It is that time of year again when you may be focusing on eating healthier. One way to accomplish this goal is avoiding, as much as possible, ‘empty calories,’ i.e., foods that are high in calories and low in nutrients your body needs to stay healthy.

Naturally, sugar is at the top of the list since it contains no protein, essential fats, vitamins or minerals. In addition to being loaded with calories that go straight to your waistline without giving you any type of nutritional benefit, sugar creates a vicious cycle that can promote weight gain.

Sugar increases your cells’ resistance to insulin – a hormone secreted by your pancreas which helps your body keep sugar levels at their optimum. This resistance may make you crave more carbohydrates and sugar. You then eat more to satisfy the craving, and the cycle starts all over again.

Sugar has also been shown to be highly addictive. Trying to cut back or eliminate it from your diet can create withdrawal symptoms similar to those experienced by people trying to stop using opioids, caffeine or nicotine.

Like other addictive substances, sugar triggers what psychologists call a ‘reward response.’ Simply put, when we eat sugar, we feel good and experience a mild ‘high.’ Once this feeling subsides, we want more sugar to get the feeling back. And the more we eat, the more weight we gain.

Are Artificial Sweeteners the Answer?

You probably remember being a teenager when Tab hit the market, asking consumers, “How Can 1 Calorie Taste So Good?” It, and other sugar-free sodas of the time, seemed to be the dieter’s dream-come-true.

Shortly thereafter though, in 1969, the U.S. government banned Tab’s original sweetener, cyclamate. Then followed warnings that its new sweetener, saccharin, had been found to cause cancer in laboratory animals.

The government later lifted this warning, but questions about the safety of artificial sweeteners have continued to this day. More recently, artificial sweeteners have been linked to everything from developing Alzheimer’s disease to cancer.

One recent study suggested that drinking a can a day of an artificially-sweetened beverage was associated with an almost three-fold increase in developing stroke or dementia compared to people who drank less than one can a week.

The researchers admitted, however, that they could not prove a direct causal link. Despite this caveat, the study was enough to create doubt and concern.

If potential health risks weren’t enough reason to reconsider using artificial sweeteners, new research also suggests that using them could actually promote weight gain.

The very thing you may be eating to prevent weight gain or help you lose weight may actually be making you gain weight. While further study may be necessary in this area, it appears artificial sweeteners may sabotage your attempts to maintain a healthy weight in two ways:

Overcompensation

I like to call my friends out when they order something like a cheeseburger and fries with a diet soda. When I ask why they do this, if they are honest with me, most will say, “So that I can have the cheeseburger.”

The reality is that having a diet soda may save 150 calories while the average cheeseburger-and-fries combination packs over 1,100 calories. The diet soda doesn’t even make a dent.

A Sweet by Any Other Name

Another current theory why artificial sweeteners may be counterproductive to maintaining or losing weight is that our brains read a sweet as a sweet, regardless of its source. Under this hypothesis, our bodies react to the sweetness in artificial sweeteners in much the same way they do to sugar.

The same or similar reward response is triggered, and so we want more sweetener to get the same ‘high’ and the cycle starts all over again.

However, this time sugary sweets are added to the mix because of overcompensation – “I can have this wonderful holiday cookie since I have artificial sweetener in my coffee.”

A Natural Alternative to Sugar

One organic-based sweetener that I have researched, tried and liked is stevia. It is a natural sugar and sweetener substitute that is extracted from the leaves of the plant species Stevia rebaudiana – which is a member of the chrysanthemum family. It is believed to have originated in Paraguay. It has zero calories, no carbohydrates and a glycemic index of zero.

There are generally three main types of stevia you can purchase: green leaf stevia (the least processed option), stevia extracts and altered stevia. You can use stevia to replace sugar in baking. With stevia, a little goes a long way. It is reportedly 100-300 times sweeter than table sugar.

After studying this natural sweetener, the National Institutes for Health (NIH) decided that “although Stevia can be helpful to anyone, there are certain groups who are more likely to benefit from its remarkable sweetening potential. These include diabetic patients, those interested in decreasing caloric intake and children.”

A 2010 study by the NIH found evidence that stevia lowered glucose and insulin levels in both lean and obese people. Another earlier study suggests stevia may help lower cholesterol.

Several studies report stevia is rich in anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants that may help prevent cancer. It may even have antimicrobial properties and help fight bad bugs and infection.

To make sure you are getting the benefits of stevia, you have to be mindful of which stevia products you consider purchasing.

One brand, for example, has been reported to be chemically processed. Others may have sugar mixed in them in order to help mitigate some of the bitterness of natural stevia. So, it’s important to look for “100 percent pure stevia extract” on the label, instead of “stevia powder.”

Stevia may also interact with medications you may be taking, particularly medications you may be taking for diabetes, blood pressure and cancer. Talk to your doctor if you have any health issues and are interested in adding stevia to your diet.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What is your experience with sugar and artificial sweeteners? Have you ever tried to eliminate sugar from your diet? What was your experience? What is your strategy for healthy eating during the holidays? Tell us about it. Please join the conversation.

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

If you’re someone who chooses to hibernate more during the colder months, there’s no better time to start a new project. Whether that’s beginning your tretinoin journey to reduce acne, setting aside more self-care (or self-pleasure) time, or working to increase hair growth on a thinning scalp, we’ve got you covered. Back to the latter: We’re basically pros at this point on finding the highest-rated growth formulas out there, and the Paisle Botanics Biotin Spray is the latest to land on our radar. 

First off, the under-$20 spray has earned a 4.3 approval rating from Amazon shoppers, with over 2,500 five-star ratings to boot. Considering the wide inventory of growth products the retailer carries, this under-the-radar product has made quite an impact for itself. And we’re here for it, especially since it’s incredibly easy to use.

Amazon

Described by the brand as an “instant hair thickening spray,” the formula is able to boost volume in a “matter of seconds.” All you need to do is spray it evenly onto damp hair and blow dry to see your results. While these instantaneous effects are great in a pinch, whether you’ve got a special event or regularly go into an office, we know the people also crave long-term results. Luckily, the spray contains ingredients like biotin and caffeine which target hair follicles that are routinely thinning or falling out and may contribute to fuller, thicker locks overtime. 

While this is a leave-in spray, you won’t find it weighs down your strands in the slightest. It was “carefully crafted to be lightweight” and sans any sticky residue, so you can confidently spray and go about your day. Oh, and it’s perfectly safe to use on color treated hair, too.

RELATED: Ulta’s Huge Skincare Sale Includes Half Off Zitsticka, Murad, CosRX & More

Shoppers of all ages are praising it. “This has been the best product for my hair. So if I can grow some hair when I am 71 years young, you can too,” wrote one.

“My hair was almost completely gone in the front of my head,” shared another. “I have been using the product for about 6 months. I spray it on before I get in the shower. Now the bald spots have new growth. Even my stylist asked me what I was using. I am very happy with results I have experienced after using this product.”

Whenever a professional stylist is intrigued, we can’t help but think a product is the real deal. Shop it for less than $20 on Amazon right now.

Usually,
when anyone writes about the joys of bed, they are thinking of one of two
things: the pleasures of a good night’s sleep or, alternatively, of sex. I am a
great believer in both, but I am not writing about either here.

No,
bed means more than either of these activities.

Taking a Rest

First,
lets face it. As we grow older, we also grow tired. Some days I have plenty of
energy, but some days I have very little. I get out of bed in the morning and
immediately wish I were back there. Or half-way through the day, I need a bit
of a lie-down.

I
find a number of friends also say the same, especially the older ones.

For
the first time since we were of pre-school age, some of us begin to take a nap
– either every day or now and then. I am reluctant to take a proper (sleeping)
nap, because it leaves me unable to get to sleep at night. I envy those who can
do so with impunity.

But
there is nonetheless a great benefit in a rest. I recall, as a small child,
being told I had to spend an hour lying on my bed and was allowed to do
anything except (which I called “be-cept”) reading.

Now,
we can read, we can listen to the radio or to audio books (I favour programmes stored
for this purpose on my iPod).

Or we
can just lie there and think our own thoughts. It is a very peaceful time and
can be very restorative. The trick, of course, is not to fall asleep!

Recent research
seems to suggest that people who take occasional naps have a notably lower risk
of heart-related disease and may live longer. I am not a medical doctor and
cannot comment on this, but I found it interesting.

A Cuddle and a Chat

The
other use of a bed is also restorative, but in a different way. You lie down with
your partner, with no sexual intentions of any kind, and just give each other time
to discuss anything that is on either of your minds.

It
is a good time to review ideas, mull over plans for the future, and just
explore how you are feeling about life in general.

Although
it may result in some general or even particular decisions, it should not feel
purposeful. On the contrary, it is time to let your mind wander over anything,
including your relationship.

Lying
down with someone is a very intimate activity, even when nothing physical is
involved. Being prone on a bed seems to make you let down your guard, so that
you are more willing to talk easily.

Sometimes,
the fact that you can’t actually see each other makes it less intimidating than
sitting at a table or in a living room. It is not surprising that lying down is
the chosen posture for people in some forms of psychotherapy.

These
chats can happen early in the morning, when you are just waking up, or, indeed,
at night before going to sleep. But they can also happen in the middle of the
day, when it feels even more special.

The
older I get, the more I value this form of ‘together’ time.

Other Family Members

Interestingly,
it can also be a time of intimacy with other family members. One grandson, who spends
roughly one night a week at our house, loves to climb into bed with Granddad in
the morning. (Long ago, said Granddad agreed to sleep in the nearby spare room to
allay any worries in the night.)

This
early morning time has become one of many rituals, when they talk about
anything and everything, and is sadly missed if for any reason (like waking up
too late to have the time before school) it is impossible to accommodate.

An Indian woman in my book about grandmothers’ lives also describes such moments with her grandchildren as very special: “You can’t buy that happiness anywhere,” she says.

Let’s Have a Conversation:

How
often do you take non-sleeping naps? Do you mull over issues with a partner
while lying in bed? Have you had such moments with a grandchild? Please share
your experiences with our community.

If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, STYLECASTER may receive an affiliate commission.

If you’re someone who chooses to hibernate more during the colder months, there’s no better time to start a new project. Whether that’s beginning your tretinoin journey to reduce acne, setting aside more self-care (or self-pleasure) time, or working to increase hair growth on a thinning scalp, we’ve got you covered. Back to the latter: We’re basically pros at this point on finding the highest-rated growth formulas out there, and the Paisle Botanics Biotin Spray is the latest to land on our radar. 

First off, the under-$20 spray has earned a 4.3 approval rating from Amazon shoppers, with over 2,500 five-star ratings to boot. Considering the wide inventory of growth products the retailer carries, this under-the-radar product has made quite an impact for itself. And we’re here for it, especially since it’s incredibly easy to use.

Amazon

Described by the brand as an “instant hair thickening spray,” the formula is able to boost volume in a “matter of seconds.” All you need to do is spray it evenly onto damp hair and blow dry to see your results. While these instantaneous effects are great in a pinch, whether you’ve got a special event or regularly go into an office, we know the people also crave long-term results. Luckily, the spray contains ingredients like biotin and caffeine which target hair follicles that are routinely thinning or falling out and may contribute to fuller, thicker locks overtime. 

While this is a leave-in spray, you won’t find it weighs down your strands in the slightest. It was “carefully crafted to be lightweight” and sans any sticky residue, so you can confidently spray and go about your day. Oh, and it’s perfectly safe to use on color treated hair, too.

RELATED: Ulta’s Huge Skincare Sale Includes Half Off Zitsticka, Murad, CosRX & More

Shoppers of all ages are praising it. “This has been the best product for my hair. So if I can grow some hair when I am 71 years young, you can too,” wrote one.

“My hair was almost completely gone in the front of my head,” shared another. “I have been using the product for about 6 months. I spray it on before I get in the shower. Now the bald spots have new growth. Even my stylist asked me what I was using. I am very happy with results I have experienced after using this product.”

Whenever a professional stylist is intrigued, we can’t help but think a product is the real deal. Shop it for less than $20 on Amazon right now.

Aging isn’t easy. Wrinkles, grey hair, vision and hearing loss, and aches and pains pile up. But there are many perks of getting older, especially when finances are concerned.

Here are seven ways that growing older can have some financial perks.

Senior Discounts

If you are willing to admit your age, senior discounts are a great way to maintain a budget and enjoy the perks of being an older adult. Restaurants, hotels, car rental companies, retailers, grocery stores, theatres, museums, and mass transit provided reduced prices to those above a certain age.

While 65 is the official age to claim Medicare, senior perks can start much earlier. AARP negotiates discounts for members who are as young as 50. If you are unsure if you qualify for a senior discount, feel free to ask. Unfortunately, many businesses don’t advertise their deals; sometimes, they are given only to those who ask and show proof of their age.

To learn more about your senior benefits, check out websites like SeniorDiscounts.com, which has one of the most extensive lists of senior discounts.

Tax Deductions

Even though seniors are likely to have fewer tax deductions, seniors are eligible to claim a larger standard deduction than younger taxpayers. As a result, the standard deduction for seniors is $1,350 more for each person who is 65 and older. In other words, an extra $1,350 for single individuals and $2,700 for married couples.

Seniors with significant healthcare expenses can deduct medical expenses that exceed 7.5% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). Although you can’t deduct vitamins and fitness club dues, you can deduct health expenses such as prescription drug costs, mental health expenses, glasses, dentures, health insurance premiums, and long-term care costs.

Larger Retirement Account Limits

Workers over 50 can make a catch-up contribution and defer paying taxes on $27,000 if contributed to a 401k plan or $7,000 to an IRA in 2022.

Taxpayers age 55 and older who have a high-deductible health care plan are eligible to put an extra $1,000 into a health savings account.

No Early Withdrawal Penalties

Once you turn 59.5, the 10% early withdrawal penalty is eliminated. If you leave your job after turning 55, you can begin taking penalty-free 401k withdrawals from the account associated with your left job. For example, if you get terminated at 57, you will not be penalized for taking money out of a 401k account, although you may be taxed.

However, you will have to wait until 59.5 to avoid the early withdrawal penalty on distributions from 401k accounts associated with previous employers or IRAs unless you qualify for an early withdrawal penalty exemption.

Social Security Payments

According to the Social Security Administration, an average beneficiary receives about $18,264 annually. These guaranteed, inflation-adjusted payments can provide stress relief to the rest of your retirement portfolio, allowing your investments to accumulate over a longer time frame.

Retirees can sign up for a reduced Social Security payment at age 62 or claim their full Social Security payment at age 66 or 67, depending on their birth year. If you delay your benefit until age 70, you will further boost your monthly Social Security payment. Check out your projected Social Security benefits at SSA.gov.

Affordable Health Insurance

Most retirees don’t need to stress about finding a job that provides health insurance because once you turn 65, you can sign up for Medicare. Medicare does a great job meeting a senior’s baseline healthcare needs at a relatively low cost.

Most retirees don’t pay health care premiums for Part A hospital insurance. The premium for Medicare Part B, which covers doctor’s visits and medical services, is $170.10 per month for most retirees in 2022, which is usually deducted from your Social Security check so you won’t get a bill. Retirees can fill in the gaps between Medicare Part A and B by purchasing a supplemental plan or getting their prescription drugs covered under Medicare Part B.

The key to maximizing your Medicare benefit is to take advantage of their services, including an annual wellness visit, mental health assessments, vaccinations, and preventative tests and screenings. In addition, review your coverage every fall during the Open Enrollment period. Finally, comparing costs and coverages each year is essential even if you are satisfied with your current health insurance policy.

Community Resources

Here are a few community resources for seniors that might be available to you:

• Low-cost transportation services to help seniors get to doctor’s appointments or go grocery shopping
• Local senior centers offer a variety of drop-in activities
• City halls can provide services such as Meals on Wheels, safety checks, and medical equipment rental
• Local libraries might provide educational presentations ranging on a variety of topics

Let’s Have a Conversation:

What financial perks for seniors do you use most often? What is your favorite financial perk? Are there places that don’t offer financial perks to seniors?