Category: Makeup

  • 3 Weight Loss Khichdis To Add in Your Diet

    3 Weight Loss Khichdis To Add in Your Diet





    Have you heard this quote before “Khichdi ke chaar yaar, dahi, papad, ghee aur achaar!” Khichdi is the ultimate comfort food for many of us and along with curd, papad, ghee, and pickle – it makes for a delicious treat. Khichidi is a one pot dish that is highly nutritious too with the right combination of rice, lentils, vegetables, and spices. The traditional Khichdi recipe comprises rice, lentils (such as yellow moong dal), ghee or oil, cumin seeds, turmeric powder, salt, and water. Lentils and rice are cooked together until soft, then tempered with cumin seeds in ghee or oil for flavor. Optional vegetables and spices like ginger and garlic can be added. Serve hot with a garnish of ghee. But since we are talking about weight loss here, check out these 3 weight loss khichdis to add in your diet from today.

    3 Weight Loss Khichdis To Add in Your Diet

    1. Moong Dal and Brown Rice Khichdi:

    To prepare Moong Dal and Brown Rice Khichdi, start by rinsing 1 cup of brown rice and 1/2 cup of split yellow moong dal until the water runs clear. In a pressure cooker or large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil and add 1 teaspoon of cumin seeds to splutter. Optionally, sauté chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or spinach. Then, add the drained rice and dal along with 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder and salt to taste. Pour in enough water (around 3-4 cups) to cover the mixture and cook until soft and mushy, either by pressure cooking for 4-5 whistles or simmering for 30-40 minutes. Adjust the consistency if needed and serve hot with a dollop of ghee. Enjoy this wholesome Moong Dal and Brown Rice Khichdi!

    2. Quinoa Vegetable Khichdi:

    To prepare Quinoa Vegetable Khichdi, rinse 1 cup of quinoa and chop 1/2 cup of mixed vegetables. In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of ghee or oil, add 1 teaspoon each of cumin seeds and mustard seeds, then sauté the vegetables until slightly softened. Stir in the quinoa and toast for a few minutes. Add 1/2 teaspoon each of turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt to taste, mixing well. Pour in around 2 cups of water or vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Garnish with coriander leaves and lemon juice if desired before serving. Also read: “8 High-Protein Dals and Pulses For Weight Loss.”

    3. Oats and Spinach Khichdi:

    To prepare Oats and Spinach Khichdi, heat ghee or oil in a pan and sauté cumin seeds until they splutter. Add finely chopped onion, ginger-garlic paste, green chili, and tomato, cooking until softened. Stir in turmeric powder, ground cumin, ground coriander, and salt, then add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Add rolled oats and enough water or vegetable broth to cover, bringing it to a boil before simmering for 5-7 minutes until the oats are cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.

    For complete weight loss diet plans to lose weight, download and subscribe to the Rati Beauty app.

    4 Best Rice Options To Enjoy Your Dal Chawal
    8 High-Protein Dals and Pulses For Weight Loss





  • YENSA Luxe Lip Oil Review & Swatch

    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil Review & Swatch

    *Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

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    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil Review & Swatch

    I recently discovered this brand which fuses together expertise from Korea, France, and Los Angeles, and I was really keen to get to know it. Here is the lowdown here on the YENSA Luxe Lip Oil.

    What is YENSA Luxe Lip Oil?

    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil
    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil
    • Tinted lip oil
    • Made with our YENSA’s SuperOil blend
    • Delivers moisture, a lightweight nourishing shine, and colour
    • Non-sticky texture
    • Helps minimise the appearance of fine lines
    • Available in 8 shades

    Key Ingredients

    • COCONUT OIL – helps to improve elasticity and collagen production
    • VITAMIN E OIL – provides moisture to deeply nourish dry or irritated skin
    • RICE BRAN OIL – promotes hydration to keep lips feeling comfortable all day long
    • AVOCADO SEED OIL – replenishes chapped skin and protects against skin damage
    • CARROT SEED OIL – to improve texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines
    • CHIA SEED OIL – prevents dryness and calms irritation
    • BLACK SESAME SEED OIL – moisturises with anti-inflammatory benefits
    • FLAXSEED OIL – smooths and moisturises

    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil Swatch

    I have the Pink Shine shade, here’s a swatch for you:

    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil Pink Shine Swatch
    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil Pink Shine Swatch

    My Review

    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil packaging and doe-foot
    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil packaging and doe-foot

    I love a lip oil and this YENSA Luxe Lip Oil in shade Pink Shine has the most luxurious texture and imparts the lips with high shine. The scent really reminds me of my old Lancome Juicy Tubes in watermelon and it really takes me back to the good old days!

    This formula is super nourishing, so if you suffer with dry lips (like most of us) you will find this very soothing and comforting. It is really nice used alone or over a lip colour.

    I also really like the packaging.

    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil packaging
    YENSA Luxe Lip Oil packaging

    You can see it in action over a matte lipstick in this Instagram Reel I made:

    As you will see, it give such a gorgeous glossy and juicy look.

    If you love a shiny lip, make sure you check out the latest launch from Lady Gaga’s brand, Haus Labs. Read: Haus Labs PHD Hybrid Lip Glaze Review & Swatches.

    Where to buy it

    You can buy the YENSA Luxe Lip Oil via the following links:

  • 9 Ways To Target Body Fat Without Gym

    9 Ways To Target Body Fat Without Gym





    Lots of folks think gym is the only place that can help them get rid of all extra and get lean. But for a majority of people the thought of hitting the gym is intimidating and sweating profusely doing endless hours of cardio is certainly not their cup of tea – so they procastinate the whole idea of hitting the gym. But the good news is that gym is not the only place that would help you get rid of all that extra fat – there are much more simpler and easier ways. The main idea is to eat fewer calories than your body needs. This forces your body to use stored fat for energy since it’s not getting enough energy from the food you eat every day. And there are so many do-able and effective ways to do so, even without stepping into the gym. Here are 9 ways to target body fat without gym.

    Ways To Target Body Fat Without Gym

    1. Zero Sugar Approach – Remove Sugars in Every Form:

    The “Zero Sugar Approach” means getting rid of sugars from everything you eat in your daily diet. This means not only avoiding adding refined sugar to tea/coffee and avoiding sweets, it also means checking labels on foods to make sure they don’t have any hidden sugars. High-fructose corn syrup, sucrose, dextrose, maltose, fructose are sugars that are commonly added in packaged snacks, cookies, candies, chocolates, sauces, and certain other snacks. It takes effort to train your taste buds to enjoy foods without added sugars. This approach would not only help you lose weight, it would give you more energy, lower your chances of getting diseases like diabetes, etc.

    2. Reducing Snacking Temptations – Limiting Namkeen, Chips, and Fried Foods:

    Reducing snacking temptations means cutting back on the urge to snack on unhealthy foods like namkeen, chips, and fried snacks frequently. Instead of munching on these foods, it’s about choosing healthier options like fruits and nuts. This helps you avoid consuming too many calories and unhealthy fats. When you limit namkeen, chips, and fried foods, you’re making a conscious effort to eat less of them. It’s also a fact that we tend to turn towards namkeen and chips when we are anxious or bored, and snack on them mindlessly even when not hungry. Don’t eliminate these snacks completely, instead reduce their consumption, by doing so, you can still enjoy your favorite snacks occasionally while taking care of your health in the long run and without gaining weight.

    3. Practice Portion Control – Key to Calorie Deficit Success:

    Portion control plays a crucial role in achieving a calorie deficit by managing the amount of food consumed during each meal. When we practice portion control, we can control calorie intake more effectively, which can lead to weight loss. By controlling portion sizes, people can still enjoy a variety of foods while ensuring they consume fewer calories overall. This practice helps prevent overeating.

    4. Walking Towards Weight Loss: The 10,000 Steps Goal Daily:

    Taking 10,000 steps each day can be a simple and effective way to help you lose weight. Walking is a form of exercise that almost anyone can do and without running out of breath! It doesn’t require any special equipment or expensive gym memberships. One key tip to weight loss is to increase your physical activity level, which can boost your metabolism and burn calories. This helps create a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight loss. Walking would also improve your overall health. Set a target to reach a goal of 10,000 steps a day. Here are a few tips – walk to work instead of driving, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or going for a brisk walk during your lunch break. You can also get up and take mini strolls every half an hour to reach your target. Nowadays, it’s easy to track total steps taken – smart watches and health app on your phone can do that work for you. Watching your step count increase each day can be encouraging and make you more likely to stick with your walking routine.

    5. Increase Protein and Fiber Intake:

    Increasing protein and fiber intake can be crucial for weight loss. Protein builds and maintains muscles which is important for boosting metabolism and burning calories efficiently. Fiber aids in digestion and promotes feelings of fullness, which can prevent overeating and help control calorie intake. Incorporate protein-rich foods such as chicken, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and tofu into meals, along with fiber-packed options like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Opt for whole grains to increase fiber intake and promote satiety. Planning balanced meals with a focus on protein and fiber sources can be such a gamechanger – you can find such diet plans on the Rati Beauty diet. Download and subscribe to access our Speed Slim diet plans.

    6. Integrating Essential Nutrients into Your Weight Loss Diet Plan:

    Did you know that nutrients like vitamin D, calcium, B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and chromium play crucial roles in supporting weight loss efforts. Vitamin D helps regulate appetite and fat storage, while calcium is important for fat metabolism. B vitamins are essential for a robust metabolism. Iron supports oxygen transport, crucial for energy production during exercise. Magnesium helps regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, while chromium plays a role in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. So, do not crash diet, eat a balanced diet to get adequate intake of these nutrients to boost weight loss.

    7. Try HIIT Home Workouts:

    Home HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) workouts are an effective way to achieve weight loss goals without needing to go to the gym. These workouts involve short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief periods of rest or lower-intensity activity. They can be performed in the comfort of your own home withou any equipment. Exercises such as jumping jacks, squats, lunges, burpees, and high knees, increase metabolism and burn a whole lot of calories for hours after the exercise session, promoting fat loss.

    8. Finding Your Passion – Hobbies That Double as Fat-Burning Activities:

    Indulge in enjoyable pastimes that contribute to fat loss, including dancing, Zumba, hiking, martial arts, and even yoga. Dancing and Zumba infuse fun into workouts with energetic movements set to music, while hiking provides an opportunity to explore nature while burning calories. Martial arts not only enhance physical fitness but also cultivate discipline and focus. Even yoga, known for its gentle and mindful approach, can effectively contribute to calorie burning and fat loss when practiced dynamically. By incorporating these hobbies into your routine, you can achieve your fitness goals without feeling like you’re punishing yourself, making the journey to a healthier lifestyle more enjoyable and sustainable. Also read: “10 Amazing Weight Loss Tips For Women.”

    9. Sleep Well and Stress Less:

    Getting enough sleep and keeping stress low are super important if you want to lose weight. Adequate sleep is crucial for maintaining a healthy metabolism and regulating appetite hormones. When you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger, and less leptin, a hormone that signals fullness. This imbalance can lead to overeating and weight gain. Additionally, lack of sleep can increase cravings for unhealthy, high-calorie foods, making it harder to stick to a balanced diet. Moreover, chronic stress triggers the release of cortisol, a stress hormone that can promote fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. Elevated cortisol levels can also lead to cravings for sugary and fatty foods, further sabotaging weight loss efforts. Therefore, prioritizing quality sleep and implementing stress-reduction techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and regular exercise are essential for managing weight effectively. By ensuring adequate sleep and minimizing stress, individuals can optimize their metabolism, regulate appetite, and make healthier choices, ultimately facilitating weight loss.

    In conclusion, the misconception that the gym is the sole solution for weight loss can deter a lot of people from startign on their weight loss journey. By prioritizing a calorie deficit through dietary modifications and adopting lifestyle changes, such as reducing sugar intake, controlling portion sizes, and incorporating more physical activity into daily routines, significant progress can be made without ever setting foot in a gym.

    10 High-Protein Breakfast Ideas For Weight Loss
    10 Amazing Weight Loss Tips For Women





  • Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Review & Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Review & Swatches

    *Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

    Lisa Eldridge logo

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    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Review & Swatches

    I always get excited about anything to do with Lisa Eldridge, and with a new obsession with lip pencils, I was so excited to get my hands on the Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil. I have the range of shades here with photos and swatches.

    What is Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil?

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil
    • Soft-focus lip pencil in skin-true, natural lip tones
    • Blurring, matte finish
    • Easy to use
    • Designed to sculpt and shade your desired lip
    • Formula blends seamlessly on to the lip
    • Lightweight, moisturising formula
    • Resists feathering or fading
    • Free from parabens, mineral oils, micro-plastics, silicones or fragrance.  
    • Comes with a new Lisa Eldridge sharpener
    • Available in 10 shades

    Key Benefits

    • Weightless, precise liner with super soft  blendable texture 
    • Matte, soft-focus finish  
    • Even colour and anti-feathering properties 
    • Formulated with naturally-derived emollient waxes for maximum comfort and moisturising properties

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Shades & Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Shades
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Shades

    There are ten shades in the collection divided into three categories:

    • Four Neutrals – 0N, 1N, 2N and 3N to flatter and compliment ALL skin tones, ranging in tone from Cafe au Lait to Rich Deep Brown  
    • Three Cool – 1C, 2C and 3C to flatter and compliment cool skin tones, ranging in tone from Light Pink to Rich Berry 
    • Three Warm – 1W, 2W and 3W to flatter and compliment warm skin tones, ranging in tone from Peachy Light Tan to Rich Terracotta 

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Neutral Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Neutral Shades
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Neutral Shades
    • 0N
    • 1N
    • 2N
    • 3N (sorry no swatch!)
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Neutral Shades Swatches
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Neutral Shades Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Cool Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Cool Shades
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Cool Shades
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Cool Shades Swatches
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Cool Shades Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Warm Swatches

    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Warm Shades
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Warm Shades
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Warm Shades Swatches
    Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencil Warm Shades Swatches

    My Review

    I never used to use lip pencils, but of late, I really do appreciate the benefits of them for creating subtle volume and definition, and enhancing the look of any lip colour.

    These pencils are all about staying true to your skin tone, for a really natural looking and flattering result. I have a neutral skin tone, so the N shades will work best for me, and I really love the 2N shade I tried at the launch event for quite a defined and enhanced lip look that still look naturally flattering.

    Here’s a video of it being applied:

    The texture of these lip pencils is firm enough to really help shape and sculpt the lip line, yet blendable enough to be smoothed and blurred over the lip. I like that you can sketch on to the skin around the lip line and the pencil still really holds its shape.

    It such a great idea to classify lip liner shades that correlate to skin tone. I have been experimenting with lip liners quite a bit recently, and although I always choose shades I like, I can sometimes end up with a bit of a fake look which I suppose will be down to the undertone of the shade I have chosen.

    I think I will still be able to use the cool and warm shades, as well as the neutral ones which technically suit me the best, so if I want a change in colour and tone, I will go for those as they are all lovely shades.

    The finish is a lovely blurry matte, which is really flattering and doesn’t sink into fine lines, and the colour lasts really well. They are fab!

    Lisa Eldridge sharpener
    Lisa Eldridge sharpener

    Also great that they come with a sharpener too. I am always looking for a sharpener!!

    If you haven’t quite found the shade you are looking for here, check out the new liners from Hourglass. Read: Hourglass Shape and Sculpt Lip Liner Review & Swatches.

    Where to buy them

    The Lisa Eldridge Sculpt and Shade Lip Pencils are £20 each and available via the following links:

  • Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo Review

    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo Review

    *Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

    ruby hammer logo

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    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo Review

    I was really keen to try out the Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo because it has the teeniest, tiniest brushes that look super precise. I have been testing it out. Check out my review and before and after photos.

    What is Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo?

    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo
    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo
    • Double ended mascara and brow wand
    • Uses multi-peptide infused conditioning formulas
    • Features micro wands to coats every lash and hair
    • Includes a black mascara and clear brow gel
    • Available for £28 at Amazon*

    Key Ingredients

    MASCARA – infused with caffeine, copper tri-peptides, hydrolyzed hyaluronic acid, tri-peptides and pentapeptides to strengthen your lashes with each wear

    BROW – enriched with nourishing and fortifying actives to condition the brow hairs and promote a fuller appearance

    Before and After Photos

    ruby hammer mascara brow duo review before photo
    Before
    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo - after photo
    After Photo

    Just in case you’re wondering, the blue is one of the new VB eyeshadow sticks. For more info read: Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Eyeshadow Stick – NEW SHADES 2024.

    My Review

    Ruby Hammer Mascara Wand
    Ruby Hammer Mascara Wand

    I love how fine the brush is on this mascara. It makes getting soft, fluttery lashes an absolute cinch without any risk of clumping. You can easily lengthen the look of the lashes without adding bulk, and it’s great for separating out each lash for a soft wide-eyed look.

    It doesn’t smudge or flake and stays in place really well throughout the day. It is a tubing formula so you can rinse it away with warm water, however, I find it comes off nicely with an oil cleanser.

    I really like that it is infused with conditioning ingredients to strengthen lashes over time too. I haven’t used it enough to comment on how this works, but it definitely doesn’t dry out the lashes.

    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Dup - Brow Gel
    Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo – Brow Gel

    Again the brow gel is really easy to use because it has a super fine brush and the gel is clear. It really effectively lifts up brow hairs and fixes them in place. It sets quite firmly and you can feel a stiffness in the hairs which lasts all day and holds them up well.

    If you need more definition or to fill any gaps, you may need to use a pencil first.

    The Ruby Hammer Mascara & Brow Duo is a really handy piece of kit and a great every day product to keep in your makeup bag.

    Shop it here at Amazon* for £28.

  • Would Drinking Water on Empty Stomach Lead To Weight Loss?

    Would Drinking Water on Empty Stomach Lead To Weight Loss?





    Each morning, as the sun rises, there’s a ritual that people around the globe follow – sipping on a cup of tea or coffee, usually while still lying on the bed. For many, this daily indulgence isn’t merely about sipping on a hot cup of beverage, it’s also a pause before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. However, experts suggest starting your day with a boost of caffeine is not an ideal way to kickstart your day. So, what’s the other way? Water! It’s the elixir of life and experts suggest having at least 8 glasses of water in a day, or 2 liters, but would drinking water on empty stomach lead to weight loss? Besides aiding in the efficient breakdown of food, absorption of nutrients, and elimination of waste, water plays a crucial role in weight loss. There’s speculation regarding whether drinking water on an empty stomach promotes weight loss, so let’s explore whether this theory holds any water or not.

    Would Drinking Water on Empty Stomach Lead To Weight Loss

    Why Water is Important in Weight Loss?

    Water acts as a natural appetite suppressant. Have you heard about water preloading? Water preloading involves drinking 500 ml of plain water 30 minutes before each meal (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). This practice stretches the stomach, reducing the release of the hunger hormone “ghrelin,” resulting in feeling fuller with less food and fewer calories consumed. Staying hydrated helps with weight loss as many of us often mistake thirst for hunger, and we often reach for more food instead of water to quench those signals.

    Would Drinking Water on Empty Stomach Lead To Weight Loss?

    Popular in Japan, it’s called the “Japanese Water Therapy,” where individuals drink water immediately upon waking up in the morning, before doing any other activity. Here’s the method – Drink 1 to 2 glasses of water that’s neither too hot nor too cold on empty stomach, even before brushing your teeth. Avoid any kind of food or beverage up to 45 minutes after drinking water. This practice is believed to promote metabolism, aid in digestion, and also boost weight loss.

    Here’s how water on empty stomach is believed to help with weight loss:

    1. Clears Out Toxins: Water first thing in the morning aids in the elimination process, flushes out toxins. We need almost 3 liters of water per day to drain out the toxic substances from our body, but most people do not even manage to drink even 3 glasses of plain water in a day. And it’s a good idea to start the day with a big glass of water.

    2. Helps Curb Appetite: Did you know dehydration can make people to feel hungry and seek out food to satiate those signals. It’s relatively common for people to confuse thirst for hunger signals, and we tend to eat more food when actually we should just be sipping on a glass of water to silence those signals. Another mistake we do is to reach out for sugary beverages instead of plain water, and this practice can increase the calorie count by a great degree. So, sipping on water first thing in the morning is a good way to hydrate the body and curb appetite.

    3. It’s a Zero Calorie Drink: Unlike tea and coffee, water is a zero-calorie drink. It does not cause blood sugar spike or insulin jump.

    4. Boosts Fat Burning: Since 60% of human body is composed of water, it should not come as a surprise that water is necessary to run all functions, and the same is applicable for fat burning. The first step in the process of lipolysis (metabolizing of fat) is hydrolysis, which occurs when water molecules interact with triglycerides (fats). That’s why drinking enough water is essential for the fat-burning process to run smoothly. And if you decide to flush the body with water earlier in the day, better it becomes at fat burning.

    So, in conclusion, swap that mandatory cup of bed coffee or tea the moment you wake up with a warm glass of water to activate internal organs and to flush out toxins. Since you wake up dehydrated after a prolonged period of sleep, it needs a good amount of water to rehydrate and boost metabolism and also helps in cleansing out the system. For effective diet plans to lose weight, download and subscribe to the Rati Beauty app.

    Can I Lose Weight By Eating 1000 Calories in a Day?
    Would Exercising on Empty Stomach Burn More Calories?





  • Can You Have Chips While Trying To Lose Weight?

    Can You Have Chips While Trying To Lose Weight?





    People often ask this question, “Can we eat potato chips while on a weight loss diet?” After all, there cannot be too many calories in a small packet of chips, right? We understand how hard to resist the temptation digging into a packet of crunchy, flavourful chips. Now, here’s an interesting fact – did you know people often turn to chips when under stress or anxiety, and the flavourful taste of potato chips can act as a temporary distraction. Likewise, when we are feeling hungry in between meals, a bag of chips can act as a saviour. These chips are also a popular choice for on-the-go snacking due to their longer shelf life, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. Now, coming back to the question, can you have chips while trying to lose weight? We have got the answer below:

    Can You Have Chips While Trying To Lose Weight

    Let’s delve into the main ingredients that make potato chips savoury and delicious: A popular brand of potato chips has these main ingredients – potato, edible vegetable oil, salt, sugar, dextrose, among others.

    The main ingredient potato contains carbohydrates derived from starch, which is the main component of potatoes. When potatoes are fried to make chips, the starch undergoes a process known as gelatinization, which changes its structure and texture. Gelatinized starch is also considered more likely to cause obesity than normal starch. Gelatinized starches can cause elevated blood glucose, diabetes, and obesity as the calories are readily available in simple form. Experts recommend to cut down on foods with gelatinized starches to reduce the risk factors of high blood glucose, diabetes, and obesity.

    Apart from starch, potato chips may also contain small amounts of simple carbohydrates in the form of sugars. These sugars can come from the natural sugars present in potatoes or added sugars in flavored or seasoned varieties of potato chips.

    Apart from sugar, commercially-available potato chips also have another sugar “dextrose.” According to Webmd, consuming excessive amounts of dextrose can lead to various short and long-term effects. And one obvious outcome is weight gain. Since the body metabolizes dextrose rapidly, any excess sugar that is available gets stored as fat. Overconsumption of dextrose can therefore contribute to fat accumulation.

    It’s important to note that while un-processed potatoes are a source of carbohydrates, the frying process to make potato chips adds quite a lot of fat from the oil used for frying. This means that potato chips are typically high in both carbs, sugar, and fat, making them a calorie-dense and hyperpalatable snack.

    Another ingredient that’s worth mentioning is “sodium,” which causes water retention. Consumption of too much sodium-rich food can make you drink less water and intensify cravings and hunger, which could further lead to overeating and weight gain.

    What is a Hyperpalatable Food?

    Potato chips fall into the hyperpalatable category. Hyperpalatable food are often engineered to be extremely appealing to the senses, containing a combination of ingredients that are high in sugar, fat, salt, and other flavor-enhancing additives. The goal of hyperpalatable foods is to create a sensation of intense pleasure and satisfaction upon consumption, which can lead to overeating and potentially contribute to issues such as obesity and other health problems. This continuous cycle of craving, overconsumption, and weight gain is perpetuated by what’s known as the “bliss point” – a meticulously calibrated and engineered combination of ingredients that maximizes the food’s appeal so that individuals even when full, crave for more of such food, detrimental to weight loss and overall health.

    Summing up, as mentioned above, we turn to a bag of potato chips as a remedy to fight cravings, boredom, stress relief, and to get a quick energy boost. However, this seemingly innocent snack may be a significant contributor to weight gain and obesity. Being a hyperpalatable food with ingredients such as gelatinized starch, sugar, fat, dextrose, can make it difficult to lose weight. So, it’s not recommended to rely on potato chips as a snack on a diet, instead popcorn (without butter), fresh fruits, whole grain crackers, apple slices with peanut butter, nuts are better choices. For effective weight loss diet plans, download and subscribe to the Rati Beauty app.

    Bliss Point and Why We Can’t Stop Eating Certain Foods
    12 Healthier Alternatives to Potato Chips





  • ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Review & Swatches

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Review & Swatches

    *Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

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    Priced at

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Review & Swatches

    I love a foundation stick, so I was very keen to test out the new ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick which launched recently in the UK. I have found my shade match and have swatches and before and after photos for you to check out.

    What is ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick?

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Packaging
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Packaging
    • Weightless complexion stick
    • Offers foundation, concealer, and skincare in an all-in-one product
    • Buildable, medium coverage
    • Natural matte finish
    • Up to 12 hour coverage
    • Works to blur pores, reduce redness and texture
    • Includes anti-aging ingredients help firm, smooth, and soften the appearance of lines and wrinkles
    • Available in 42 shades

    Key Ingredients

    Ceramide-Peptide Complex – visibly firms and strengthens the skin barrier

    Winged Kelp Extract – restores luminosity, helping skin look more youthful

    Butterfly Lavender Extract – smooths the look of fine lines and wrinkles

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Shades and Swatches

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Shades - 4N, 9N, 22C, 28N, 36C
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Shades – 4N, 9N, 22C, 28N, 36C

    There are 42 shades in the collection in total. I have five of them to show you here.

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Shades
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Shades

    Swatches below are:

    • 4N Holly
    • 9H Tupelo
    • 22C Sugi
    • 28N Mora
    • 36C Padauk
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Swatches
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick Swatches

    Before and After Photos

    I played with a few shades and selected shade 9N Tupelo as my best match. I always get on the best with neutral foundation shades and this one pretty much disappears into my natural skin tone.

    For reference, my shade in the ILIA Super Serum Skin Tint SPF30 is 7. The shades in the ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick don’t correlate with the skin tint shades which is important to note.

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick - Before Photo
    Before
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick After Photo 9N
    After Photo – Shade 9N Tupelo

    My Review of ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick 9N Tupelo
    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick 9N Tupelo

    I always really enjoy using a foundation stick because they are just so easy to use and to top up when you need it. Just a few swipes and a quick blend and you’re good to go.

    I think my favourite stick foundation so far was the bareMinerals Complexion Rescue Foundation Stick. It was so hydrating and dewy and just melted into the skin. People didn’t talk about it enough and I have a horrible feeling that it has been discontinued. I really don’t understand what is going on with bareMinerals, they had so many brilliant products but it just doesn’t seem to be going in the right direction.

    I have to say that the new ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is very similar in terms of it’s skincare focus and the shade range. It has come along just in the nick of time.

    The bareMinerals felt more watery and was very dewy, whereas the ILIA formula is slightly thicker in texture and more matte in finish. Although it is not a flat matte and still allows the skin to show its natural radiance.

    ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is great on pores and it really does blur their appearance and make the skin look much more smooth. It is easy to blend and build and it can be effortlessly layered up in areas that you need a bit more coverage.

    Thanks to its soft matte finish, the formula clings to the skin really well and stays in place nicely. I found it lasted really well on my combination skin. I have a tiny bit of a cold and was using tissues, and I just needed a little top up around my nose.

    The formula is nice and forgiving on the delicate eye area and so doubles really well as an undereye concealer. It cover redness and pigmentation well and is a really good multi-tasker.

    What skin type is Skin Rewind best for?

    ILIA say Skin Rewind was designed to be suitable for all skin types. I think it’s really great for oily skin types with it’s soft matte finish. Also, dry skins will love the skincare ingredients that work to strengthen the barrier.

    What is the difference between Skin Rewind Complexion Stick and Super Serum Skin Tint?

    The Skin Rewind stick has medium coverage and a natural-matte finish. The Super Serum Skin Tint is a liquid formula with light coverage and a dewy finish, plus SPF 30.

    Does Skin Rewind Stick work on dry skin?

    Although this has a matte finish, I think it will work really well on dry skins as it has lots of skincare and also a nice emollient formula. I think a light later of a rich moisturiser would be a great prep if you are worried about it not being dewy enough.

    What shade should you choose in the ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick?

    Is the ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick matte in finish?

    Yes this formula is designed to deliver a natural matte finish, however, it isn’t a flat matte and it allows the skin’s natural radiance to shine through.

    Is it good for mature skin?

    Yes the ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick will be great for mature skin types as it promises anti-ageing skincare benefits over time.

    Where to buy it

    The ILIA Skin Rewind Complexion Stick is £47 and available now via the following links:

  • 5 Delicious Ways To Have Chia Seeds in Breakfast

    5 Delicious Ways To Have Chia Seeds in Breakfast





    Chia seeds are renowned as a superfood in the realm of diet and nutrition since they are full of nutrients such as protein, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron. That’s the reason why chia seeds are extensively used in weight loss diets. Not only do chia seeds provide comprehensive nutrition, but their high fiber content also promotes satiety. Additionally, their rich protein content supports the body’s fat-burning mechanisms. If you’re contemplating on how to include chia seeds in your daily diet, we are going to show you some amazing ways to incorporate chia seeds into your weight loss journey. Let’s start with the most important meal of the day – breakfast. In this article, we show you 5 Delicious Ways To Have Chia Seeds in Breakfast.

    morning chia seeds

    Nutritional Profile of Chia Seeds:

    Chia seeds are like tiny nutritional powerhouses! Here’s what you get in just one ounce (about 28 grams):

    Calories: Around 138, giving you energy.
    Protein: About 4.7 grams, helping your muscles grow.
    Fat: Approximately 8.6 grams, but it’s mostly the good kind that’s good for your heart.
    Carbohydrates: Roughly 12.3 grams, but a big chunk of that is fiber.
    Fiber: A whopping 10.6 grams, which keeps your digestion happy.
    Calcium: About 179 milligrams, great for strong bones.
    Phosphorus: Around 265 milligrams, helping your body use energy.
    Magnesium: Approximately 95 milligrams, important for lots of body functions.
    Potassium: Roughly 115 milligrams, which keeps your heart and muscles working right.
    Iron: About 1.6 milligrams, important for blood health.
    Zinc: Approximately 1 milligram, which helps your immune system.
    And let’s not forget, chia seeds also have lots of antioxidants that are good for your health! So, these little seeds are a smart choice for adding nutrition to your meals.

    5 Delicious Ways To Have Chia Seeds in Breakfast:

    1. Chia Seed Muesli:

    Start your day right with Chia Seed Breakfast Muesli—a blend of chia seeds, rolled oats, chopped nuts, dried fruits, and a hint of cinnamon. This nutritious mix isn’t just about chia seeds; it’s packed with goodness from every ingredient. Rolled oats provide sustained energy, while nuts offer healthy fats and protein to keep you feeling full. Dried fruits add natural sweetness and essential vitamins, while cinnamon adds flavor without extra calories. Store it in an airtight container and enjoy with milk or yogurt for a satisfying breakfast that supports your weight loss goals.

    2. Chia Seed Breakfast Bars:

    Blend the nutritional power of chia seeds with oats, nuts, dried fruits, along with peanut butter or honey. This wholesome mix isn’t just about chia seeds — oats provide sustained energy, nuts offer healthy fats and protein to keep you satisfied, and dried fruits add natural sweetness and essential nutrients. Peanut butter or honey holds everything together, making it easy to shape into bars. Refrigerate until firm, then cut into bars for a convenient, on-the-go breakfast option that supports your weight loss journey. Also read: “Do Chia Seeds Reduce Belly Fat?”

    3. Chia Seed Banana Pancakes:

    Combine mashed ripe bananas with eggs, chia seeds, and a touch of cinnamon for a weight-loss-friendly breakfast option. This recipe goes beyond just chia seeds—bananas provide natural sweetness and fiber to keep you feeling full, while eggs offer high-quality protein for sustained energy. The addition of cinnamon adds flavor without extra calories and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Cook the batter until golden brown on both sides for a delicious and nutritious meal. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for added protein, a drizzle of honey for sweetness, and sliced bananas for extra freshness.

    4. Chia Seed Overnight Oats:

    Combine rolled oats with chia seeds, milk, yogurt, and a natural sweetener like honey for a weight-loss-friendly breakfast option bursting with goodness. While chia seeds add fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, rolled oats provide a hearty dose of fiber to keep you feeling full. Milk and yogurt contribute protein and calcium for muscle maintenance and bone health. Let the mixture sit in the fridge overnight, allowing the oats and chia seeds to absorb the liquid and soften. In the morning, indulge in creamy, nutrient-packed oats topped with your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds for added flavor and texture.

    5. Chia Seed Smoothie Bowl:

    Create a weight-loss-friendly smoothie bowl by blending together frozen fruits like berries or mango, a banana, spinach, chia seeds, and your preferred milk or yogurt until smooth. While chia seeds offer fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, spinach provides essential vitamins and minerals. The combination of fruits adds natural sweetness and antioxidants to support your health goals. Pour the smoothie into a bowl and top it with crunchy granola, fresh sliced fruits, and an extra sprinkle of chia seeds for added texture and nutrients.

    Summing up, incorporating chia seeds into your breakfast recipes can be a game-changer for your weight loss journey. These tiny seeds pack a powerful punch, offering a rich source of fiber, protein, and healthy fats, and thus contribute to feelings of fullness and satisfaction, helping to curb cravings and reduce overall calorie intake throughout the day. For more such recipes and detailed diet plans, download and subscribe the Rati Beauty app, available both android and playstore.

    Do Chia Seeds Reduce Belly Fat?
    How To Consume Chia Seeds For Weight Loss





  • Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear 3 NEW Shades Swatches

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear 3 NEW Shades Swatches

    *Links marked with asterisks are affiliate links, these help Ree with running costs of the blog

    victoria beckham beauty logo

    Priced at

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Eyeshadow Stick - NEW SHADES 2024 Review & Swatches

    Being a big fan of pretty much all of the VB makeup, I was very excited to learn that there are brand new shades in the Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick collection, Shroom, Ballet and Cornflower. I have swatches of all the shades here.

    What is Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear?

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick shades
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick shades
    • Pigment-rich, ultra-creamy eyeshadow stick
    • Buildable texture
    • Waterproof wear that lasts up to 8 hours
    • Tug-free application
    • Designed to blend seamlessly
    • No base needed
    • Available in 10 fashion shades and 2 finishes (see all swatches below)

    New Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Shades 2024

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Eyeshadow Stick - NEW SHADES 2024
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Eyeshadow Stick – NEW SHADES 2024

    There are three new shades of these shadow sticks for 2024:

    • Shroom – storm grey (shimmer finish)
    • Ballet – warm pink (shimmer finish)
    • Cornflower – sky blue (matte finish)

    See below for swatches.

    Key Ingredients

    • Vitas Vita – increases collagen synthesis for redensification. Energy-deprived skin is strongly improved, from skin elasticity to tonicity and firmness
    • Seaweed (Fucus) Oil – soothing emollient that has high antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity. Dissipates subcutaneous fat deposits on the lower portion of eyelid for smoother looking lids.

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Shades & Swatches

    With the new 2024 shade expansion,

    There are seven shades in the EyeWear eyeshadow stick collection. They are:

    • Shroom – shimmery storm grey (NEW)
    • Ballet – shimmery warm pink (NEW)
    • Cornflower – matte sky blue (NEW)
    • Oyster – shimmery pearl
    • Trench – matte beige
    • Caramel – shimmery bronze
    • Bottle Green – shimmery deep khaki green
    • Pecan – matte deep brown
    • Macaron – matte lilac
    • Sunflower – matte mustard yellow
    Shroom Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear
    Shroom
    Ballet Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear
    Ballet
    Cornflower Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear
    Cornflower Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Oyster
    Oyster
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Trench
    Trench
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Caramel
    Caramel
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Bottle Green
    Bottle Green
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Pecan
    Pecan

    If you are looking for a good dupe of the Pecan Victoria Beckham Beauty Eyewear shade, make sure you check out my REESON Beauty Bronzing Balm in Bronze Intense.*

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Macaron
    Macaron
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Sunflower
    Sunflower

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Swatches

    I have swatched all the shades for you.

    Here are the new shades of the Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear formula swatched – Shroom, Ballet, Cornflower:

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Eyeshadow Stick - NEW SHADES 2024 Swatches
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Eyeshadow Stick – NEW SHADES 2024 Swatches

    Here is Oyster, Trench, Caramel, Bottle Green, Pecan, Macaron, Sunflower:

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Swatches
    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Swatches

    My Review of Victoria Beckham Eyewear

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Pecan
    Pecan

    As soon as these launched in 2023, I knew I was going to like these eyeshadow sticks. I have always got on well with similar products like the Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Cream Shadow Stick, the Laura Mercier Caviar stick, and the By Terry Ombre Blackstar eye shadow.

    EyeWear is the same format as these but the main difference is that the shade selection here is so so interesting.

    The new 2024 shades are very pretty. I love the shimmery Shroom shade shade and Ballet is super pretty too. Cornflower is maybe a little too blue for me, because I find I have so many hang ups around blue shadow, but I think someone a bit edgier could easily make it work!

    The texture is stunning and I love how easily this applies so easily on to the lids, and it grips well even when I haven’t prepped the eyelid.

    Although I mentioned those interesting cornflower, lilac and yellow shades, I am always more drawn to neutrals. Still the one I like the most is Pecan, and I know I’m not alone because this is the shade that sold out at launch. It is now back in stock here*.

    Pecan is the most gorgeous rich brown shade that is super buildable. You can use a small amount for a really subtle sculpted eye, or really build it up for a lovely soft yet super smoky look. As I said earlier, my REESON Bronzing Balm has a very similar tone and is very longwearing and smoothing too.

    Victoria Beckham Beauty EyeWear Longwear Crease-Proof Eyeshadow Stick Pecan
    Pecan

    I really like the texture of the Victoria Beckham EyeWear sticks. It glides on to the lids without dragging the skin, and you get a nice bit of play time to blend out the colour with a fluffy brush before it sets down.

    The shadows have a lovely flexible finish on the skin. It is longwear but it doesn’t feel dry or tight on the skin. It is such a comfortable product.

    I love the mattes. So they so velvety and creamy. The shimmers are super pretty. They aren’t overly shiny or glittery and just give a beautiful shimmer. You can layer them all really nicely too.

    If you are looking for a creamy, smoky liner, check out the Satin Kajals.

    Where to buy Victora Beckham EyeWear

    The new shades of the longwear shadow sticks are £33 and available now.