Well + Good

pulse check

Water, Water Everywhere

Confession from someone who writes about health for a living: You’ll rarely find me without a diet soda in hand — it's my wellness blind spot. So when I came across a new study linking artificial sweeteners to cognitive decline, I paused mid-sip… then kept drinking. I’m just not ready to trade my emotional support soft drink for a Stanley cup.

And because the research followed adults whose average age was 52, I’m (delusionally) hoping I can suspend reality a little longer. For now, I’m focused on other ways to make smarter hydration choices that don’t require me to quit cold turkey:

This true-or-false quiz reminded me that some hydration myths are surprisingly hard to shake.
While I do want microplastic-free water, I'm still not convinced I need the internet's new favorite “wellness girl accessory.”
I have similar reservations about “stacked water” and whether or not it just makes your pee more expensive.
But by far the best hydration news I read all week: Coffee still counts… though there are a few catches.

— Anna “See Ya in the Restroom Line” Davies, writer

Well, well, well

What's Making the Rounds

Relationship experts say it's time to talk AI boundaries with your partner.

When faced with an impossible to-do list, an "if/then" plan can help push through procrastination, without the anxiety spiral.

The latest cervical cancer guidelines are good news for anyone who dreads a pap smear.

Is "rejection therapy" ego-bruising or the nervous system reset you need? You won't know until you make one of these wild requests.

What does “do your own research” really mean? One biostatistician explains how to actually put in the work.

Not all heartburn meds work the same: The best OTC option depends on your specific symptoms.

in our rotation

The easiest way to remove body hair at home.

A new gel moisturizer from a derm-developed brand we love.

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well aware

Got Metabolic Health?

It sounds like a marketing catchall from a certain bygone era of green-boxed snack cookies. But “metabolic health” refers to a real aspect of our health — one few of us learned about in school. A new survey from our sister site, Everyday Health, found that nearly half the population has never heard of it or doesn’t really know what it means.

One major misconception: Metabolic health is not just about how fast you burn calories. It's a zoomed-out snapshot of how well your body regulates blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol, triglycerides, and where you carry fat. If at least three of these markers are out of range, you may have metabolic syndrome, a diagnosis that significantly raises your risk for heart disease and diabetes. So while weight is part of the picture, experts say it's far from the whole story.

Despite the integral role metabolic health plays in overall well-being, even doctors may not prioritize it: The same report found that some of its key markers don't come up in a routine physical unless you ask.

Three Questions To Bring to Your Next Appointment:

Can we talk about muscle mass? Muscle mass is about more than strength. It helps regulate blood sugar and supports bone health. One of the best ways to measure it is with a body composition scan. These assessments usually begin at age 65, but if you're postmenopausal, have a family history of osteoporosis, or have certain medical conditions, ask whether you should get one sooner.
Do my triglyceride numbers seem OK to you? These levels are one of the five official markers of metabolic syndrome. Testing typically only requires a blood draw, usually done fasting, and often bundled into a routine cholesterol test. Even if your numbers are “within range,” your doctor may want to talk diet tweaks if your triglycerides are elevated or trend upward.
Are there any concerns about my HDL levels? Your doctor may not flag a low HDL number on its own if your overall lipid panel comes back normal. But you need a certain amount of HDL to carry excess cholesterol out of your bloodstream and back to your liver, where your body can flush it out. Simple diet and lifestyle changes can help increase yours.

the more you know

What is a “super-ager”?

Someone over 65 who exercises daily and eats a Mediterranean diet

Someone genetically predisposed to live past 100

Someone over 80 whose memory performs like someone 20-30 years younger

A millennial who survived the Great Recession and the COVID-19 lockdown

Well Reviewed

Eye Need This

If your eyes have been working overtime, consider this their PTO. These futuristic eye massagers look a little goofy, but they feel incredible — and force you to stop staring at a screen for once.

Therabody

Therabody SmartGoggles are the best option for headaches and sinus pressure.

Homedics

Homedics Eye Massager is the best heated option.

Bob and Brad

Bob and Brad EyeFlow Eye Massager is the best option for puffiness and dark circles.

RENPHO

RENPHO x Headspace Eyeris Zen Eye Massager is the best option for digital eye strain.

Here’s the full list of the best eye massagers, according to doctors.

In Our Rotation

The original exercise dress that's ideal for hot days and long walks.

Some facial patches for fading dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

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

just one thing

A Cancer-Prevention Conversation to Have With Your OB-GYN

Researchers now believe most ovarian cancers — that includes nearly all of the deadliest cases — actually begin in a different part of the reproductive tract. That discovery has led experts to call for a new name and broader access to a prevention strategy.

The procedure, called a salpingectomy, removes the fallopian tubes and may reduce ovarian cancer risk by roughly 80%. Rather than being done on its own, it's usually added to another planned abdominal or pelvic surgery. It also means pregnancy would require IVF, so it’s generally considered for people who are done having children or don’t plan to.

What to ask your doctor: Already scheduled for an abdominal surgery like a hysterectomy, gallbladder removal, or hernia repair? Ask whether a salpingectomy should be added. The answer will depend on your age, family plans, and future cancer risk. Then check with your insurer to find out whether the procedure would be covered.

Well Fed

Hydration, But Make it Dessert

Yes, watermelon is over 90% water, so it's an easy hydration win when it's 95 degrees out. But it's also loaded with lycopene, the antioxidant that gives it that red color, which research links to lower risks of heart disease and eye issues. Add Vitamin C and antioxidants, and it’s not just good, it’s good for you. Here, three ways to serve it.

Crispy watermelon

Salt and sear slices like you would a steak. Sounds unhinged, tastes incredible — the char brings out the sugars while the inside stays juicy.

Watermelon “ice cream”

This no-churn version has gone viral for using condensed milk to get that scoopable texture without an ice cream maker. Dairy-free? Swap in coconut milk instead — still creamy, still three ingredients.

Watermelon "pizza”

Slice a watermelon round, then top it like an actual pizza — Greek yogurt as the "sauce," granola for crunch, more fruit for good measure, for the most aesthetically pleasing breakfast you'll eat on vacation.

Well Traveled

At-Home Resort Workouts

One of the best parts of a wellness trip?

Trying a workout you’d never book at home. Resorts and spas have a knack for giving familiar movements a glow-up. Consider these three ways to shake up your routine, no robe or cucumber water required.

What it is: Rucking

Beloved by Oprah, it involves hiking or strolling with weight on your back, which can help turn an everyday walk into a strength-and-cardio combo. Walking with your oversize backpack counts, but a weighted vest or rucking pack are better for one big reason.

What it is: Aqua HIIIT

It’s essentially water aerobics with intervals — short bursts of harder effort followed by recovery. The water adds resistance while keeping things relatively gentle on your joints. Bookmark this 20-minute, no-laps workout for your next pool day.

What it is: Bocce

The lawn game you’ve seen played outside boutique hotels is low-key, low-impact, and sneakily strategic. You’ll walk, squat, coordinate your throws, and give your brain a little challenge too.

Not saying no to “rejection therapy”