20 Pear Recipes for When You’re Tired of Apples

Cassandra Pisone
Nov 10, 2015

Don’t let apples get the spotlight all fall long. Incorporate pears into your meals this season when you can’t look at yet another apple pie. Pears are full of nutrients (think: fiber, copper, potassium and vitamins B2, C and E) — making them a superfood that is sure to keep you healthy. Pears’ crispness, tartness and sweetness lend themselves to a variety of dishes: From breakfast chia seed puddings to appetizers made with creamy brie and salty prosciutto to nourishing soups for dinner, the possibilities are endless. Grab some pears next time you’re at the farmers’ market or grocery store and get cooking!

1. Healthy Pear Pancetta Goat Cheese Appetizer Bites: Swap pears for crackers or crostini for a gluten- and grain-free appetizer. Slice and refrigerate them the day before your party to save time. The whipped honey goat cheese can also be made a day ahead. Just assemble them right before your guests arrive, sprinkle with cracked pepper and you’re free to spend time with your friends and family. (via Food Done Light)

2. Pear, Goat Cheese and Walnut Salad: This salad is topped with maple vinaigrette and is the perfect fall side or main dish. Add protein for a full meal: Grilled chicken blends nicely, or if you’re a vegetarian, you can use extra seeds, quinoa or tofu. (via A Pinch of Healthy)

3. Cinnamon-Spiced Pear Chia Seed Pudding: Chia seed pudding is *so* in right now — give it a seasonal twist with roasted pears and cinnamon. You’ll be satisfied until lunch, thanks to the fiber from the chia seeds and pears. (via Brit + Co)

4. Red Cabbage and Pear Salad With Walnuts: In a decadent holiday season, the health benefits in this salad can’t be beat: copper, fiber, manganese, omega-3 fatty acids, potassium, vitamin C and vitamin K. Oh, it’s also unbelievably delicious and crunchy, in case you needed another selling point for your lunch plans this week. (via Heavenlynn Healthy)

5. Creamy Ginger Rice Pudding With Honeyed Roast Pears and Walnuts: This is pure comfort food, and is a great pudding for the time of year when the days are short and the weather has a slight chill. Enjoy this bowl of creamy, sweet goodness that warms you from the inside out. (via Cockles n’ Mussels)

6. Pear Ginger Muffins: Nothing makes the house feel more cozy than something baking in the oven. Fill your house with the scents of pears and ginger while you cozy up to read while they bake. (via Recipe Runner)

7. Roasted Pear and Chocolate Scones: Give apple and pumpkin a rest this fall. You won’t regret trying these delicious, flaky pear and chocolate scones for breakfast, brunch or dessert. (via Swim, Eat, Repeat)

8. Rustic Pear-Almond Galette: Imperfection is a selling point for this Thanksgiving dessert; you really can’t mess this one up, since the dough doesn’t need to be rolled out perfectly. Serve with ice cream and your guests will go nuts. (via Climb Eat Cycle Repeat)

9. Baked Pears With Honey, Cranberry and Pecans: You’ve seen baked apples, but what about baked pears? The cranberries have a tasty tang, while the pecans bring a little crunch. These just might be more delicious than the original. (via Brit + Co)

10. Ginger Pear Ice Cream: It’s never too cold for ice cream, and if you’re looking for a special fall treat, try making your own. You don’t even need to own an ice cream maker. (via The Kitchen Wife)

11. Pear and Squash Chicken Skillet: If you’re looking for a one-pan, gluten-free AND paleo meal, this recipe is done in less than 45 minutes and checks off all the boxes for a perfect dinner party meal. It’s sweet and savory and perfect for coming home to after a long day of shopping. (via Real Simple Good)

12. Sweet N’ Savory Pastry Puffs: Puff pastry is the MVP of the holiday entertaining season, and you’re likely to have an extra pack in your freezer to make these quick appetizers. Not to mention: Brie + pears + puff pastry = delicious. (via Brit + Co)

13. Pear and Chocolate Malt Tarte Tatin: Here’s your go-to answer for fall dessert: Pears and chocolate are a match made in foodie heaven. (via Wilde Orchard)

14. Vanilla Poached Pears on Chocolate Sablé Breton: Sablé is the love child of two of Northern France’s most famous products: salt and butter. Pears are easy to poach, and when you add the vanilla whipped cream, you have a dessert that will impress everyone. (via Ollie Bo)

15. Creamy Whole Oats With Cardamom Roasted Pears: This recipe may take an hour to cook, but chalk it up to a lazy Sunday activity and serve it to your honey as breakfast in bed. (via Gather and Dine)

16. Honey Ginger Pear Cheesecake: Move over, pumpkin cheesecake — there’s a new sheriff in town. Pear cheesecake *needs* to be your Thanksgiving dessert this year. Ginger gives this recipe a little bit of spice that balances the sweetness of honey and pears. (via Jar of Lemons)

17. Overnight Crockpot Apple Pear Butter: Remember all those apples you picked at the orchard last weekend? Before you go to bed, throw them into the crockpot with a few pears, and you’ll have a spread yummy enough that it deserves a spot on your brunch table. (via Oh So Delicioso)

18. Butternut Squash Risotto With Pears and Sage: Pears pair (pun intended) with creamy butternut squash — this recipe is worthy of a date night or Meatless Monday. (via The Wimpy Vegetarian)

19. Cauliflower and Asian Pear Soup With Ginger: Cauliflower and Asian pear may not be an obvious combo, but def give this soup a try. Cinnamon and ginger play warming and subtle roles, while potatoes thicken and smooth out the texture without cream. Leftovers are *good* when they involve this soup. (via Nourishing Matters)

20. Pear + Brie Toasts With Honey Balsamic Drizzle: Colder temps require more than chips and guac as an appetizer. Crostini are sure to delight all of your guests, and the combo of crisp pear and creamy brie will please everyone. (via Sweet Love and Ginger)

What are your favorite recipes with pears? Let us know below in the comments.

17 Unique Flavor Combos To Upgrade Your Avocado Toast Recipes

To us, the avocado toast craze is still in full swing. We'd happily take our Instagram feeds flooded with aesthetically-pleasing pics of avo toast! The crunchy-yet-creamy combo is delicious, nutritious, and easy to make, but let’s keep it real: the classic version of avocado toast (crispy bread + smashed avocado + sea salt + olive oil + lemon juice) has become a little — dare we say, basic?

With the help of a few tasty toppings, you can upgrade your avocado toast game and give this foodie favorite quite the gourmet flair. The results will make your followers jealous, but your taste buds oh-so happy. Check out this list of avocado toast recipes to keep your meals inspired!

Avocado Egg Salad

Made with four ingredients, this mayo-free avocado + egg salad is a game changer. It’s a fabulous make-ahead lunch that will give your work day some extra excitement! (via The Roasted Root)

Autumn Avocado Toast

We’re confident this toasted avocado toast treat can be enjoyed all year long, especially on chilly days or nights when you’re craving something that's both sweet and savory. (via How Sweet Eats)

Cottage Cheese Avocado Toast

Cottage cheese is a super easy way to give your avocado toast recipes a boost of protein! Its cheesy, creamy consistency blends exceptionally well with mashed or sliced avocado, and in this delicious case, fresh tomatoes. (via The Fast Recipe)

Roasted Chickpea Avocado Toast

Same goes for chickpeas! They're a nice, cheap source of vegan protein that can make your avocado toast recipes more fulfilling. This recipe calls for you to pan-roast them, so they get crispy and flavorful. (via Two Peas & Their Pod)

Avocado Toast with Roasted Asparagus on Multigrain

This loaded toast is good for meals beyond just breakfast. The hearty roasted asparagus will warm you up from the inside out, all while incorporating tons of vitamins and minerals in each bite. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Avocado Toast with Brown Butter Sesame Seeds

The brown butter sesame seeds that adorn the top of this toast add a much-needed note of umami, balancing out the creamy avo in no time. (via The Original Dish)

Grilled Corn, Feta, + Egg in a Hole Avocado Toast

Bet you've never seen an avocado toast recipe like this before! This pick gets topped with grilled corn, feta cheese, egg, and if you feel like going gourmet with it, some fresh peach slices. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Avocado + Heirloom Tomato Toast

We can all agree that avocado toast is what dreams are made of. But when you add fresh, ripened tomatoes and drizzle some balsamic vinegar on top, it takes your avocado toast dreams to a whole new level. (via Blissful Basil)

Open-Faced Lemon Pepper Artichoke and Arugula Sandwich

Better known as fancy toast, this gourmet knife-and-fork meal tastes as good as it looks. With a stellar combo of white bean hummus, artichokes, lemon juice, baby arugula, and sweet balsamic glaze, this savory-yet-subtly sweet avocado toast will likely become your new favorite food. (via Veggie and the Beast)

Avocado Toast With Charred Tomatoes, Garlic Shrimp and Fried Egg

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a late night snack, this flavorful and nutritious version of avo toast will have you thanking the food gods! (via Domesticate Me)

Avocado and Crab Crostini

Top your avocado toast with fresh, buttery crab and toasted baguette slices, then be prepared for your life to change — it’s that good. Serve these slices as an appetizer when hosting your next soirée, and your guests will be begging for the recipe. (via Confessions of a Chocoholic)

Green Goddess Toast

Roasted spring vegetables, tahini sauce, and avocado. Do we even need to say more? (via Feed Me Phoebe)

Vegan Hummus on Avocado Toast

If you’re getting a little bored with your avocado toast, but don’t want to put in a ton of effort to renew the meal, this recipe is for you! Slow-roasted tomatoes, hemp hearts, avocado, and hummus make for a winning combination. This also makes for the perfect post-workout snack! (via Oh She Glows)

Avocado Toast With Crisped Prosciutto

This take on avocado toast will make you hungry just thinking about it. Don’t say we didn’t warn you! (via Honest Cooking)

Spicy Steak and Avocado Toast

Don’t be afraid to step outside the box when it comes to your avocado toast recipes. Whether you’re headed to a summer potluck or making a meal for your boo, this filling steak dish will thrill even the pickiest eater. (via Heather Christo)

Smoked Salmon and Smashed Avocado Tartines

You’ll get a nutrient-rich dose of heart-healthy fats, vitamins, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids with these tasty avo-smothered tartines. (via Baker by Nature)

Spicy Maple Bacon and Scrambled Eggs on Avocado Toast

Are you just drooling reading the name of this dish? We are! Pair this crave-worthy comfort food with mimosas, and declare yourself the queen of brunch. (via Domesticate Me)

Which of these avocado toast recipes are you super excited to try? Let us know in the comments!

Lead image via Half Baked Harvest.

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

breakfast recipesbrunch recipesfood recipes roundupsfoodiehealthy recipesrecipe roundupsnacksavocado toastfood

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.

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

interviewtechsocial mediamental health

21 Fun & Creative Recipes to Spice Up Boring Baked Chicken Breast

If you've done it once, you've done it a million times. You come home late from work, throw some salt and pepper on a chicken breast and pop it in the oven. BORING! You could plan ahead and make slow cooker chicken in the morning, but what are the chances you're going to remember that? It's time for you step up your game and in a big way. If you want to love your dinner so much you crave leftovers the next day, keep reading for 21 baked chicken breast recipes that are a welcome change from the drab poultry you're used to.

Honey Mustard Chicken

All you need is 35 minutes and one sheet pan for this versatile and delicious dish. (via Brit + Co)

Sweet Sriracha Chicken Breast

Mix Sriracha with honey and soy sauce to create a sweet and spicy coating you’ll want to slather all over your chicken. (via The Cookie Writer)

Baked Spinach Provolone Chicken Breasts

When your chicken dish provides you with protein and a serving of veggies, you’re winning dinner. Throw some brown rice on to go with it and your whole effortless meal is ready in under 30 minutes. (via Tastefulventure)

Smothered Baked Chicken With Creamed Spinach, Bacon and Mushrooms

We had you at smothered, didn’t we? Some days just call for an indulging AF dinner with all the cheese and bacon. For those nights, you need this dish. (via Julia’s Album)

Ranch Cheddar Chicken

This homemade version of Shake ‘N Bake is just as easy as popping open a box, but *way* tastier. Just prepare for the kid-friendly dish to be requested on repeat. (via Everyday Dishes)

Honey Horseradish Chicken

The sweet honey combines so well with the spicy horseradish in this recipe! Best part is, it only takes 30 minutes to make. (via Averie Cooks)

Baked Paprika-Parmesan Chicken

That crust is so crispy you can almost hear the crunch from your laptop. It’s hard to believe that there are no breadcrumbs and no deep-frying is necessary. (via Sugar Apron)

Cheesy Mustard Baked Chicken Breasts

That whole grain mustard in your fridge has saved your butt on more than one occasion. When combined with sharp white cheddar and Parmesan, it creates a luxurious, tangy sauce that your chicken breast will sop up. (via Foodiecrush)

One Dish Chicken Bake

You can’t go wrong when you nestle your chicken between a bed of tomatoes and a blanket of mozzarella. Serve on top of pasta for a simple and easy Italian-inspired dinner. (via Diethood)

Baked Chicken Fajita Roll-Ups

If you’re going low-carb, you don’t have to give up fajita night. These roll-ups have all of the flavors you *love* but sans tortilla. Try them with a side of cauliflower rice. (via Eat Yourself Skinny)

Cilantro-Lime Chicken

Nothing perks up chicken quite like the combination of cilantro-lime. Let the chicken marinate for at least 15 minutes while you unwind, and it’ll be ready to pop in the oven when you’re ready to eat. (via Rasa Malaysia)

Creamy Baked Asiago Chicken

You won’t believe how juicy and flavorful this chicken turns out. TBH, it’s all thanks to that creamy layer of Asiago-garlic mayo that’s baked on top. (via The Recipe Critic)

Parmesan Crusted Chicken

Why coat your chicken with flour when Parmesan and breadcrumbs are an option? Before you dredge them in the eggs, season it liberally with fresh garlic to impart even more flavor. (via Taste and See)

Caprese Stuffed Chicken Foil Packs

Tomatoes, mozzarella and basil are a classic trio that livens up any dish. As if this recipe couldn’t be any easier, the cleanup is virtually eliminated as well. (via The Wholesome Dish)

Super Moist Oven Baked BBQ Chicken

A steady application of BBQ sauce while cooking is the secret to these perfectly sticky breasts. (via Heather Likes Food)

Basil Pesto Chicken

This basil pesto chicken is bursting with flavor and so simple to make. You can marinate it ahead of time for the perfect easy weeknight dinner. (via Real Food Dietitians)

Tuscan Chicken with Saffron Cream Rice

This recipe tastes like something you'd get straight from a gourmet restaurant. Seriously, it's that good. (via Vikalinka)

Easy Healthy Baked Lemon Chicken

Once you make this healthy baked chicken, you’ll never be without fresh lemons again. Smash a few sweet potatoes and steam a bag of frozen broccoli to round out a nutritious dinner. (via Creme de la Crumb)

Baked Cajun Chicken Breasts Recipe

Get ready for your taste buds to be lit on fire. Heads up, you’ll want to make extra so you can have an epic cajun chicken sandwich for lunch the next day. (via Gal on a Mission)

Baked Balsamic Chicken

Balsamic vinegar is for so much more than dressing your salad. Reduce it with honey, sugar and salt to get a ridiculous glaze that would taste good on a shoe. Thankfully, chicken is even tastier. (via Creme de la Crumb)

Bacon Wrapped Cream Cheese Stuffed Chicken

Cream cheese, bacon and chicken, oh my! This basic recipe is great for building upon with your favorite flavors. For a healthy twist, try giving spinach and artichokes a whirl. (via Homemade Hooplah)


Follow us on Pinterest for more recipe inspo!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

comfort food recipesdinner recipeshealthy recipesrecipe roundupComfort Food Recipes

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

familypop culturerelationshipryan goslingcelebrity

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.

Image via Miriam Alonso/Pexels

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.

Image via Karolina Grabowska/Pexels

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.

Image via Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

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.

Image via cottonbro studio/Pexels


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?

Image via KoolShooters/Pexels

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.

Want more health tips? Sign up for our email newsletter!

This post has been updated.

Header photo by Anete Lusina/ PEXELS

healthy livinghealth issueshealth advicehealth tipsbloatinghealth