Daily Dose of Common Sense

No one likes to talk about it, but it’s out there. And, with swimsuit season ahead, it’s about to see the light of day. Yep, it’s… cellulite.

The dimpled appearance of cellulite is caused by fat deposits that distort the outer layer of skin. And, it’s your genetics that determine whether you will develop cellulite. The desire to get rid of the unsightly bumps has led to a multi-billion dollar industry, including creams, supplements, massages, and serums.

Do any of these treatments work? Nope. Quick fixes for cellulite can’t get under the skin and inside your fat cells. The best defense against developing cellulite is to eat a healthy diet and keep your muscles toned. So, save your money and hit the gym.

[Note: this post originally appeared on April 18, 2009 on Rational Moms.]

I love a quick, informative slideshow and this one doesn’t disappoint. Scientific American investigates the science behind some of the common pregnancy myths and wives’ tales.

For example, is heartburn a sign that your baby will have hair? Do overweight mothers give birth to overweight babies? Do pregnant women eat more when having a boy?

(Answers: Most likely, yes, and yes. But there’s more so follow the link!)

Happy Mother’s Day!

It seems common sense to participate in the tradition of Mother’s Day. You have a mother, she worked hard to bring you into the world, and she helped raise you to be a good person. And you know she’ll never let you live it down if you don’t at least call her today.

Turns out the fear of a maternal guilt trip isn’t the only reason to honor moms. LiveScience.com posted 5 Scientific Reasons Mom Deserves Mother’s Day. Included here are some insightful findings based on recent scientific data. For example, moms today get less help and are expected to do more. Moms feel more pain. And, researchers have discovered that, although our genes come 50% from dad and 50% from mom, for some unknown reason mom’s genes have a more significant effect on the person you become.

One stark example: While you were in the uterus, if your mother had a very stressful experience, you’ll be at greater risk for anxiety disorders. And a new study on rats, out last month, indicates that your mother’s diet during pregnancy affected your genes.

More surprising, studies are showing that what your mother ate when she was a child, the toxins she was exposed to, and other experiences before and during pregnancy affect how the genes she passes on to you actually get expressed in your body.

Another study, reported this year in the journal Child Development, shows a profound impact of nurturing by mothers in the early years, too. A child who has a strong relationship with Mom during preschool years tends to form closer friendships in grade school, the research revealed.

It’s hard out there being a parent. So, give Mom a little recognition and love today. It goes a long way.