tension throughout the whole lift.

    The video below will show you how to setup your bench press for strength training!

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zvWZRodXqCU

    Nutrition

    It is important to make sure you are getting the right balance of macronutriens. You need fuel to workout and enough protein to aid in your recovery. Check out the article Nutrition For Powerlifters for more insights.

    Rest

    Rest is huge! Furthermroe, rest is one of the biggest factors when it comes to maximizing recovery from workouts. Try to aim for 7-9 hours of sleep a night. A lot of professional athletes prioritize sleep above all else.





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  • What I Read: May and June 2023

    What I Read: May and June 2023


    As always I’m a bit late with recapping some recent reads. I’ve started reading a mix of physical book and audiobooks. I am terrible about reading non-fiction with my eyes — I need plot! But on audiobook? I’m starting to really enjoy it! For audiobooks I’ve been using Libby through my library and Libro.fm to support local bookstores. I’ve noted which is which in the recap as they are a bit of a different experience for me personally…

    Meet Me At the Lake by Carley Fortune

    One sentence plot: 10 years after spending one magical day together, Fern and Will reunite in an attempt to save the struggling lakeside resort Fern now owns.

    One sentence review: I loved a book that makes my heart ache like this one and cried during the final chapter because I didn’t want it to end.

    Read this book if: You love: Carley Fortune’s first book Every Summer After, Dirty Dancing (omg the resort vibes!), and an emotional second chance romance that’s SO much more than a romance.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

     

    Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros

    One sentence plot: Violet Sorrengail attempts to survive the brutal first year as a dragon rider at Basgiath War College.

    One sentence review: I’m not typically a fantasy reader, but this very hyped-up book sucked me in from the start and I felt SO invested in Violet and emotionally attached to bunch of dragons.

    Read this book if: You’re typically a romance reader (this book gets very steamy!) but curious about something that’s fantasy.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

     

    Yellowface by R.F. Kuang

    One sentence plot: After her friend Athena passes away, author June Hayward reworks a manuscript of Athena’s and passes it off as her own… which causes a chain of bad events.

    One sentence review: I was a bit iffy on this book at times but ended up really enjoying the twisty ride of this almost thriller meets satire of the publishing industry.

    Read this book if: You’re in the mood for something biting and satirical… and/or work in the book industry.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars

     

    Same Time Next Summer by Annabel Monaghan

    One sentence plot: Sam returns to her family’s beach house to look at a wedding venue only to run into the guy that absolutely broke her heart as a teen.

    One sentence review: I couldn’t have loved this book more as it mixes so many of my favorite things: second chance romance, dreamy beach setting, dual timelines, and complicated drama.

    Read this book if: You loved Every Summer After or are looking for something to fill your Summer I Turned Pretty craving after season 2 ends.

    My Rating: 5/5 Stars

     

    Imogen, Obviously by Becky Albertalli

    One sentence plot: Imogen has always considered herself to be hopelessly straight but a great ally to her queer friends… that is until she visits her best friends at college and starts to feel a spark with a new friend there.

    One sentence review: I found this book to be such an addicting read (I read in in less than 24 hours) and so appreciated the great characters and the nuanced conversations on queer identity.

    Read this book if: You want to sink your teeth into a book you’ll read in one sitting.

    My Rating: 5/5 Stars

     

    Audiobooks:

    Year of Yes by Shonda Rhimes

    I have to admit, I haven’t watched anything by Shonda Rhimes… except maybe Crossroads as a teen? So, I’m probably not the best audience for her book that talks about the year she decided to start staying YES to things that scare her. With that in mind I’d say I enjoyed this book but didn’t love it the way I know some people do.

     

    Yearbook by Seth Rogen

    I’m a big fan of Seth Rogen — Knocked up is still one of my all-time favorite comedies. It was really cool to hear more about Seth Rogen’s childhood in Vancouver and his early launch into fame thanks to Freaks in Geeks. This book is SO fun as an audiobook as it features an elaborate cast of characters and Seth Rogen narrating the whole thing. I really enjoyed it.

     

    The Greatest Love Story Ever Told by Megan Mullaly and Nick Offerman

    I was really curious what a book by power-couple Megan Mullaly and Nick Offerman would be like. It’s of course very funny at times and a very interesting look into their relationship and how they got together. If you’re not super invested in one or both of them it’s probably not worth your time, but I found the book to be a funny, light-heated, listen.



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  • What Is The Best Whey Protein Powder For Muscle Growth?

    What Is The Best Whey Protein Powder For Muscle Growth?


    selective photo of brown powder on stainless spoon

    What is Whey Protein Powder?

    Whey protein powder is a popular supplement for those looking to build muscle and improve their physical fitness. There are so many options on the market. This can make it difficult to determine which whey protein powder is best for your specific needs. Lucky for you, we’ll take a closer look at the best whey protein powders for muscle growth.

    Are you struggling to decide which protein powder to invest in? Don’t scratch your head too hard, you can’t go wrong with most reputable brands. Here is a great list to reduce your stress.

    Top 5 Whey Protein Powders

    1. Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard 100% Whey: This protein powder is a classic choice for many bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts. Additionally, with 24g of protein per serving and a range of delicious flavors. It’s no wonder that Gold Standard is one of the best-selling whey protein powders on the market.

    2. MusclePharm Combat Protein Powder: This whey protein powder is formulated to help support muscle growth and recovery. Plus, with a blend of whey isolate, whey concentrate, and micellar casein. MusclePharm Combat provides a sustained release of protein throuought the day for optimal muscle-building benefits.
    3. Dymatize ISO 100: This ultra-pure whey protein isolate is a great option for those who are lactose intolerant or looking for a low-carb option. With 25g of protein per serving and a range of delicious flavors, Dymatize ISO 100 is a top choice for many fitness enthusiasts. Personally a lot of whey protein powders upset my stomach. This has been a great alternative that is easy on my digestive system!
    4. BSN Syntha-6: This whey protein powder is formulated with a blend of 6 different protein sources, including whey concentrate, whey isolate, casein, and egg white protein. BSN Syntha-6 provides a sustained release of protein to help support muscle growth and recovery.

    5. Cellucor Cor-Performance Whey: This whey protein powder is formulated with high-quality whey protein concentrate and isolate, and is designed to help support muscle growth and recovery. Furthermore, with 24g of protein per serving and a range of delicious flavors, Cellucor Cor-Performance Whey is a popular choice among bodybuilders and fitness enthusiasts.

    Try and get you protein needs from food first. If you are struggling to get enough protein then supplementing with Whey protein is a great option.

    In conclusion, there are many great whey protein powders on the market that can help support muscle growth and recovery. When choosing a whey protein powder, it’s important to consider factors such as protein quality, protein per serving, and flavor. The options listed above are all excellent choices for those looking to build muscle and improve their physical fitness.

    Please note views expressed in this article may or may not reflect the opinions of Kafui Fitness





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  • What I Read: July 2023

    What I Read: July 2023


    Here’s what I read this July

    The Five-Star Weekend by Elin Hilderbrand

    Every summer I look forward to Elin Hilderbrand’s newest book. I thought this one was fun premise, the premise is that a blogger gathers a group of her closest friends for a special weekend together in Nantucket after her husband passes away. It took a little for things to get going as there’s a big cast of characters and everything takes place over one weekend. I still enjoyed it… and still dream of going to Nantucket for my own little five-star weekend.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars

     

    On Fire Island by Jane L. Rosen

    I will gobble up any book that takes place on Fire Island. This one in particular is an absolute gem. While the premise is a bit sad, a woman passes away at age 37 but gets to spend one last summer looking over her husband and loved ones, I found it to be really heart-warming and a unique take on death. I especially loved all the characters, it’s an eclectic crew that comes together despite their differences every summer.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

     

    And Don’t F*ck It Up! by Maria Elena Fernandez

    I listened to this oral history of RuPaul’s Drag Race as an audiobook. It’s got interviews with RuPaul, various producers, judges, and contestants over the years.

    As a HUGE fan of RuPaul’s Drag Race, I so enjoyed this deep dive into the show and how it came to be. It’s full of great little trivia bits and I think even super fans will find something new. My only complaint is that the audiobook is read by one person. While I’m sure it would’ve been impossible to round up everyone that gave an interview for the book, at times I found it confusing all coming from the same voice.

     

    The Gay Best Friend by Nicolas Didomizio

    I thought this book was super fun. It’s a little bit of romance but is more so focused on the complicated friendship dynamics between the gay main character and is best friends that are a straight couple. It’s laugh-out-loud funny at times but also has some very tender moments.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars

     

    Some Other Now by Sarah Everett

    I’ve been on the hunt for books that *feel* like The Summer I Turned Pretty. This book has some similarities — takes place over the summer, there are two brothers, their mom is a motherly figure to the main female, and it’s got some big feels. Something about it missed the mark for me, though. I usually love dual timelines but this one felt like it took forever to get going. I also thought there’d be more summer vibes and it just wasn’t there for me. I did enjoy where it ended up, just wish it didn’t take so long to get there.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars



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  • What You Need to Know » Go Fitness PRO

    What You Need to Know » Go Fitness PRO


    Healthy Upcoming Diet Trends in 2025: As we move toward 2025, the world of nutrition is evolving rapidly. People are becoming more conscious of their health, and diet trends are shifting toward sustainable, nutrient-dense, and personalized approaches. Whether you’re looking to optimize your health, lose weight, or simply improve your overall well-being, staying on top of emerging trends can help you make informed choices. Here are five diet trends expected to make waves in 2025.

    Healthy Upcoming Diet Trends in 2025

    Healthy Upcoming Diet Trends in 2025: Personalized Nutrition Based on DNA and Microbiome

    In 2025, one of the most exciting developments in the world of diet is the rise of personalized nutrition, where your specific dietary needs are determined based on your DNA and microbiome (the community of microorganisms living in your gut). The idea is that by analyzing your genetic makeup and gut bacteria, nutrition experts can create a tailored plan that works best for your body.

    Personalized diets can help optimize metabolism, prevent chronic diseases, and improve energy levels. Companies are already offering DNA and microbiome testing kits that provide insights into how your body processes different types of foods. Based on these results, you can adjust your diet to fit your genetic profile—whether that’s focusing on certain nutrients, avoiding allergens, or enhancing digestion.

    As more research is done in this area, personalized nutrition is expected to become even more accessible and refined, helping individuals take a science-backed approach to their health.

    Plant-Based and Regenerative Foods

    While plant-based eating has been a growing trend for several years, 2025 will see a shift toward not just plant-based diets but regenerative food systems. Regenerative agriculture focuses on farming practices that restore the health of the land, improve biodiversity, and absorb carbon from the atmosphere. This approach is not just about what you eat but how it’s produced.

    As more people become concerned about the environmental impact of food production, the demand for regenerative and sustainable plant-based foods will rise. In addition to fruits, vegetables, and grains, we’ll see a growing emphasis on products made from regenerative crops like quinoa, hemp, and seaweed. These foods are not only packed with nutrients but are grown in ways that are better for the planet.

    If you’re looking to eat more sustainably, expect to see more regenerative food brands and eco-friendly farming practices entering the mainstream in 2025.

    Healthy Upcoming Diet Trends in 2025: Functional Foods and Beverages

    In 2025, functional foods—those that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition—will become even more popular. These foods and beverages are enriched with nutrients that can support specific areas of health, like immunity, brain function, digestion, and even mood.

    Expect to see more products incorporating adaptogens, probiotics, and nootropics. Adaptogens, like ashwagandha and rhodiola, are herbs known for their ability to reduce stress and promote balance in the body. Probiotics and prebiotics, essential for gut health, are already commonly found in yogurt and kefir but will increasingly be added to a wider range of foods, such as snacks, cereals, and even pasta.

    Nootropics—also known as “smart drugs”—are compounds that enhance cognitive function, and they’ll likely appear in more foods and beverages designed to boost mental clarity and focus. Look out for functional smoothies, protein bars, and even coffees that help support brain health and reduce stress.

    Low-Inflammatory Diets

    Chronic inflammation is linked to many health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and autoimmune disorders. In 2025, low-inflammatory diets will become more mainstream, with a focus on eating foods that reduce inflammation and support overall health.

    The key components of a low-inflammatory diet include foods that are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber, while avoiding refined sugars, processed foods, and unhealthy fats. Foods such as leafy greens, berries, fatty fish like salmon, and nuts will take center stage. There will also be a growing emphasis on anti-inflammatory spices like turmeric, ginger, and garlic.

    Additionally, we’ll see more people adopting diets that support a healthy gut microbiome, as emerging research continues to highlight the link between gut health and inflammation. A low-inflammatory diet can help reduce chronic pain, improve mood, and lower the risk of developing various diseases.

    Healthy Upcoming Diet Trends in 2025

    The Flexitarian Approach

    While vegan and vegetarian diets will continue to have their place in 2025, the flexitarian diet is expected to rise in popularity. The flexitarian approach encourages eating mostly plant-based foods but allows for occasional meat consumption. It offers a more flexible and balanced way to reduce meat intake without cutting it out entirely.

    This diet is ideal for people who want to reap the benefits of plant-based eating—such as improved heart health, weight management, and a reduced environmental impact—without committing fully to a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle. Flexitarian diets will likely feature plant-forward meals, but with an emphasis on quality and sustainability, meaning more ethically sourced, grass-fed, or free-range meat and seafood when consumed.

    The flexibility of the flexitarian diet makes it an attractive option for people who want to embrace healthier eating without the rigidity of strict dietary restrictions.



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  • What I Read: September 2023

    What I Read: September 2023


    The Rachel Incident by Caroline O’Donoghue

    This book is quiet and took me a little to get into, but once I was there WOW, I loved where it went. It’s about a college student in Ireland, her best guy friend, and a complicated situation they find themselves in. This book is a great pick for fans of Normal People and Adelaide.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars

     

    The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin

    This book is a guide to living a happier life. I first read this book in 2011 and I’m *convinced* it changed my life. I decided to do a reread via audiobook and enjoyed revisiting it. The tips throughout are simple by powerful.

     

    The Nine Lives of Rose Napolitano by Donna Freitas

    I enjoyed this book but also have complicated feelings on it. It’s about a woman who doesn’t want to have kids and follows 9 different versions of how her life turns out. I appreciate the exploration of different ways motherhood can look, but if you’re looking for a book that affirms a child-free lifestyle this book ain’t it.

     

    Expiration Dates by Rebecca Serle

    Out on 3/5/24

    Rebecca Serle has done it again. Every time Daphne meets a new man, she gets a slip of paper that tells her how long the relationship will last. When the paper for her new beau Jake turns out to be blank, it’s time for her to figure out if this is what the universe wants for her — and if the secret she’s holding onto could ruin everything. I devoured this book in 24 hours and it turned me into an emotional puddle. I loved it.



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  • What I Read: October 2023

    What I Read: October 2023


    The Dead Romantics by Ashley Poston

    After loving Ashley Poston’s most recent book THE SEVEN YEAR SLIP I was super curious to read her first romance.

    This book is a unique twist on the romance genre. Florence Day is the ghostwriter for one of the biggest romance writers. She can also talk to ghosts… and ends up falling in love with a ghost who is also the editor of the book she’s currently working on. All this is going on while she’s also back in her hometown mourning the death of her father who owned the town’s funeral home.

    I appreciated that this book went in some directions I was NOT expecting, but it felt like it could’ve been about 50 pages shorter. Having read THE SEVEN YEAR SLIP too, I feel like the two books have a lot of similarities as they both strongly deal with grief and it started to feel repetitive for me personally.

    My Rating: 4/5 Stars ★

     

    The Woman in Me by Britney Spears

    The memoir everyone is talking about.

    Growing up I was a big Britney Spears fan, but I haven’t followed along too closely with recent news beyond the big headlines. Her memoir is a heartbreaking look at everything she’s been through. In the end, my heart ached for her and it left me thinking about the “price” of fame, especially for women.

    Highly recommend listening to the audiobook which was read by Michelle Williams.

    My Rating: 5/5 Stars ★

     

    Maybe Once, Maybe Twice by Alison Rose Greenberg

    Romances have been a bit hit-miss for me lately, but this one hit. Something about it felt different for me — it’s not too saccharine, it’s complex, and the emotions felt really real.

    It’s about a 35-year-old singer/songwriter on the verge of (finally!) making it big. She had previously made an “if we’re both single at 35” marriage pact with two different guys. One of them is her best friend, Garrett, who she has always had a thing for but the timing just never seemed to work out for them. And then there’s her former camp boyfriend, Asher, who is now a mega-famous actor.

    The book is told in multiple timelines going back and forth between the past with Garret and Asher and Maggie’s present. I was not sure where it was going to go (rare in a romance!) but ended up loving the journey.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars ★



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  • What I Read: November 2023

    What I Read: November 2023


    I read one book in November. Which is a lot less than I usually read. But it was a good one!

    Love, Me by Jessica Saunders

    Comes out on January 16, 2024

    This book was such a delight! Rachel is a lawyer, wife, and mother of two living a relatively normal, although hectic, life in the suburbs. When racy photos of her and her now very famous high school boyfriend leak, her life and marriage get totally thrown for a loop.

    This book is a celebrity-normal person romance AND a second chance romance which are my two favorite tropes. I loved those aspects of it, but what I especially loved was the journey the main character goes on when it comes to who she is and what she wants in life. I can’t wait for everyone to read it when it comes out in January.

    My Rating: 4.5/5 Stars ★



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