Your case of the Mondays, closed Thanks to new research from Stony Brook University, we know now that our moods stay consistent during the workweek. And should you still need a little pick-me-up after your weekend happiness high, we have 3 science-proven ways, like packing walnuts and salmon for lunch, guaranteed to boost your spirits. The Clean 15 It’s no secret that our fruits and veggies can come with a side of pesticide residue. And a new report from the nonprofit Environmental Working Group (EWG) says that that isn’t changing any time soon. So the best way to sidestep toxic chemicals on your food is to buy them organic—not all of them, but definitely these 15, e.g., nectarines, bell peppers and leafy greens. This way, you’re eating healthily without breaking the bank. CT scans may do more harm than good According to a recent report issued by the Institute of Medicine (IOM), avoiding unnecessary medical imaging, like a blast of radiation from a CT scan, is one of the single most important steps women can take to reduce their risk of breast cancer. But what should you do if a scan is necessary? Follow our 4 steps. How to say no to after-dinner dessert Our willpower, like money and patience, tends to wear down throughout the day, finds researchers from Iowa and Minnesota University, and it’s because the more we test it, the more the self-control part of our brain becomes less active, making it easier to lose control. But by simply picking your battles and practicing, plus more, you can keep your reserves of willpower at maximum, cookie-resisting levels. Here’s how. Never overreact again If you tend to sweat the small stuff, which a recent study published in the Journal of Neuroscience says we’re hard-wired to do, we have good news: You don’t have to be a slave to your emotions. Sure, sometimes our feelings get the best of us, but we found some ways to stop overreactions before they start. Learn how these tips and more can really make a difference. 3 weird stress solutions that actually work We know, Beyoncé—women run the world, but it doesn’t mean we can’t get stressed out doing it. In fact, a recent study published in the Journal of Applied Social Psychology shows women report higher levels of stress than any other group, surpassing even low-income individuals. Sound familiar? What you’ll have to read to believe probiotics, light bulbs and singing can do to help manage stress.
