..:* THE BAD GIRL'S GUIDE TO GOOD HEALTH *:..

New research shows that some seemingly naughty behaviors can actually be beneficial. Here, which vices to indulge.

Scientists have already given their blessings to guilty pleasures such as nibbling chocolate (it's high in antioxidants) and sipping wine (red vino is heart-healthy). Now, studies are finding upsides to other so-called bad behaviors. Some things-like smoking or an addition to cookies and cream-we'd love to endorse, but these naughty habits can feel good and be good for you.

Getting Pissed Off Can Keep Stress In Check
A little anger may be a tonic for your mind and your body. For example, new studies suggest that riled-up people make better decisions. And researchers at Carneige Mellon University found that anger-as opposed to fear or anxiety- can prompt your brain to release less cortisol, the powerful stress hormone linked to problems like obesity, bone loss, and heart disease. "Traditionally, it has been difficult for women to express anger effectively, because we're 'supposed' to act nurturing and sensitive," says Julie K. Normen, Ph.D., author of The Positive Power of Negative Thinking. So let your ire out. Just don't go overboard; chronic rage is unproductive.

Downing Coffee Could Cut Your Caner Risk
Coffee's most exalted attribute--energy boosting caffeine--has nothing on its real health superpowers. Studies show that drinking daily joe may minimize your risk for Parkinson's disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes. Why? Most chronic diseases are related to inflammation, and coffee is chock-full of anti-inflammatory compounds, says Shelley McGuire, Ph.D., an associate professor of nutrition at Washington State University. Coffee also has more antioxidants than almost any other food. Sip one to three high-octane or decaf cups a day, but make sure you steer clear of fat traps such as whipped-cream-topped lattes. "If you're piling on calories, " warns McGuire, "you're probably wiping out the benefits."

- By Jennifer Johnson, Women's Health

MOJITO SLUSHY!

1 cup sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup fresh lime juice, about 4 to 6 limes
1/4 cup fresh mint leaves firmly packed
2 limes zested
1/2 cup light rum
8 cups crushed ice
Mint sprigs & lime wedges for garnish Directions: In a saucepan over medium heat, add the sugar and water. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the sugar is dissolved and the syrup is clear. Set aside to cool. Put the sugar syrup, lime juice, mint leaves, lime zest, and rum into a blender and blend until smooth. Add the ice and blend until slushy. Spoon into glasses; garnish with a sprig of mint and a lime slice.

Cheating Hearts

by Stephanie Laurtizen

“Cheating is anything your partner does that he/she wouldn’t do in your presence” –Tasha Cunningham, author of So The Bastard Broke Your Heart, Now What?
“Cheating is also about intent,” says Cecily Knobler, a relationship writer and author of She’s Crazy He’s a Liar – Now What? “It doesn’t have to be just sex, making out, or kissing.” If your partner is collecting phones numbers with plans of drunk dialing those people when you’re not around, that could be considered cheating too.
Don’t let a guy pull a Jesse James on You! Straying. Indiscretions. Sleeping Around. No matter what you call it, cheating is a harsh reality. When your lover has another, it’s time to stop being angry-and start getting even- or better yet- moving on!

Hey, It's OK! ...

...to laugh so loudly that everybody stares.

...to spend a whole happy hour making up names for that band you all are totally going to start.

...if the erotic appeal of toe-sucking completely baffles you.

...to not have the kind of dad who plays golf, wears a tie, and serves as your personal ATM. (Hear that, greeating card people?)

...if you have a "type." The heart wants what it wants. Also, the loins. They want what they want too.

...to tell him you need more than a drawer at his place. Please: counter space in the bathroom, room in the closet, and a spot for your soy milk. Let's be real.

...to have a couple of holdover phrases from high school that you just can't get rid of. Sweet!

Set the Trend

Sleek & Edgy
Offering an unexpected mix of textures and proportions, this style is both tough and tender. Hair is smooth and glamorous, which boosts a sexy tomboy look, as do the tailored shorts and fitted leather jacket. A shimmering tank and matching accessories inject a shot of excitement.

Bright & Light
A look that’s sexy and fresh, this style focuses on texture and softness with few distractions. The saturated color and simple lines of the dress offer a backdrop for vibrant blonds hair that’s full of movement and body. Gathered layers in the dress soften it’s figure-skimming silhouette while strappy fleshtone platforms elongate legs.

Looks
This understated but powerful style provides the perfect backdrop for a spectacular hair. The classic black and white color palette is minimally adored with chunky metal jewelry and a strong shoe, letting the hair’s incredible volume and softness take center stage.

Bohemian Chic
Centered around a colorful, exotic pattern and naturally lush hair, this laid-back look is all about freedom. A feminine dress stays relaxed with a casual cover-up and earthy accessories. Hair is just as easygoing-gorgeous and healthy, with cascading loose curls.

Set The Trend
Whether you’re a carefree spirit or a slick modernist, there is a style to fit your taste. Use these guides to four of summer’s best looks to discover the fashion elements that make them work and see how to recreate the hairstyles that each one shine.

Think Thinner

Health Now. A happier, healthier girls night out. Break out your Manolos! Sex and the City2, out this month, will inspire you to head out with your friends. Here, how to have a fab time-and still feel fine in the a.m.

Invite Right. We all need the occasional bitchfest over beer, but be sure to include upbeat friends in your party. Research from Harvard and the University of California, San Diego, found that every happy person in your social circle can raise your spirits by 9 percent.

Brighten Up. Wearing spring colors like yellow and pink may help you feel happier and more energized, experts say.

Think Thinner. The chips and guac are calling? Try this: Start a convo with a friend who has no problem saying no. “Just thinking about her-how long you’ve known her, what her traits are-that’s enough to help you stay in control”, says Michelle van Dellen, PhD, a visiting psychology professor at the University of Georgia, who has done a number of studies on this surprising effect. “Even just keeping some pictures of people whose habits you admire on your phone could help.” This trick can improve your own willpower by bringing certain thoughts, like self control, to the front of your mind.

Detox Deliciously. If you see an asparagus appetizer on the menu, order it. The veggie is chock full of amino acids important to metabolizing alcohol, so it may ease hangovers, whether you eat it before or after drinking, according to a study in the Journal of Food Science.

Styling Tips for the Party Girl

GET A PERFECT AT-HOME BLOW-OUT

Who doesn't love that fresh-from-the-salon, blow-dried look? We asked on Saradeth of Pon International in Anaheim Hills, CA to offer his tips for perfect at-home results. For starters, be sure to use the right product for your hair type.

• FINE, THIN OR LIMP HAIR: Use a thickening spray or mousse for subtle body and fullness.
• NORMAL OR STRAIGHT HAIR: Try a lightweight styling lotion for just a hint of control.
• COARSE, WAVY OR CURLY HAIR: Add a straightening product to damp strands.
• FIGHT FRIZZ: Add a few drops of shine serum if your hair is prone to drizz.

Once you've got the right products, here's how to blow-dry like a pro:

Attach a concentrator onto your blow dryer, grab a paddle brush and work with one section at a time. Using the flat edge of the brush, smooth smaller sections straight, pulling with slight tension with the concentrator right on the brush. Continue until all sections are done and then style as desired.