Superbabies, incoming.

If your FYP is anything like mine, “the stress hormone” — part of the fight or flight cocktail of chemicals we release under pressure  — is to blame for everything from sleep problems, to breakouts, to puffiness, to sugar cravings, to brain fog. 

It’s normal for cortisol to rise and fall during the day. Like when you’re running from a lion or your boss leaves a “pls fix” comment. But, it’s not the catch-all boogeyman for everything that ails you. Here’s how to know if your levels are actually a problem.

And here’s why I’m thinking the Cortisol Discourse™ has officially gone too far… ‎‎

• “Cortisol face” is trending and I’m scared to look...

• ...because sometimes it's an actual health concern. Just ask Amy Schumer.

• “Cortisol cocktails” are the new lemon water. But are they legit?

• Working out brings down your cortisol levels… right? 

• You could roll the dice with “cortisol-reducing” supplements –– or just reach for these nutrient-rich foods that may lower cortisol.

— Anna "Going on a Cortisol Discourse Detox” Davies, writer

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Would you RSVP “yes” to a “backyard Botox” party?

Some parents are embarking on a dangerous DNA path in pursuit of a “superbaby.” 

This annoying below-the-belt symptom could affect eight out of 10 women in perimenopause... so why is no one talking about it?

If you’ve got melatonin on your bedside table –– or in your kid’s medicine cabinet –– you'll want to read this.

The internet is obsessed with this viral chia seed drink… but here's why you should think twice before giving your gut an “internal shower."

Is your late-night ice cream habit giving you nightmares?

If you’ve ever gotten your period at the exact wrong time… at least you weren’t this model at Wimbledon.

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The continuous glucose monitor (CGM) was originally designed for people with diabetes to monitor their blood sugar, but it’s gone mainstream thanks to influencers like "Glucose Goddess" and certain Montecito celebs. 

Now, everyone with an Oura Ring is wondering whether to add this health data tracker to the mix. Here's what to know...

The 101: Your body breaks food into glucose (blood sugar) for energy. CGMs track how your blood sugar rises and falls after you eat.

The why: People that don't have diabetes or prediabetes wear CGMs to track their data and experiment with small tweaks — like swapping a sugary breakfast for eggs, or seeing if a 10-minute walk after lunch helps avoid an energy crash.

What doctors say: CGM data can be unreliable for non-diabetics. And, our blood sugar naturally goes up and down, so focusing on every bump can fuel unnecessary stress.

For Your Sanity:

• Notice patterns. If certain foods leave you feeling tired or hungry soon after eating, try pairing them with these.

• Talk to a pro. If you have concerns, a doctor or a registered dietitian may have suggestions –– like "meal sequencing" to shift how your body responds to high-glycemic foods. 

• Move up dinner time. Here's why.

• Carbs do not always = sugar crash. For example: This healthier way to make pasta.   

FEATURED EXPERT:

Hannah Kopelman, DO

Dermatologist, DermOnDemand

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“Generally not when used as directed. Insect repellents aren’t just about avoiding itchy bites — they can help prevent serious illnesses, like Lyme disease and West Nile virus. I personally recommend insect repellents that contain 20–30% DEET for most outdoor activities, as that concentration offers solid protection without being overly harsh on the skin. For those who prefer alternatives, products with picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus are also effective, but they may not last quite as long. What matters most is choosing an EPA-registered repellent — that tells you it’s been reviewed for both safety and efficacy. And don’t forget to reapply if you’re out for a long time or sweating a lot.”

PS: Here’s a roundup of repellants to consider that both work well and don’t smell like Eau de Melted Plastic.

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Skip the lecture and go straight for the prize bowl with these electronic toothbrushes that keep cavities at bay while helping your smile sparkle.

Oral-B

Oral-B iO Series 5 is the best value.

Suri

Suri 40-Day Battery Life Electric Toothbrush is the best for sustainability.

Philips

Philips Sonicare 9900 Prestige is the best splurge.

Click here for the full list of the best electric toothbrushes, medically reviewed by a dentist.

Pop Quiz

Do you know which healthcare providers can help if you determine if what you are experiencing are symptoms of PPD? Symptoms can include depressed mood, loss of interest in hobbies, or trouble bonding with your new baby.^†

A) OB-GYNs (obstetrician-gynecologists)

B) Primary care providers

C) Nurse practitioners or physician assistants

D) Psychiatrists

E) All of the above

If you guessed E, all of the above, you’re right. It can be difficult to know where to start a conversation about PPD, but it’s one of the most common complications associated with pregnancy — and there are treatment options available. ZURZUVAE^® (zuranolone) is the first and only FDA-approved 14-day oral treatment for adults with PPD. Learn how to get the conversation started here.