Beyonce is pregnant with her first baby, and she’s determined to keep her bootylicious figure. The 30-year old pop singer is due with her first baby in February, and she’s chosen to eat a mostly vegan diet to keep her weight in check. Her husband, 42-year old rapper Jay-Z, has decided to support her by following the same diet. She’s made this choice after hearing from friends who’ve counseled her to not make the same mistakes that they did during pregnancy.

In the past, the singer has been known to struggle with her weight. In 2006, she lost 20 pounds in 14 days using Master Cleanse, although it’s not a diet she’d recommend. Reportedly, she gained back all of the weight that she lost, plus extra.

Husband Jay-Z isn’t feeling any negative affects from following his wife’s dietary choice, and both have reported to have experienced an increase in energy. It’s not clear how the megastars classify a diet as “partially vegan”, but it appears that they are taking a great step towards beginning healthy choices for their growing family!

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It’s still Aspartame. Reminiscent of the recent High Fructose Corn Syrup name change, possibly in an effort to change our opinions, Aspartame will now be referred to as AminoSweet. Don’t fall for a more “natural” name – this stuff is still bad news. Hopes are that by using a more natural sounding name, consumers will feel more at ease with its pervasive use in more than 6,000 products.

Originally introduced more than 25 years ago, this “accidental discovery” has quickly taken over the food industry.  Two naturally-occurring amino acids (aspartic acid and phenylalanine) were first combined in an effort to produce an anti-ulcer drug. Pharmacist James Schlatter discovered that the new compound had a very sweet taste. The company was granted a change on its FDA approval application from drug to food additive. Thus, aspartame was born.

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It’s holiday time, and you all know what that means: a long list of stuff to do and all of the relevant stress. Instead of getting overwhelmed, let your smart phone do the work for you and enjoy a very h”app”y holiday season!

Here are 15 of my favorite holiday smartphone apps in the categories of gifting, travel, entertaining, and even exercise to help you get through the season with ease.

Santa Tracker ($.99) – My kids have always been enormous fans of the NORAD Santa tracker – but using the computer site tends to tie you to the house. Use this app to track Santa, send a letter, or even visit his blog.

Christmas Gifts List (free) – We’ve all done it. You bought a gift for someone and then realized that you spent more on her sister. This app will help you avoid that sticky situation. You can track gift giving by amount, note individual preferences and add wish list items.

Mint.com (free)- The pinnacle of budgeting, now conveniently located on your phone. Manage your money, budgets, expenses and bills  in the palm of your hand. Add categories, and never lose money again.

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Trying to find great workout clothes can be an impossible task. Sure, you could work out in an oversized t-shirt and baggy basketball shorts, but let’s face it – stylish exercise clothes can be practical and inspiring. The workout gear of the 70′s and 80′s has thankfully gone the way of the 8 track player and many companies use technology to create clothing that wicks, breathes and does everything except the super set, all while incorporating style and keeping you looking good! One such company is FILA.

Since it got its start in Italy in 1911, FILA has been well known for creating comfortable, functional exercise clothing that is both beautiful and high quality.

This fall, FILA announced two new product lines: Supplex and Body Toning System. Offered in bright jewel tones and modeled by real women in their advertisements, these workout clothes have quickly become my own personal favorites.

I was sent a pair of Supplex yoga pants, a BTS tank and capri pants for running. All three items fit well and made for comfortable exercise, with a bonus that they helped me look good while exercising. If I look good, I feel good. Silly and vain, but I’ll bet you nodded as you read it, didn’t you? But, you might ask – what’s so special about these new clothing lines?

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Tired of throwing a traditional holiday party for your employees? You know, those that involve appetizers, drinks, and standing around conversing? If you are the boss or in charge of your office’s party planning committee, now is the perfect time to flex your authority muscle and throw an “outside the box” holiday party this year.

Most work places are notorious for unhealthy eating and offer little in the way of physical activity. By being innovative and creative and offering healthier alternatives for employees, you can cut down on company costs for sick and absent days and improve the health of your employees. It’s just one day, one party, but by helping them to create good habits, you can make for more efficient employees.

Here are some interesting and exciting ways to ring in the holiday season, help your employees have a good time, and encourage healthy movement.

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