Skimm Well

So Yesterday

We’ve got the strangest sense of déjà vu. Laguna Beach is on TV, Hilary Duff is in the headlines, and the devil’s not only wearing Prada… but that cerulean blue sweater, too. It all feels very on brand, given that some say we’re in the midst of a millennial midlife crisis. Not the sports car kind — more like the “wait, is this it?” sort.

We followed the blueprint to build a stable life: school, career, all of it. And now reality doesn’t quite match our expectations. So, is it any wonder we want to go back, back to the beginning? If only to better understand how we got here?

Science has an explanation for our sudden urge to reach for our favorite going-out top like it’s 2006: Nostalgia kicks in when the future feels shaky… and it does more than just comfort us.

So, if this is our moment to come clean and find a pigment of truth (dare you not to sing along), here’s where we’ve gained some perspective lately:

They may blame us for making ChatGPT sound cringe, but a Gen Z Redditor just reminded us what millennials got right.
One thing about our generation? We’re willing to move to get more of what we want — these places check all the boxes (number nine is especially tempting).
And aging isn’t all bad. Not to brag, but we’re healthier than our parents in two unexpected ways.

— Anna “My Life Is Still Unwritten” Davies, writer

What's Making the Rounds

Hate to break it to you, but here's why you might want to think twice about that viral "egg coffee" trend.

Before you invest in a pricey sleep setup, give your body’s “magic sleep button” a press. No, it’s not your snooze alarm.

Feel superior to your pickleball pals: “Plogging” is a new fitness trend that’s good for your heart… and the planet.

An oncologist shares five habits that could reduce your colorectal cancer risk. It’s time to get over your fear of number five.

Perimenopause can fly under the radar for many women in this life stage, which can lead to delayed diagnoses and more-annoying symptoms.

Need to tackle your to-do list? Take a walk. Research suggests nature can stimulate this type of attention and memory — and it may help you focus better.

Gut Check

The term “gut health” has been a buzzword for a while, but until recently, no one could quite agree on what it meant. Now, scientists are starting to define it… and take it more seriously.

Is this just about bathroom drama? That’s part of it, but not the whole picture. Gut-related conditions, like IBS, can be debilitating — and affect women way more than men. But your gut isn’t just responsible for smooth digestion.

It acts as a communication center for your body, sending signals that affect everything from immune response to memory via the gut-brain axis. It also plays a role in mood, which means your gut can influence how you feel, not just how you process food.

So… eat more yogurt? Sure, yogurt and other fermented foods can support a healthy gut microbiome. But right now, research points to something that can move the needle even more: diversity. Here’s what that means in practice.

For Your Sanity:

Try the “30-30-3 method.” It’s a doable approach to add more variety to your diet. Just be sure to include plenty of the “super six” and avoid these five foods that aren’t doing your gut any favors.
Slow down. You already know that chewing more can lead to better food absorption, but an RDN known as “the queen of gut health” says it matters most at this point in your meal.
Rethink your drink. Your gut isn’t exactly thrilled about diet soda. But it might like fermented options like kefir or kombucha. And if you really want to treat it, sip this tea.

You wipe out in a group fitness class and the room goes silent. Your recovery move?

Leave class immediately

Laugh at yourself

Explain that you only tripped because someone left their water bottle in your way.

Analyze your misstep with your therapist, Dr. GPT.

Dairy Queen

Cottage cheese has long felt like the Karen Smith of the dairy aisle — it hovers near the Regina George-level Greek yogurt, but is never the first pick. Thanks to TikTok, though, the creamy dairy product is pushing further into the spotlight.

Packed with protein and essential nutrients like phosphorus (strong bones, energy, cellular repair), it works as a snack, an unexpected hero in dishes like pastas or pizzas, or a stealth ingredient to boost the profile of sides. Here are three ways to embrace the cottage cheese craze.

Add extra protein to your breakfast. Scramble cottage cheese with eggs, or mix it into this breakfast staple for a meal that will make you feel fuller, longer.
Elevate appetizers. On its own, cottage cheese can be a little meh. But it brings creamy texture and a subtle tang to dips and spreads for an instant upgrade. Start with these recipes.
Supplement your sweet treats. Blend it into brownie batter for added fluffiness. Or try this no-bake cookie treat — which you’ll definitely want to add to your ice cream.

Are seasonal allergies actually getting worse — or does it just feel that way?

Featured Expert

Priya Bansal, MD

A triple-board-certified allergy, asthma, and immunology specialist at the Asthma and Allergy Wellness Center in St Charles, IL, and a Castle Connolly Top Doctor.

"Seasonal allergies are worsening, and it really does feel that way! Pollen seasons are lasting longer — on average two to three weeks longer since the ’90s. Simultaneously, pollen counts have increased over the past 20 to 30 years. This extra exposure is amplified in the home when pollen sticks to hair, clothing, and pets, or when we leave our windows open.

As we become more reactive year to year, we experience symptoms earlier in the season. So make sure to identify your allergies, keep windows closed during the season, and take an evening shower.”

PS: These natural remedies can help ease allergy symptoms — number seven surprised us.

Knee-d To Know

Spring tends to bring a surge of let’s get outside energy. Whether you’re training for a 5K or walking to the coffee shop, your knees do most of the work, so it’s worth it to check in on how they’re holding up.

Because here’s the thing: Hormone shifts in the lead-up to perimenopause and menopause can impact your joints, and you may notice it particularly when you come out of winter hibernation mode.

But you don’t want to “power through” knee pain. Start with the basics: Supportive shoes matter more than you may think. Then balance your cardio with strength training (think glutes, quads, and hips) to help your body better absorb impact and reduce strain on your major joints. And if you’re approaching peri, know that running or high-impact workouts might feel different. That’s your cue to adjust your approach.

No Pressure

No time to cook? That’s where your pressure cooker clocks in. It does the heavy lifting while you do… anything else. Translation: less “what’s for dinner?” drama, more meals on the table, plus options for busy weeknights and grab-and-go lunches.

Instant Pot

Instant Pot 7.5QT Rio Wide 7-in-1 Electric Multi-Cooker is the best multifunction electric pressure cooker.

Fissler

Fissler Vitavit Premium Pressure Cooker is the best stovetop pressure cooker.

Cosori

Cosori 6.0-Quart Pressure Cooker is the best budget-friendly pressure cooker.

Tupperware

Tupperware Microwave Pressure Cooker is the best microwaveable pressure cooker.

Here’s the full list of the best pressure cookers for every situation, according to experts.

Today's Recs For a Life Well-Lived

Meet your new mid-day pick-me-up. These sparkling electrolyte drinks are crisp, refreshing, and way more fun than another coffee. Bonus: snag a free sample pack with purchase.*

A big boob-friendly running bra that doesn't suck.

A Jello-like snack for adults that doesn't inclue added sweeteners or allergens.

A $12 squishy clip that's comfortable to wear while working out and driving.

Psst…love our recs? Follow @skimmshopping on Instagram for more products, gifts, and services that are actually worth the hype (and the price tag).

Forget jogging, try plogging