For many people who menstruate, the days leading up to a period bring mood swings, cramps and bloating. You might feel puffy, your jeans may fit tighter or you may notice the scale creeping up a few more pounds. But don’t worry — this isn’t due to weight gain, it’s mostly water retention.  Period bloating is a completely normal part of the menstrual cycle, but understanding why it happens and what you can do about it can help you feel more in control. In this article you’ll learn more about period bloating, when it occurs and practical ways to reduce the discomfort.  What Causes Period Bloating?  A period (also called menstruation) is when blood and tissue from the lining of the uterus (womb) leave your body through the vagina. It usually occurs once a month. This happens because your body prepares for pregnancy and if there’s no sperm present when your egg is fertile, the body sheds the lining.  Your body goes through four phases:  Menstrual: This is when your period starts and the uterus sheds its lining.  Follicular: As your period starts, your body prepares for the next cycle by causing the eggs in your ovaries to mature. Ovulation: One mature egg is released into the ovary. Luteal: The body prepares for pregnancy and if the egg isn’t fertilized, the uterus sheds again. Bloating during a menstrual cycle is mainly caused by hormonal fluctuations — specifically changes in estrogen and progesterone levels. These hormones influence how your body retains water and regulates digestion.  Hormonal Shifts The two primary contributing factors to hormonal shifts are estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen levels rise in the days leading up to ovulation and can cause the body to retain more water. Progesterone — which is responsible for regulating the uterine lining — drops before your period — contributing to digestive issues like constipation and gas.  People who have anxiety have elevated cortisol levels — this stress chemical affects your estrogen and progesterone causing hormonal shifts.  Water Retention High estrogen levels encourage your body to hold on to sodium and water. The fluid is stored in the body’s tissues. Water retention leads to swelling in the hands, feet and abdomen — causing that familiar “puff” feeling.  Digestive Slowdown Progesterone can also relax the smooth muscles of your gastrointestinal tract, slowing digestion. Indigestion can lead to constipation, heartburn, bloating and various indigestion issues. Gas and Gut Sensitivity Your hormone shift causes period cravings by indicating to your neurotransmitters that it needs sweet or salty foods. But these cravings can affect your gas and gut sensitivity because the excess of sodium can lead to water retention. Changes in diet, cravings — like fats and carbs — and increased gut sensitivity during your luteal phase can lead to excess gas and bloating.  When Does Period Bloating Usually Occur?  Bloating typically happens around one week before your period starts and often improves once menstruation begins. This is called premenstrual symptoms, often referred to as PMS.  This corresponds to the luteal phase — when progesterone levels rise, then drop sharply right before menstruation. For some, bloating can persist throughout the period — but it usually resolves by the end of menstruation as hormone levels stabilize.  How Long Does Period Bloating Last?  Period bloating varies based on the person and their dietary needs. Most people experience bloating for a few days. Up to 75% of women have bloating issues because of their menstrual cycle. It usually peaks the day before or on the first day of menstruation and then subsides as your period progresses.  Women have a weight increase of almost a pound because of bloating. This is due to water retention. If you experience prolonged or severe bloating, it may be a sign of another underlying issue like irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerances or a hormonal imbalance like PCOS. It’s always best to consult a healthcare provider if your symptoms are persistent or disruptive.  Six Steps To Reduce Period Bloating While bloating is sometimes inevitable and a major cause of discomfort — there are various ways to ease the pain or prevent some outcomes. Here are six steps to reduce period bloating:  Watch your salt intake: Too much sodium can cause your body to hold on to water and cause indigestion. The recommended salt intake is about 1,500mg daily. Try to limit your processed and packaged foods that are high in salt. More than 70% of Americans’ sodium intake comes from packaged foods. Cooking at home allows you to control how much salt you consume.  Stay hydrated: It may seem counterintuitive, but drinking water helps flush excess sodium and prevents your body from holding onto fluids. When your body circulates water, it also helps fluid retention, which will reduce your swelling.  Eat potassium-rich foods: Potassium helps balance sodium levels and supports fluid regulation. Your body uses the mineral to maintain fluid balance and control muscle contractions. Foods that are rich in potassium include bananas, sweet potatoes, avocados and spinach. Avoid carbonated drinks: Soda and fizzy drinks introduce gas into your digestive system because you’re swallowing air— which can worsen bloating. Stick to water, herbal teas, or infused water with lemon or cucumber. These drinks aid in reducing bloating and soothe your digestive system.  Exercise regularly: Movement helps improve digestion and reduces water retention. Even light activities like walking or yoga can help you during your period. If your energy levels are low, try light exercises. If your body can handle strenuous exercises then you should do them to reduce muscle contractions. 6. Limit carbs and sugar: Refined carbs and sugar snacks can cause insulin spikes — which may increase water retention and bloating. Opt for whole grains, fruits and vegetables instead. From Bloat to Balance — You’ve Got This! Period bloating is a common and manageable part of the menstrual cycle. While hormonal changes are the root cause, simple lifestyle adjustments — like eating well, exercising, and monitoring your sugar and carb intake — can significantly ease your discomfort. If your symptoms are severe and don’t go away, you should seek medical advice. Else, knowing that bloating is temporary and largely treatable can help you feel more in control of your body.

Conversations about the link between mental health and microbiomes usually focus on the gut. The oral microbiome is often overlooked, but it plays a surprisingly important role in how your brain processes stress, anxiety and even depression. Understanding how oral health impacts mental health is crucial to taking proactive steps toward overall well-being.  The Mouth-Brain Connection Your mouth is home to 6 billion bacteria — both good and bad. Under the right conditions, this oral ecosystem helps with digestion, supports your immune system and keeps inflammation under control. However, when it’s out of balance — usually due to poor oral hygiene, chronic stress, high sugar intake or smoking — harmful bacteria can multiply. This bad bacteria can trigger systemic inflammation, leak into your bloodstream and even travel along the cranial nerves to your brain.  Researchers are finding increasing evidence linking oral microbiome imbalances to elevated cortisol levels, increased inflammation in the brain and a heightened stress response. This means that your mouth might be making your anxiety worse.  This is a game-changer in understanding how oral health impacts mental health. It shifts the narrative from focusing solely on the gut-brain axis to a more complete picture that includes your teeth, tongue, gums and saliva.  Signs Your Mouth-Brain Link May Be Out of Sync The connection between oral health and mental health often begins with subtle physical symptoms. These signs can be early indicators that the oral microbiome is out of balance and may contribute to elevated stress or anxiety levels. Common signs of oral microbiome imbalance include: Chronic bad breath — or halitosis — even after brushing Red, swollen or bleeding gums, especially when brushing or flossing Persistent plaque buildup or tartar, which fuels bacterial overgrowth Tooth sensitivity or decay despite routine care Dry mouth, which limits saliva’s natural cleansing and protective functions Frequent mouth ulcers or sores, signaling immune response dysfunction When you ignore these symptoms, pathogenic bacteria — such as Porphyromonas — can thrive. This specific bacterium is linked to impaired memory and disorders like Alzheimer’s. Additionally, oral inflammation can impact neurotransmitter systems, particularly those responsible for producing serotonin and dopamine. These are the same brain chemicals that influence mood, motivation and emotional stability. A disrupted oral microbiome can reduce the availability of these neurotransmitters, leaving the brain more reactive to stress and increasing the risk of anxiety and depressive symptoms.  Simple Practices That Make a Difference Caring for the oral microbiome is a foundational part of supporting emotional and neurological health. These everyday habits can help restore microbial balance in the mouth and reduce the inflammatory triggers contributing to anxiety and stress.  1. Brush Twice Daily Brushing in the morning and before bed removes plaque, food particles and harmful bacteria that can disrupt the oral microbiome. Use fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean thoroughly without damaging the gums or enamel. Brushing consistently keeps inflammation in check, reducing the chances of bacterial byproducts entering the bloodstream. It’s also an opportunity to build healthy habits across generations. Children often imitate their parents, so when brushing is part of a visible, shared routine, they’re more likely to adopt it as a lifelong habit. Letting them experiment with different toothpaste flavors or choose their own toothbrush can make the process more fun and engaging while still laying the foundation for strong oral and mental health.  2. Floss Every Day The American Dental Association recommends flossing once a day, whether it’s first thing in the morning or before bed. Flossing removes debris and bacteria between teeth — areas a toothbrush can’t reach. Neglecting this step allows harmful microbes to thrive in tight spaces, leading to gum inflammation and microbiome imbalance. Daily flossing is one of the most effective ways to support oral and systemic health. 3. Avoid Harsh Mouthwashes Many over-the-counter mouthwashes contain alcohol or strong antimicrobial agents that indiscriminately kill bacteria, including beneficial strains. This can weaken the oral microbiome over time. Instead, choose an alcohol-free, microbiome-friendly mouthwash that maintains balance without wiping out the good microbes. 4. Choose a Microbiome-Supporting Diet A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates feeds harmful oral bacteria. Prioritize whole foods, leafy greens, fiber-rich vegetables and lean proteins. Crunchy, fibrous foods like carrots and apples can help mechanically clean teeth while supporting healthy bacteria. Staying hydrated promotes saliva production, essential for neutralizing acid and maintaining oral balance. 5. See a Dentist Regularly Visit your dentist at least once every year for a checkup. Routine dental checkups are essential for spotting early signs of microbiome disruption, such as gum inflammation or plaque buildup. Professional cleanings help remove hardened tartar and allow the dentist to catch issues before they become chronic. Preventive care plays a direct role in protecting oral and mental well-being.  A Healthier Mouth for a Calmer Mind The connection between oral health and mental well-being is stronger than many realize. An imbalanced oral microbiome can quietly fuel systemic inflammation, disrupt neurotransmitter function and increase the body’s stress response — all of which contribute to anxiety. Understanding how oral health impacts mental health shifts the focus beyond just brushing for cavity prevention. 

There are so many ways to start the day, but rice for breakfast might be the best one. It’s easily available and simple, especially when you already have a handy rice cooker at home. Plus, it’s relatively easy to digest and provides plenty of energy due to its carbohydrate content. You can also cook it in many ways.  Which Rice is Best for Breakfast? Whole-grain rice, like brown rice, is an ideal breakfast option. It contains bran and germ to provide a more nutrient-dense meal, leaving you full and nourished throughout the day. However, you can also explore other options like white rice if that’s what’s available to you.  There was also some evidence that brown rice helped reduce body weight, though it did not significantly affect blood sugar control in pre-diabetic or type-2 diabetic people. Further research is necessary to confirm its effectiveness. That said, it’s worth including in your weight loss journey.  Who Even Eats Rice for Breakfast? There are many people who eat rice for breakfast, but it’s typically recognized as a staple in Asian cuisine. In fact, China consumes more rice than any other country, eating 145 million metric tons of it from 2024 to 2025. In terms of lifestyle, athletes and bodybuilders are big fans of white rice. The food group is rich in carbohydrates and fulfills the macronutrient count needed to fulfill extreme training without exhaustion. If you want to work on your physical health, it’s certainly worth looking up.   Best Asian Recipes with Rice There are many Asian breakfast cuisines that love incorporating rice, so you have plenty of options when you want to start having rice for breakfast. Here are the 10 tastiest ones: 1. Bibimbap Bibimbap is a popular dish that people often get when introduced to Korean cuisine. The direct translation is mixed rice with meat and assorted vegetables. Spinach, bean sprouts, mushrooms and carrots are the typical vegetables added into the recipe, but you can explore more additions like seaweed and onions.  2. Oyakadon Japanese chicken and egg rice bowl or oyakodon is another breakfast staple to try out. It has quite a flavorful broth that starts with dashi and soy sauce before incorporating sake and sugar. From there, you can slice and simmer chicken breast or thighs into the mix. Top it onto a bed of freshly cooked rice with an egg.  3. Tapsilog Tapsilog is made of meat, fried rice and egg. Filipino tapa is traditionally beef that’s cured with different spices and dried or smoked, but you can explore other options like corned beef or fish. One of the most unique ingredients in its marinade is calamansi juice, which adds a tanginess and tenderizes the meat. You can substitute with other citrus fruit juices.  4. Roast Eggplant If you want a simple introduction to having rice for breakfast, roasted eggplant is pretty easy to whip up. When grilled, these vegetables are rich in fiber and water while being low in starch. Pair this with a tahini and turmeric sauce that is nutty, earthy, and aromatic all at once. Some also garnish it with fresh cilantro and mint leaves.  5. Khao Pad Krapow Khao Pad Krapow is a popular must-try dish from Thai cuisine. What sets it apart from other dishes is the addition of basil leaves and the extra kick from chilies. Plus, unlike pad kra pao that’s just stir-fried meat and basil, this dish tosses the meat with leftover rice together, making it easier to make in just one pot.  6. Miso Salmon Create a delicious Japanese miso salmon rice bowl to start your morning off right. Marinate the fish first in soy sauce and miso, along with sesame oil and ginger, before frying. Run some cucumbers on a mandolin to get perfectly sliced circles, which will add a crunchy addition to the savory breakfast meal.  7. Tuna Onigiri Want an easy breakfast to take with you on the way out the door? Onigiri is a great travel food because it is handheld. These tuna mayo onigiri, especially, are so enjoyable because they are so simple to make. You can use an onigiri mold to get the iconic triangular shape right, or try your hand at a plastic wrap.  8. Edamame Fried Rice Edamame is a delicious soybean that can add a nice texture to your fried rice. Plus, it can account for 20% of your daily protein intake without a single ounce of meat. For the best results, get some leftover brown rice and add some julienned carrots into the mix. Pair with a protein of your choice, like egg or meat.  9. Congee Chinese congee or rice porridge is versatile— you can top it with sausage, bacon, and other kinds of protein. It mainly utilizes long-grain white rice, but you can use whatever’s available. Either way, it goes into this flavorful broth filled with chicken or vegetable stock. Sliced ginger makes it even more flavorful.  10. Poha Poha is a traditional Indian breakfast that’s absolutely flavorful. The word translates to flattened rice and it can also be topped with just about anything. Some do eat it as is, though, as the onion, spices, herbs, lemon juice and peanuts already give it a distinctive taste. However, you can also do yogurt and vegetable salad on the side.   How to Make Rice Breakfasts Healthier Rice for breakfast can already be quite healthy. However, there are a few key steps that you can take to ensure that it’s even more nutritious and geared for weight loss. Try these out: Portion right: One cup of rice per meal is enough to help you feel full during breakfast time. You can still cook multiple portions so that you have leftovers to experiment with for the next few mornings.  Sprinkle in extras: To lessen the carb count and increase the nutrition, add a variety of grains and other foods to your rice. For instance, you can add quinoa, corn, lentils, and mushrooms along with your seasonings of choice.  Add a healthy side dish: Similar to some of the recipes on this list, you can add a healthy side dish to balance out the rice’s heaviness. Think coleslaw, cucumber salad or slices of avocado.  Enjoy Rice Breakfast Meals Rice for breakfast is an underrated way to kick-start your morning and fill up your stomach. Make sure you try out your favorite recipes and add them to your rotation. Share photos with us on our social media accounts and happy cooking!

Figuring out how to get fluffy hair can seem like quite a mystery for many people, especially with people who weren’t born with those luscious curls and waves from the get-go. However, there are tips and tricks you can use to achieve that flawless-looking head of hair. Learn: Why the Fluffy Hair Is In Style How to Get Voluminous Hair Easily Other Frequently Asked Questions Why the Fluffy Hair Is In Style Thick and full hair has always been popular regardless of gender. It’s often a sign of good genes and youthfulness, as well as health and hair care strategies. Even before the fluffy hair agenda, people in the 50s and 80s just adored having as big and as bouncy hair as possible. When people talk about how to get fluffy hair today, they usually refer to the Sabrina Carpenter style of having curtain bangs and layers that look effortlessly beautiful. Timothée Chalamet's bedhead hair is also a good point of reference for men.  How to Get Voluminous Hair Easily The art of getting fluffy hair mainly involves a good haircare routine and intentional styling. Let’s break it down into seven simple steps.  1. Know Your Haircut Inspo Get the best chances of having voluminous hair with a haircut. The right hairdo lets different parts of your hair stand out in the best of ways. A butterfly or wolf cut can create layers that work as a foundation for the fluff.  For men or those who would want more male-presenting cuts, ask for mullets or shaggy cuts. You can also ask your barber for some recommendations on what would work for your facial structure and current hair style.  2. Focus on Hydration First Some people tend to confuse fluffy hair with frizzy hair or a cowlick. And while those are big hair by their own definition, the latter two are indicative of hair dryness and damage. You know that your hair is fluffy if it's well hydrated with a light texture.  To achieve this, you can adopt moisturizing hair products. The occasional hair mask, conditioner, and oils are ideal for a boost of hydration. Good hair care habits, like gentle towel drying and using silk pillowcases, are also important to avoid friction and moisture loss.  3. Find Lighter Hair Products For your regular hair care routine, you want to have a standard set of lightweight hair products. For example, you should use a volumizing shampoo and conditioner that washes off easily after lathering and foaming. These formulas clean the scalp and strands without product buildup.  If you already have thick and wavy hair, you can really stop at that with the products. However, if you’re seeking more definition, a volumizing or texturizing hair mousse or spray should do the trick. Remember that it should be as light as possible.  4. Blow Dry With Care If you want optimal hair volume, consider blow-drying it. You can section out your hair to really work through and add air to different portions of your hair. Taking it as slow as possible would prevent uneven drying. You can also dry your hair upside down for extra volume and use heat protectant to avoid damage.  5. Brush and Tease Take inspiration from the vintage age and brush and tease your hair. You can use a wide-tooth comb to remove the tangles before switching to a bristled brush. Like blow drying, you want to work in sections and tease the hair upward. This motion can cause friction, so remember to practice hair hydration and gentle movements beforehand.  6. Style with Volume By this stage, you should already have pretty fluffy hair that you can just wear as is. However, you can also take it to the next level in style with volume in mind. Irons, air wraps and hot rollers work wonders in achieving those curls and waves. You can use your best judgment on what would work best for your budget, hair length and more.  7. Think About Hair Aftercare Volumizing the hair, especially with blow drying and heat styling, can take a lot on your hair. The average person loses 50 to 100 strands every day due to breakage. Remember to hydrate afterward with hair repair and other deep conditioning products. You can also space out the next time you have fluffy hair.  Bonus: Consider Overnight Styling! There are heatless ways to style and volumize your hair even before you wake up. Sleep-in curlers or rollers, for example, can help condition your hair for those beachy waves.  Remember to avoid frizz by putting your hair in a silk cap before hitting the hay. You can also use a satin scrunchie to achieve the loose bun for effortless fluff.  Frequently Asked Questions How Do I Get Fluffy Hair As a Guy? The main way to get fluffy hair as a guy or masculine-presenting person is to get the right haircut first. From there, you can add volume and texture to the roots and strands with different products to add volume. Here's an example of some of the best boy haircuts for 2025 with fluffy hair: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/11822017765477619/ How Do I Get Fluffy Hair As a Girl? Fluffy hair is traditionally associated with femininity. The best way to achieve it is a similar process with guys, where you have the ideal hairdo and work magic with your hair care products. Check out an example of the best girl haircuts for 2025 for voluminous hair: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/654570127099391201/ How Do I Get Fluffy Hair with Straight Hair? Straight hair can be a little more stubborn when trying to add volume to it, as it’s geared to be naturally flat. Blow-drying upside down and a little tousling or finessing is often a good way to create that texture. However, remember to avoid touching your hair too much, as overdoing it can cause it to fall.  How Do I Get Fluffy Hair with Thin Hair? Fluffy hair is associated with thick hair, which can seem challenging to achieve when you have thinner locks. You can try home remedies like giving yourself a scalp massage or using essential oils to stimulate hair growth. It can take a while to see results, but consistency can go a long way in achieving that optimal density.  How Do I Get Fluffy Hair After a Shower? It’s natural for fluffy hair to fall flat when wet. A little airdrying and tousling should naturally restore its volume. However, if you’re in a hurry, blow-drying and heat styling are your best bets. Remember to use heat protectant before subjecting your hair to that routine! Learn How to Get Fluffy Hair Now that you know how to get voluminous hair, it’s time to use it almost any chance you get. Whether you’re just out to get some groceries, heading out to see some friends or meeting a potentially special someone, you’ll be picture-ready 

If your body suddenly feels unfamiliar — hello, breakouts, bloating and mood swings — you might be in the thick of second puberty. This unofficial but very real phase of hormonal shifts can hit in adulthood and leave you wondering what’s going on. Don’t panic, though. Here’s a breakdown of what second puberty is, why it happens and how to support your body through it.  What Is Second Puberty?  Let’s get one thing straight — second puberty isn’t an official medical diagnosis, but it is a very real experience. It’s a term used to describe the hormonal shifts that happen in adulthood. These changes often happen in your late 20s to 40s and can affect everything from your mood and skin to your metabolism and sex drive. Think of it as puberty’s older, wiser and slightly more chaotic sibling.  For women, second puberty can be linked to major hormonal milestones like perimenopause, pregnancy, postpartum recovery or aging. For men, testosterone levels start to dip gradually around age 30, bringing subtle but noticeable changes. For transgender individuals undergoing hormone replacement therapy (HRT), second puberty is quite literal — your body is going through a full hormonal shift that can mimic the changes of adolescence.  Regardless of your gender, these shifts can be disorienting. Your body may feel different, your emotions may run high and what worked for you health-wise a few years ago might suddenly stop working. It’s frustrating, but it’s also totally normal. Second puberty is your body’s way of recalibrating. With the right tools, you can ride the wave instead of feeling like you’re drowning in it.  When Does Second Puberty Hit?  Second puberty doesn’t come with a calendar invite — it tends to sneak up on you. For many women, it starts in the late 20s to mid-30s and is often triggered by hormonal events like coming off birth control, pregnancy or the early stages of perimenopause — which can begin up to 10 years before menopause or in a woman’s early 40s and 50s. You may not even realize it’s hormonal at first, until you’re crying during toothpaste commercials and wondering why your jeans don’t fit the same.  For men, testosterone levels naturally begin to decline around 30, dropping a little each year. The result is slower metabolism, mood shifts and even changes in sex drive and muscle mass. It’s subtle, but real.  For trans people beginning HRT, second puberty is literal. Estrogen or testosterone can trigger everything from new body hair to emotional changes and fat redistribution, mimicking many classic puberty symptoms.  The Hormonal Shift: What Changes and Why  Second puberty is driven by fluctuating levels of key hormones — mainly estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. These aren’t just reproductive hormones. Instead, they regulate your sleep, metabolism, mood, skin health and even digestion. When they try sto hift, everything can feel off.  For women, estrogen and progesterone start to fluctuate in perimenopause, sometimes years before menopause officially begins. This can cause irregular periods, hot flashes, anxiety, brain fog and more. It’s not just “getting older,” it’s you’re body preparing for a whole new hormonal baseline.  Men, on the other hand, might experience a gradual testosterone decline — sometimes called andropause. It’s not as sudden or severe as menopause, but it can still lead to fatigue, decreased libido, trouble concentrating and even depression.  For transgender individuals, hormone therapy induces purposeful hormonal shifts. Taking testosterone or estrogen alters secondary sex characteristics and while empowering, it can also come with mood swings, acne, appetite changes and more as the body adjusts.  Across the board, stress, diet, poor sleep, and environmental toxins can throw hormones even further out of balance. So, if you’re feeling “off,” it’s not just in your head. Understanding that can help you respond with more compassion, strategy, and self-care.  Symptoms of Second Puberty  Second puberty symptoms can feel like deja vu — but with adult responsibilities and way less patience. You might not experience all of them, but here are the most common signs your hormones are shifting:  Skin changes: Acne, dryness, or increased sensitivity around the jawline or chin.  Weight fluctuations: Sudden weight gain or difficulty losing weight, particularly around the belly or hips.  Mood swings: Anxiety, irritability, low mood or feeling overwhelmed for no obvious reason.  Sleep issues: Trouble falling or staying asleep or waking up feeling unrefreshed.  Digestive changes: Bloating, constipation or food sensitivities that didn’t bother you before.  Hair shifts: Thinning hair on your head or unexpected hair growth elsewhere.  Libido changes: Either a major drop or a sudden spike in sex drive.  Irregular periods or new PMS symptoms: For women, this is often the first sign that something’s changing.  You might chalk it up to stress, aging or diet — but if multiple symptoms show up at once and don’t resolve, your hormones are likely involved and unlike your teen years, this time you have more tools to manage it.  Tips for Dealing with Second Puberty  Second puberty isn’t something you “fix.” Instead, it’s something you navigate. But you can absolutely support your body through it with some strategic changes, like:  Balance your blood sugar. Stable blood sugar helps regulate cortisol and insulin, which affect sex hormones. Eat protein, fiber and healthy fats at each meal.  Reduce endocrine disruptors. Ditch plastics, synthetic fragrances and harsh cleaning products. These chemicals mess with your hormones more than you think.  Get quality sleep. Your hormones reset while you sleep. Aim for seven to nine hours in a cool, dark room and keep a consistent bedtime.  Move your body. Gentle movement like walking, pilates or strength training supports hormone health without spiking cortisol.  Check your stress levels. Chronic stress hijacks your hormones and leads to you feeling worse. Try breathwork, journaling or meditation. Even ten minutes helps.  Support your liver. Drink plenty of water, eat leafy greens and consider milk thistle or dandelion tea.  Get lab work done. Knowledge is power. A full hormonal panel can help you and your provider make informed decisions.  This is less about perfection and more about tuning into your body and giving it what it needs during this transition.  Hormones, Hilarity and Hot Flashes Second puberty can feel like your body’s turning on you — but really, it’s turning a corner. These changes may be uncomfortable, but they’re also a sign that your body is shifting into a new phase, one that deserves care, curiosity and compassion. With the right support, you can come out of this feeling stronger, wiser and more in tune with yourself than ever.

If you’ve ever wondered why your pee is neon yellow, you’re not alone. Bright yellow urine is surprisingly common, and it’s usually nothing to panic over. But sometimes, it can be a signal from your body that something needs attention — whether it’s what you’re eating, how much you’re drinking or something more serious like a UTI or kidney stones. Here’s a breakdown of what could be behind that bright, neon pee.  How multivitamins impact urine color How dehydration affects pee color How artificial dyes impact urine color What are the signs of a UTI? What are the signs of kidney stones? How medications affect urine color Other frequently asked questions 1. You Took a Multivitamin This is one of the most frequent — and harmless — reasons your urine turns a bright yellow. Most multivitamins — especially those containing B-complex vitamins like riboflavin and B12 — cause this color change. These vitamins are water-soluble, meaning your body flushes out what it doesn’t use. Riboflavin gives off a neon yellow pigment, which your kidneys send out through your urine.  Eva Clarke, Founder at Health Studio, says this isn’t a cause for concern, “This coloring is a result of the body flushing out any excess of the supplement that is not absorbed. It is not a concern and will usually fade over time with regular hydration.” Catherine Gervacio, a registered dietitian and nutrition consultant for WOWMD, agrees that this is just your body removing what isn’t necessary. “When your body has more than it needs, it gets rid of the extra through your urine. This turns your pee to that bright and highlighter-yellow color. It’s usually nothing to worry about. As long as you're drinking enough water and you’re not experiencing any pain or strange symptoms, it’s likely just your body flushing out excess nutrients." 2. You’re Dehydrated While dehydration often causes urine to appear darker, it can also make it look more concentrated and brighter in color — especially first thing in the morning. When you don’t drink enough water, your kidneys retain more fluid and concentrate the waste products, leading to brighter yellow urine. Signs of dehydration can include: Dry mouth Fatigue Headache Dizziness  3. You Ate Foods With Artificial Dyes Your diet plays a bigger role in urine color than you might think. Foods and drinks with artificial coloring — like sports drinks, brightly colored cereals, candies and even some ice creams — can temporarily dye your urine bright yellow or even greenish.  Your body doesn’t fully break down synthetic dyes, so they exit the body the same way they came in. While this isn’t harmful, it can definitely be surprising if you’ve forgotten what you ate.  Sometimes, even eating naturally bright foods can cause this. Registered Dietitian Ayanna Smart and writer of the Dementia Dietitian blog says, “Eating foods that are rich in carotenes, like carrots, can add a bright yellow or orange hue to urine and in some cases, to skin.”  Asparagus is also known for giving urine a slightly brighter hue in some people, while beets and blackberries can add a reddish tint. Energy drinks and fortified cereals often contain high levels of vitamin B or added coloring agents, which can result in neon yellow pee.  4. You Have a Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) While a UTI typically causes cloudy or reddish urine, some people report brighter-than-normal pee early in the infection. A UTI occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, often leading to symptom like: A strong urge to pee, even when your bladder isn’t full Burning during urination Lower abdominal or pelvic pain Unpleasant-smelling urine If you notice bright yellow urine along with any of these symptoms, it’s worth seeing your doctor. If you leave it untreated, a UTI can lead to kidney complications.  5. You Have Kidney Stones Kidney stones form when minerals and salts in your urine clump together, creating hard deposits that can block your urinary tract. In the early stages, you might not feel any pain — but your urine could change color. If your pee is neon yellow and you experience discomfort in your side, lower back or during urination, it could be a warning sign. Dehydration and high concentrations of certain minerals in your urine are leading risk factors for kidney stones. Drinking plenty of water reduces that risk and keeps your urine a healthy, pale yellow.  6. You’ve Taken Certain Medications Some prescriptions and over-the-counter medications can cause your urine to appear bright yellow or even fluorescent. This is especially true for drugs that contain synthetic dyes or ingredients that your kidney metabolizes and excretes. For example, certain antibiotics, laxatives and other medications can all tint your pee, causing that yellow color.  Diuretics, which increase urine output, may also make your urine appear more concentrated and yellow. If you’ve recently started a new medication and notice your pee is neon yellow, check the side effects listed on the label or consult your doctor. It’s often harmless, but always worth confirming to rule out any unwanted reactions.  Frequently Asked Questions 1. Does Bright Yellow Urine Mean Liver Problems? Not usually. Bright yellow urine is most often caused by vitamins — especially B-complex — or mild dehydration. Liver issues tend to cause dark brown, tea-colored or orange urine, not neon yellow. However, if your urine color changes suddenly and is accompanied by symptoms like yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), fatigue or abdominal pain, it’s important to talk to a health care provider. 2. What Foods Cause Neon Yellow Urine? Foods with artificial dyes — like bright candies, processed snacks or colorful beverages — can temporarily change the color of your urine. Natural foods typically don’t cause neon yellow pee, but very high doses of certain nutrients (like beta-carotene in carrots or supplements) might shift the shade slightly. The most common food-related cause is still vitamin-fortified products or energy drinks.  3. Why Is My Urine a Slight Lemon Yellow? A pale lemon or light yellow color usually means your hydration level is good. This is considered normal and healthy. The slight yellow tint comes from urochrome, a pigment your body produces when it breaks down old red blood cells. If your urine is lemon-colored and you’re not experiencing any other symptoms, it’s a sign your body is functioning well.  4. What Does Pee Color Say About Health? Urine color is a quick visual indicator of your hydration and overall health. Pale yellow: Well hydrated, healthy Bright yellow or neon: Likely from vitamins or certain medications Dark yellow: Possible dehydration Red or pink: Could be blood Brown or tea-colored: May suggest liver or kidney issues Cloudy: Can point to a UTI Changes are often harmless, but if they persist or you have other symptoms, talk to a healthcare provider. 5. Should I Stop Taking Vitamins if My Pee Is Bright Yellow? Not necessarily. Bright yellow urine after taking vitamins is completely normal. It just means your body is flushing out the excess it doesn’t need. You don’t have to stop unless your doctor advises you to. However, if you’re unsure whether you need all the supplements you’re taking, it’s a good idea to review them with a healthcare professional. When to Pay Attention Bright yellow or neon urine is usually nothing to worry about — it’s often a sign your body is processing vitamins, foods or medications. Most of the time, it’s simply your system doing its job. But your pee can be a useful cue about hydration levels, or in rare cases, a sign of something more serious like a UTI or kidney issue. Keep an eye on what you put into your body.