25 Labor Day Cookout Recipes To End Your Summer Right

Jessica Smith
Aug 16, 2023
labor day recipes

Fall may be on its way but we can't let summer pass without one last cookout for the books.Labor Day gives us the perfect excuse to break out our fire pit (if your camping knowledge is rusty, check out one of these easy fire starters to get the party going!). Whether you're hosting a summer soirée of your own or just looking for a dish to bring to your bestie's, these unique recipes won't disappoint. Pick a party theme, crank the music, and gather up your nearest and dearest. It's the unofficial end of summer and it's time to have fun!

Brit + Co Recipes

Tomato Confit

Image via Brit + Co

We're pretty sure that this tomato confit is the perfect side because of how versatile it is. Add it on top of toast, pasta, or a salad — or just stick a bowl on your buffet and let guests add it to their plates.

Homemade Dunkaroos

Image via Brit + Co

Kids of all ages will love these tasty cookies — almost as much as they love the vanilla icing! Top with rainbow sprinkles for some extra magic.

Brownie Cake Pops

Image via Brit + Co

These brownie pops are the perfect cookout recipe because they're easy to eat, and since they come on a stick, they're easy to serve to large groups of people. That's a win-win.

Pamplemousse La Croix and Lavender Mocktail 

Image via Brit + Co

This refreshing mocktail mixes Pamplemousse La Croix with a homemade lavender simple syrup and fresh grapefruit juice to hit the spot when you're gathered with friends (and even when you're not).

Mint Lemonade

Image via Brit + Co

Upgrade your go-to afternoon drink with this Lebanese recipe. Not only does it have, well, lemon, but it also features orange blossom and rose waters to balance out the mint and lemon flavors.

Appetizers

Mango Salsa

Image via Foodiecrush

Sure, we've seen chips and salsa before, but there's nothing like the homemade kind. This special version is loaded with strawberries, avocado, and, of course, plenty of mangoes. Serve with tortilla or baked pita chips.

Grilled Tomato Lollipop Toasts

Image via White on Rice

If you plan on firing up the grill, consider this simple app. Fire roasted cherries meet ricotta-slathered grilled bread. Use the sweetest cherry tomatoes you can find.

Avocado Dip

Image via Add a Pinch

This recipe requires five ingredients and five minutes to make. That means you've got time for another round of cornhole.

Cantaloupe Panzanella

Image via Honestly Yum

Cantaloupe is SO good right now and adding it to a panzanella sweetens the deal. We'll take two, please.

Sides

Herbed Red Potato Salad

Image via Cookie + Kate

Potato salad is always a crowd pleaser and pairs well with so many dishes. This version swaps mayo for a flavorful herb and olive oil dressing, helping it stand up to hot summer afternoons.

Tomato Mozzarella Salad With Balsamic Reduction

Image via Little Broken

This salad is suuuper simple to throw together, travels well, and makes for a showstopping side. Consider the balsamic reduction a new life skill — it's delicious on everything from grilled peaches to ice cream.

Elote Corn

Image via The Noshery

Take advantage of corn season with elote, a classic Mexican street food dish. Sweet corn gets charred over an open fire and seasoned with all kinds of yumminess.

Summer Quinoa Salad

Image via Two Peas & Their Pod

This hearty salad is filled with fresh fruit, quinoa and drizzled with a lemon dressing that'll keep your guests coming back for more.

Zucchini and Fresh Corn Farmers’ Market Salad With Lemon-Basil Vinaigrette

Image via Foodiecrush

Hurray for no-cook sides! They're fresh, delicious, and keep you from sweatin' up a storm in the kitchen on warmer days. This one gets a flavor boost with goat cheese and pine nuts.

Garlic Brown Sugar Flank Steak With Chimichurri

Image via How Sweet It Is

If you're looking for a steak recipe that's also easy on the wallet, flank is your friend. This dish has an option for broiling the meat, so you can still get that cookout vibe even if you don't own a grill.

Easy Grilled Lemon Garlic Shrimp

Image via Creme de la Crumb

Sometimes, the simplest recipes are the best ones. We think this is a perfect example. A buttery sauce of garlic, lemon, and herbs is all you need to transform juicy shrimp into a stunning entrée.

Mains

Sweet Tea Oven-Fried Chicken Sliders With Jalapeño Cheddar Corn Slaw and Crispy Onions

Image via Half Baked Harvest

Where to begin with these sliders? If the name alone hasn't convinced you, consider the fact that almost everything can be prepped in advance.

Ground Beef Tacos

Image via Two Peas & Their Pod

Craft these super easy ground beef tacos for guests that'll be glued to the TV watching college football games. They'll appreciate the handheld dish while yelling at the screen. Just make sure they have lots of napkins nearby!

Beer and Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers

Image via Jo Cooks

This BBQ recipe hits all the salty, sweet, crispy, charred, tender notes we look for in a good kebab.

Dessert

Mixed Berry Slab Pie

Image via Wife Mama Foodie

If you feel like getting patriotic with your Labor Day Dessert, check out this slab pie. It's festive and a perfect way to use all those beautiful berries you found at the farmers' market.

S’more Ice Cream Sandwiches

Image via Paper & Stitch

It's hard to imagine a more iconic summer dessert than a s'more, except perhaps an ice cream sammie. We're head over heels for this recipe, which combines the two.

Key Lime Cheesecake

Image via Most-Hungry

A Labor Day cookout isn't complete without a yummy Key Lime cheesecake but this one comes with a twist. It features a no-bake chocolate crust made of oreo cookies!

Lemon Bars

Image via Amanda Wilens

Nothing beats the heat like this classic lemon treat. Keep them chilled in the refrigerator right before serving to help keep your guests cool while they're lounging in your backyard.

Drinks

Spicy Cucumber Margaritas

Image via Gimme Some Oven

This drink answers all of our summertime cravings. It's refreshing, clean, and has just a little kick. Plus, there's nothing that says fiesta like a little tequila.

Blood Orange Ginger Cocktail with a Rosemary Simple Syrup

Image via Amanda Wilens

For a sweeter drink, serve your guests blood orange ginger cocktails! They'll enjoy the refreshing reprieve sans the spice and may even ask you for the recipe!

Which Labor Day cookout recipes will you be making this year? Subscribe to our email list to get the latest from B+C!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

Header image via Two Peas & Their Pod

17 Cinco De Mayo Drinks To Pair With Your Tacos

Cinco de Mayo is fast approaching, and that means we need to start thinking about our Cinco drinks! We've given you countless ways to enjoy a margarita, but if you're looking for something different, these cocktail recipes highlight the best flavors and traditions of Mexican culture, without even a mention of a classic 'rita (okay, maybe there's a few). And as delicious as these drinks are on their own, they're even better when enjoyed outdoors with a taco in hand!

Blood Orange Citrus Mezcal

This combination of bold mezcal and blood orange soda is nothing short of magical. A traditional Mexican drink, this cocktail is even more appropriate for Cinco de Mayo as it takes on a celebratory pink hue and usually is served in a salt-rimmed glass. Think of it as margarita’s prettier cousin! (via Brit + Co.)

Grapefruit Thyme Fizz

Get a good buzz goin' without feeling like you're sipping straight alcohol with this grapefruit and thyme-infused drink. Citrus keeps this easy cocktail recipe bright! (via Brit + Co.)

Lava Flow Cocktail

This frozen Cinco de Mayo drink may seem like a fruity margarita at first glance, but it takes on bold flavors of coconut and strawberry and mixes them with white rum. The result is a refreshing sipper that'll take your brain on a vacation just before it freezes it! (via Ms. Rachel Hollis)

Lemonade Sangria

Nothing says summer like fresh lemonade. Mix some with rosé to form an ice-cold drink for your Cinco celebrations! (via Amanda Wilens)

My Own Mezcalita

To craft this lovely, colorful Cinco cocktail, shake 1.5 oz mezcal, 5 oz triple sec, 2 oz orange juice, 0.5 oz lemon juice, and 0.5 oz ginger syrup over ice. Float 0.5 oz of hibiscus concentrate over the top for flavor and visual effect, then garnish with fruits and flowers! (via Hilton Cancun Mar Caribe All-Inclusive Resort)

Grapefruit Paloma

There’s something undeniably refreshing about a paloma. Freshly-squeezed grapefruit takes this cocktail to the next level. (via Barley & Sage)

Spicy Michelada

Beer cocktails are serious crowd-pleasers, and this version is as simple to make, as it is smooth to drink. The stellar combination of Mexican beer, tangy lime and silky tomato juice is incredibly satisfying, and surprisingly refreshing! (via A Spicy Perspective)

Boozy Cherry Limeade

Picture Sonic's cherry limeade, but in cocktail form. That's what this tart Cinco drink is! The fresh fruits make this recipe an easy addition to Cinco parties, and the summer season beyond. (via Barley & Sage)

Spicy Cucumber Margarita

The spiciness of this sip is sure to start the party. To make it, add 1.5 oz Flecha Azul Reposado and 5 serrano pepper slices to a shaker, then muddle. Then, add 2 oz cucumber juice, 0.5 oz lime juice, and 0.75 oz orange juice with ice and shake. Strain well into an ice-filled, Tajin-rimmed glass, and sip away! (via Flecha Azul Tequila)

Date-Sweetened Horchata

This traditional Mexican drink can be served with or without rum – but make ours a rum one, please! (via Minimalist Baker)

Frozen Negroni Slushy

Any frozen drink is the perfect partner for Cindo de Mayo. This recipe is especially helpful for planning your May 5 party, because it makes a big batch to share with your pals! (via The Endless Meal)

Raspberry Mojito

Step this cocktail recipe up by making your own raspberry syrup! No matter what, your guests will adore this fruity, fresh drink! (via Amanda Wilens)

Basil Smash Piña Colada

It's decided: piña coladas are the vibe for this year's Cinco. We love that this recipe elevates your run-of-the-mill colada with fresh basil – and of course, flaky sea salt. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Blackberry Friesling

Frozen wine? Consider us sold. All you need to do to make this Cinco de Mayo drink is freeze some Riesling wine, then add fruity liqueur and lemon juice once it's out of the freezer. (via Salt & Lavender)

Tequila Mule

It's not Cinco if there's zero tequila. That's why you need to prep this mule drink! (via Cozy Cravings)

Refreshing Watermelon Smoothie

Watermelon and cucumber balance harmoniously in this keep-you-cool sip. It's amazing on its own to share with the kiddos, but if you're in a boozy mood, pour some tequila in this bad boy! (via Live Eat Learn)

Matcha Pineapple Drink

A single sip of this matcha-infused pineapple drink will transport you to paradise. At least, that's what you can think about during your Cinco de Mayo bash. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Will these drinks do the trick come May 5? Let us know on Twitter and follow us on Pinterest for more cocktail recipes!

This post has been updated.

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Mandy Teefey’s Go-To Hack Will Make Social Media Suck Less

We all have big feelings. And thanks to social media and rising levels of anxiety, those feelings, well, feel bigger than ever. That’s exactly where resources like Wondermind come in. The self-proclaimed “mental health ecosystem” is all about exploring, discussing, and navigating our emotions together. This Mental Health Awareness Month, Wondermind wants you to live your mental health journey in community because Mandy Teefey, who co-founded the company with daughter Selena Gomez, knows what it’s like to walk that journey alone.

Image via Wondermind

“As I went through a very long journey of finding I did have a mental health diagnosis — and then I was misdiagnosed and then I had to go through that — I was blessed to have the resources to do that,” Teefey, who received an ADHD and trauma diagnosis after a 20-year bipolar misdiagnosis, says. “Whenever I started my journey of discovering what mental condition I had…I didn't have anybody to lean into or explain the way I was feeling.”

While these personal experiences helped Teefey better understand mental health, it wasn’t until she produced Netflix’s 2017 series 13 Reasons Whythat she saw just how far the mental health conversation goes. The hit show went viral almost as soon as it aired because of its realistic depiction of mental health and all the aftershocks of trauma.

“After we did 13 Reasons Why and saw the reaction and the need for that support, me and Selena were trying to really figure out what could be next,” Teefey says. “Everybody was releasing things [at] different times. It's like you have to have 12 apps to have a program, and then remember to use them all. So that's when we decided to create a mental fitness ecosystem. So it's all-encompassing, but there's something for everyone.”

“We're not a medicinal company [but] we do have an advisory committee that oversees everything that we do,” Teefey continues. “We're technically not doctors, but we are for everyone when it comes to feelings. Everybody has feelings and they can go to our content hub and just kind of explore that for a while.”

Image via Brit + Co

Admittedly, that exploration bit is pretty fun. The articles are inspiring, and the worksheets (which are each created by an expert) are incredibly helpful. Seeing every program, article, and podcast episode feels like an opportunity to start fresh, but once you have all the ideas in front of you, what do you actually do? Teefey recommends journaling, even if it’s just a sentence every day. (She also loves watching journaling videos from Planning Annie: “Anytime I'm feeling sad or like a little unmotivated, I put her on.”)

Journaling every day, even if your entries are short, allows you to track your mood over an extended period of time. If you notice a consistent sadness, for example, it could be a sign it’s time to check in with your doctor. Plus, journaling can help prepare you for the conversations mental health appointments bring up.

“Sometimes if you go into a therapy session and you're not really settled or concrete in who you are and what may be going on, you might go through what I went through, which is being misdiagnosed,” Teefey says. “It's more important for you to know who you are and what you need prior to going in. So you can give that to them instead of them guessing and working around that process with you.”

Image via Brit + Co

Establishing a consistent routine can help decrease your stress, whether you’re eating the same breakfast every day, or you stick to a tried and true skincare regimen like Sydney Sweeney’s Cassie does on Euphoria. I immediately thought of this teen drama when Mandy Teefey mentioned how important her 4 a.m. routine is. But while Cassie spends time doing her skincare and makeup, Teefey spends time nurturing her soul.

“If I don't have [that routine], I'm usually really off kilter,” she says. “So I get up at 4 when everyone's still asleep, and I found that time could be about me, and I'm not taking it away from anybody. And so that's really what helped me be more grounded throughout the day.”

I can attest that my own quiet time in the morning is vital for a successful day — as is knowing what my boundaries need to be. Because honestly, boundaries can change daily! Teefey and I both acknowledge we have to stay away from sad music to protect our mental health, and she also recommends staying off social media when you feel your mental health struggling.

“I can go three days without looking at social media and then when I go on there, I start having anxiety because I'm like, ‘Oh my gosh, I haven't liked this person. I haven't even liked our own pictures [for] Wondermind.’ And then I start feeling guilty,” she says. “There's just some kind of [expectation] to do social media and you really don't. Not everybody needs to know everything, you know? There's beauty in privacy.”

Even Selena Gomez admitted at the 2024 Time100 Summit that taking time off Instagram "was the most rewarding gift I gave myself."

Image via Brit + Co

The idea of staying off social media is way easier said than done (speaking from first hand experience here). If you feel like you’re drowning in engagement announcements, anxiety-inducing news, and FOMO, Teefey recommends keeping tabs on your reactions to gauge when it’s time to take a serious break.

“If it invokes any emotion that is a negative emotion, I [know] it's not worth being angry about, it's not worth losing sleep about,” she says. “It just feels like there's an unintentional taunting on social media and, ‘Wait a minute, is that about me?’ You don't know this person and then you start running with all this stuff in your mind.”

Like every area of life, social media is all about balance, and if you’re looking to unplug while still staying informed, Mandy Teefey recommends bringing a journal with you when doing your morning news scroll — that way, you can process emotions while keeping tabs on what’s happening. “If anything evokes emotion, I'm meditating during the quiet time,” she says.

Studies have found journaling can help decrease your anxiety, and that it can help you break obsessive thought cycles. And while you’re the only one who can process your thoughts and emotions, it’s important not to isolate yourself from your community — especially when you’re struggling. “You gotta build trust and you gotta build the boundary of who you volunteer [your] help to,” she says.

When it comes to her own daughters, Mandy Teefey knows it’s a process. “You have to work with them and meet them where they're at, and then see the help they need and don't assume [they’re going through] what you went through,” she says. “You've got to really understand them to be able to give that advice.”

Image via Natalie Rhea

In her own life, Mandy Teefey got to experience building that trust first-hand with Selena Gomez! “One time it was very, very cold in California and me and Selena were on the opposite sides of the pool,” she says. “We were in sweats and she says, ‘Do you trust me?’ And I went, ‘Yeah.’ And she goes ‘Okay, if you trust me, on three, we're gonna jump in this ice cold pool.’”

While Teefey wasn’t convinced, she trusted Gomez, and they both ended up in the freezing cold water! Which is both a funny story and a fond memory: “We couldn't get out of the pool because [our clothes were] so heavy. It was madness!”

“There's a lot of things I know my daughters don't tell me and that's their right,” she continues. “It's so sensitive between teenagers — especially teenagers — and their parents. They're going through that phase and they don't want to be around them and they don't wanna tell them things. It's definitely not easy but maybe put some feelers out there and just make sure that they know you're there and make it okay to have these conversations.”

Thanks to all this actionable advice, we know that Mental Health Awareness month isn’t limited to TikTok videos or Instagram posts we can reshare. There are real tips we can use to take care of ourselves — and a place to go when we need a boost.

Watch Our Full Interview With Mandy Teefey Here!

youtu.be

Wondermind Co-Founder Mandy Teefey Helps Us Navigate Big Feelings For Mental Health Awareness Month

If you're struggling with your mental health, check in with your doctor or check out the mental health resources Wondermind offers. You can also use Psychology Today to find a therapist near you.

Lead image via Getty

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12 Floral Cocktails That Are Almost Too Pretty To Drink

There are few moments more uplifting than when it finally comes time for all of the gorgeous blooms of spring to start, well, blooming! Since you’re already familiar with edible flower recipes, you need to become acquainted with floral cocktails as well. Not only are they delicious, they also look stunning!

All of these pretty petaled libations would be perfect for a bridal shower or even a simple romantic picnic in the park this year. Get your bar cart stocked and your garden watered, because these flower cocktails will keep you bartending all summer long!

Prickly Pear Margaritas

Floral cocktails just look so cute, and these prickly pear margaritas are simply cuteness overload from the edible flower garnishes! (via Brit + Co)

Aviation

The Aviation is a classic floral cocktail invented in the early 19th century by a bartender in NYC. It’s a gin-based cocktail that gets its lavender hue from crème de violette! Garnish with an edible violet for a vintage cocktail that’s downright sexy. (via Honestly Yum)

Edible Flower Lemon Jello Shots

You’ve never seen Jell-O shots this elegant! If you’re throwing a DIY backyard wedding, you have to have these for the reception. Plus, making these floral cocktails would be a fun activity to get all of the bridesmaids involved! (via Sugar & Cloth)

Spring Flowers Cocktail With Lilac Syrup

This rum cocktail is infused with lilac syrup, lime and crème de violette. The mix of tropical and floral makes it an essential cocktail for your summer staycation! (via DIY in PDX)

Golden Jasmine Martini

Jasmine tea lovers will rejoice over this adorable martini. Serve it as a lovely aperitif before a flavorful Asian dinner to complement the flavors in your meal! (via Cook Eat Live Vegetarian)

Hibiscus Champagne Cocktail

Hibiscus is one of the more well-known ingredients to use in florals cocktails and cooking. They even come conveniently packaged in jars with their own syrup! All you need is your favorite champagne or prosecco to enjoy this fragrant glass of bubbly. (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

June Blush Cocktail

Rose water is a versatile ingredient that can be used in everything from skincare to cupcakes. Mixed with gin, ginger liqueur and lemon juice, it makes a beautiful floral cocktail that you could serve at high tea. DIY some sugared rose petals to add a light, lovely touch. (via Freutcake)

Lavender Bee’s Knees

This prohibition-era classic cocktail sounds like the perfect pre-bedtime cocktail. Snuggle up with this lavender and gin nightcap and a good book for the perfect evening spent relaxing. (via Honestly Yum)

Lilac Lemon Fizz

If you like a drink with bubbles, this floral cocktail is for you. It’s bright and refreshing, which is great for when the days start to get a little bit warmer. Try freezing some lilac blossoms in an ice cube tray for an extra-elegant garnish. (via The Merry Thought)

Wild Rose Petal Sangria

For this sangria, you’ll need a bottle of rosé (obviously), elderflower liqueur, and rose syrup. For maximum rosy flavor, you’ll want to steep your petals in syrup overnight. Don’t worry — it’s worth it. (via Feasting at Home)

Elderflower Strawberry Bubbles

This refreshing floral cocktail is a simple combo of elderflower syrup and strawberries, with Prosecco and club soda added on top. It can be made in bulk, so it’s a great choice for serving big spring parties. (via Look What I Made)

Zesty Mint Virgin Cocktail

You can still enjoy the fresh garden flavors of spring, even if you don’t drink (or you’re preggo). This mint and elderflower mocktail is a great way to join in the party with zero alcohol involved. If you do fancy adding a bit of booze to it, rum would be a great choice. Just sayin’. (via Kiku Corner)

Follow us on Pinterest for more easy + delicious recipe ideas!

Lead image via Feasting at Home.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

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Ryan Gosling Is The Ultimate Girl Dad

After The Gray Man and a year full of Barbie and Ken, The Fall Guy (plus the upcoming Ocean's 11 prequelwith Margot Robbie) continues to prove Ryan Gosling is THE definition of a star. And between his friendship with Emma Stone and his relationship with Eva Mendes,Ryan seems like the kind of guy we'd all want to be best friends with — and not just because of his endless #Kenergy.

Not only is Ryan the sweetest partner, he's also the ultimate girl dad to daughters Esmeralda and Amada. Their "interest in Barbie and disinterest in Ken," as Ryan tells People, get him to Barbieland in the first place, but he also just revealed they "asked specifically" he avoid one The Fall Guy stunt. “My kids didn't want me to be set on fire,” he says. “Even though I said, ‘Well, it's actually, technically the safer thing to do because there's a lot of protective stuff involved, [they] were like, ‘No. No fire.’ So I didn't do it.”

It's clear that Ryan Gosling's children are spitfires and I love to see it! Here's everything you need to know about Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's kids.

How many children do Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have?

Image via Jon Kopaloff/Getty Images

Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have two children, Esmerelda Amada and Amada Lee. Amada was named after Eva's grandmother — both my sister and I have family names and I love seeing the way different families carry on that tradition!

How old are Ryan Gosling's kids?

Image via Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Universal Pictures

Esmerelda was born in September 2014, meaning she'll turn 10 this fall. Amada just turned 8 at the end of April!

How does Ryan Gosling prioritize his kids?

Image via Lionsgate

In his recent profile with WSJ, Ryan Gosling revealed he only picks roles that will benefit his whole family. "I don't really take roles that are going to put me in some kind of dark place," Ryan says. "The decisions I make, I make them with Eva and we make them with our family in mind first."

"I think La La Landwas the first," he continues. "It was sort of like, 'Oh this will be fun for them too, because even though they're not coming to set, we're practicing piano every day or we're dancing or we're singing.'"

Every couple needs to figure out what prioritizing their kids looks like for them, and considering how much I love all Ryan's recent roles, I'd say this is a shift that benefits everyone ;).

When did Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes have their daughters?

Image via Andrew Toth/Getty Images for New York & Company

Eva Mendes gave birth to Esmerelda on September 12, 2014 and later had Amada on April 29, 2016.

Are Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes still together?

Image via Sonia Recchia/Getty Images

Yes, Ryan Gosling and Eva Mendes are still going strong, and thank goodness. Eva just revealed that Ryan provides a ton of support for her. "When I was 40, it was a big deal for people when I was pregnant, and it wasn't for me," she tells People. "And then I was 42 and I was pregnant with my second one and people were like, 'Oh my God, you're going to be so tired. That's why people have kids in their 20s.' I was like, that's the most sorry, asinine thing I've ever heard."

"[Ryan supports me] in all the ways I need to be supported," she continues. "He's got me in all the ways."

How has fatherhood affected Ryan Gosling?

Image via Hector Vivas/Getty Images

Considering Ryan Gosling's daughters are such a huge part of his life now, it's hard to believe that earlier in life, he wasn't sure he wanted kids. "After I met Eva, I realized that I just didn’t want to have kids without her," he tells GQ. "And there were moments on The Place Beyond the Pines where we were pretending to be a family, and I didn’t really want it to be pretend anymore." Now, I'm going to need you to pause and reread that quote because I can't believe that's a real sentence. I'm obsessed!

A source also told People in 2023 that "Ryan is such a fun dad. He is goofy and his girls love it."

Via WSJ, we also know that since Ryan Gosling's kids have started learning Spanish, they now call him Papi. "It kills me every time," he says. "There's just nothing, nothing better than that."

What has Eva Mendes said about their daughters?

Image via Eva Mendes/Instagram

Eva Mendes is just as obsessed with her and Ryan Gosling's children as he is, and she's talked about how they make life so much better. "Oh April…I have such a complicated relationship with you," she says on Instagram. "[April 2] would have been my brother’s birthday…..in a couple of weeks from now is the day we lost him…but then, the end of April we got the biggest blessing of all, my little girl was born 8 years ago. I hate you April. But I love you more."

Check out our email newsletter for the latest celebrity news and trending content, and check back here for the latest news on Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling's kids!

Lead image via Daniel Boczarski/Getty Images for Universal Pictures

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Dealing With Stubborn Bloating? An Expert Shares How To Banish It

Bloating is a common digestive issue that can make you feel sluggish, uncomfortable, and self-conscious. While bloating is often caused by overeating, there are other factors that can contribute to this uncomfortable sensation, such as consuming gas-producing foods or experiencing hormonal changes.

The thing is that bloating happens to the best of us so it doesn't mean you're weird if you haven't figured out what's causing your tummy issues. Between weight fluctuations and hormonal changes post-birth, I still haven't cracked the 'happy digestive system' code. But, that lack of knowledge is no match for the expertise of Dr. Brynna Connor, MD — a Healthcare Ambassador at NorthWest Pharmacy.

Based in Austin, Texas where she has her own private practice, Dr. Connor is a member of the Texas Academy of Family Practice, the American Academy of Family Practice, and the Texas Medical Association. In other words, she has nearly two decades worth of medical experience that makes her the right person to answer all our "How to get rid of bloating" questions.

Whether you're dealing with the occasional bloat or chronic digestive issues, Dr. Connor has expert tips to help you find relief and get back to enjoying healthy meals that your body loves.

How can I tell if I'm bloated?

Image via Polina Zimmerman/Pexels

Before I became a mom, it was easy for me to recognize the immediate signs of bloating. I only experienced it during PMS and the week of my cycle, but it always went away for a few weeks. Not only that, I used to be able to pinpoint which foods were the culprit of horrific period cramps and the inevitable gassiness that seemed to make my cycles 10x worse. Now, things are up in the air and I'm joining the ranks of other curious women who want to know what's considered bloating.

Dr. Connor says, "There are various symptoms a woman may experience if she’s bloated. Bloating may make you feel like your stomach is tight or full and can cause abdominal pain, swollen/distended stomach, flatulence, belching, and/or stomach cramps. It’s not uncommon to experience multiple symptoms of bloating at once."

I don't think I need to mention just how uncomfortable things can feel when experiencing multiple bloating symptoms.

What triggers bloating symptoms?

Image via cottonbro studio/Pexels

I mentioned my daily cycle as one of the reasons I knew I used to experience bloating, but there are more things that can trigger it. "Bloating occurs when your gastrointestinal or digestive system(s) are filled with gas or liquid and there are six common potential causes," says Dr. Connor.

She lists having gas as one of the first reasons. "It’s normal to experience symptoms of excess gas, especially after eating and/or drinking as you may have also swallowed small amounts of air. Certain factors may increase the likelihood that you experience bloating after eating, such as chewing gum, drinking carbonated beverages, and/or eating or drinking too fast."

Hearing this reminds me of the moments I was told to slow down when eating my food as a little girl.

Image via Maksim Goncharenok/Pexels

There's also the chance that you have a food intolerance. I only speak for myself when I say that I'm only able to consume dairy in small increments and tomato sauce? Well, I can just forget that because lately my stomach skips bloating and heads right to nausea. What gives, you ask?

Dr. Connor says, "You can experience bloating if your digestive system has trouble breaking down certain foods. Common food intolerances that can lead to bloating include lactose intolerance, gluten intolerance, and/or fructose intolerance." Feeling mind-blown about possibly having a fructose intolerance? Same here, but Dr. Connor explains what happens when our body breaks down certain foods.

"There are also chemicals found in particular foods that can increase the chances of bloating after they’re ingested, including histamine (found in wine and cheese), caffeine, alcohol, sulfites (found in beer and wine), and monosodium glutamate (MSG – found in ripe fruit and cured meat)," she says.

If you're hearing someone play the world's smallest violin, it's me mourning the fact that my two greatest loves — wine and cheese — may not be the best things to consume together.

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I can say it's been a while since I've been constipated, but only because my doctor all but demanded that I start taking probiotics and eating more probiotic-rich foods. Still, it always sucks when constipation happens which explains the bloating that tends to follow.

"When your large intestine absorbs too much water from your stool, it becomes harder and more difficult to pass. The resulting buildup of stool in your colon can lead to bloating, swelling, and stomach/abdominal pain, and you’re particularly susceptible to constipation if you’re not getting enough fiber, water, or exercise. Changes to your daily routine or an increased level of stress can also contribute to constipation and bloating," says Dr. Connor.

Somehow this is oddly comforting to know that stress can also be a culprit.

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Like I mentioned before, starting your period is one of the reasons you can experience bloat. What Dr. Connor says next will occupy a space in your mind if you're never considered what happens during that special time of the month.

"Certain hormones, like estrogen, can cause your body to hold onto water, which can cause swelling in the abdomen. Estrogen can also interact with progesterone in your digestive system, leading to increased gas in your intestines. Bloating prior to your period may also be caused by the increase in volume in your uterus just before your period starts," she says.

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I've been prescribed different medications after two of my surgeries and found that I experienced unusual bloating that led to horrific cycles. Dr. Connor says there's a reason why certain medications or supplements can cause this to happen.

"...fiber supplements can cause bloating or constipation when the supplement isn’t taken with enough water. Other medications that can lead to bloating and/or constipation include opioids like hydrocodone or oxycodone, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin or ibuprofen, iron supplements, and antihistamines like Benadryl," she offers.

Although I no longer take Benadryl, I can confirm I experienced a ton of bloating when trying to combat my allergies.

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Lastly, Dr. Connor says there could be underlying medical reason you're experiencing bloating. "People living with gastrointestinal diseases like Celiac Disease, an inflammatory bowel disease such as Crohn’s or ulcerative colitis, or irritable bowel syndrome are more likely to experience bloating, excess gas, and constipation."

She also says, "Underlying liver disease or cancers can also cause bloating in the abdomen, which is why you should talk to your doctor if you are experiencing prolonged symptoms associated with bloating, or if you’re having any additional symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, or pelvic pain, blood in your stool, difficulty swallowing, or any excess fatigue or unexplained weight loss."

What are some ways to reduce bloating in general and during PMS/menstrual cycles?

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Dr. Connor says managing bloating can depend on what's triggering your symptoms. It's always best to schedule an appointment with your doctor if you concerned about your digestive health, but there are things you can do at home to provide some relief.

"At-home solutions include over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Gas-X or antacids that can be taken together or separately. Probiotics can also help reduce gas and restore the balance of bacteria in your digestive tract. Herbal remedies like peppermint, chamomile tea, or turmeric, can aid digestion, and peppermint oil can help relax muscles in the stomach that aid in the passing of gas."

She also suggests that you increase your fiber intake, incorporate exercise in your routine, and stay hydrated.

By taking steps to reduce bloating, you can improve your overall health and feel more comfortable in your daily life.

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This post has been updated.

Header photo by Anete Lusina/ PEXELS

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