Water retention, or edema, occurs when excess fluid builds up in the body’s tissues, causing swelling, usually in the hands, feet, ankles, or legs. There are several home remedies that may help reduce water retention naturally. Here are 8 of the best options:
1. Drink More Water
It may sound counterintuitive, but drinking more water can help flush out excess sodium from the body, which is a major cause of water retention. Staying hydrated supports kidney function, encouraging the release of excess fluids.
2. Reduce Sodium Intake
Excessive sodium can cause the body to retain water. Cutting back on salty foods and processed meals, while focusing on whole, fresh foods, can help your body balance fluids more effectively.
3. Increase Potassium-Rich Foods
Potassium helps balance sodium levels in the body, which can reduce water retention. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, avocados, spinach, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes.
4. Consume Dandelion Tea
Dandelion is a natural diuretic that helps your body get rid of excess water. It may also provide a gentle detoxifying effect. Drinking dandelion tea or using dandelion extract as a supplement can aid in reducing water retention.
5. Epsom Salt Bath
Epsom salts contain magnesium, which may help reduce fluid retention by improving circulation and relaxing muscles. Soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salts for 20 minutes can promote relaxation and fluid balance.
6. Ginger
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can support digestion, which may reduce bloating and water retention. Drinking ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to meals can help reduce fluid buildup.
7. Elevate Your Legs
If you’re experiencing swelling in your legs or feet, elevating your legs above the level of your heart can help improve circulation and reduce water retention. This simple position can allow fluid to move back into the bloodstream.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help balance your body’s pH levels and reduce water retention. It has a mild diuretic effect and may aid digestion. Mix one or two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with water and drink it once or twice a day.
Bonus Tip:
Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, helps to increase circulation, which can reduce water retention.
Adam Lambert once again proved his unparalleled vocal prowess during his performance of Sia’s “Chandelier” on the America’s Got Talent: All-Stars finale on February 27, 2023. The episode, which marked the season finale of AGT: All-Stars (Season 1, Episode 9), saw the superstar deliver a breathtaking rendition of the song, leaving the audience and judges, especially Simon Cowell, in awe.
Lambert’s performance was a standout moment of the night, showcasing not only his incredible vocal range but also his commanding stage presence. The song, known for its soaring high notes and emotional depth, provided the perfect platform for Lambert to demonstrate his vocal mastery. As he hit the high notes and seamlessly navigated the challenging melody, the crowd erupted in cheers, and Simon Cowell couldn’t hide his admiration. Lambert’s ability to bring an emotional connection to every performance was on full display as he made “Chandelier” his own.
Adding to the impact of the performance were the talented Aidan Bryant and the Bello Sisters, who provided stunning support as backup dancers. Their choreography and seamless coordination with Lambert added a visual layer of energy and artistry to the performance, making it even more captivating.
Adam Lambert’s appearance on AGT: All-Stars wasn’t just about showing off his vocal chops, but also about solidifying his place as one of the most versatile and captivating performers of his generation. Whether he’s belting out rock anthems or giving a delicate, emotional ballad, Lambert continues to be an artist who knows how to command the stage and captivate audiences. His performance of “Chandelier” is yet another reminder of his incredible talent and why he remains a favorite in the world of music and entertainment.
With the voice of an angel and the heart of a true lady, Susan Boyle graced Windsor Castle with an unforgettable performance that left the audience spellbound. As part of the celebration for Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, Boyle chose to sing the iconic Scottish song “Mull of Kintyre,” written by the legendary Paul McCartney. This heartfelt tribute not only showcased her extraordinary vocal talent but also resonated deeply with the rich cultural heritage of Scotland.
As she stepped onto the grand stage, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. Susan’s angelic voice filled the castle, weaving through the hearts of those present, transporting them to the picturesque landscapes of Scotland. The melody of “Mull of Kintyre,” a song that evokes images of rolling hills and serene coastlines, took on a new life in her capable hands. Each note she sang was imbued with passion and grace, paying homage to the beauty of her homeland.
The audience, which included dignitaries, members of the royal family, and a host of esteemed guests, was captivated from the very first chord. Susan’s heartfelt delivery combined with her authentic connection to the song created a magical moment that transcended mere performance—it was a celebration of heritage, artistry, and the enduring spirit of Scotland.
As her voice soared to the rafters of Windsor Castle, one could see emotions reflected in the faces of the audience. Many were visibly moved, some even wiping away tears, as the poignant lyrics echoed through the historic venue. Susan Boyle had not only honored Queen Elizabeth on this monumental occasion but had also reminded everyone of the power of music to unite and inspire.
In that moment, Susan Boyle proved once again why she remains a beloved figure in the world of music. Her performance was a beautiful blend of nostalgia and celebration, capturing the essence of both the song and the significance of the occasion. With each powerful note, she reaffirmed her place as one of Scotland’s finest musical talents.
As the applause echoed through the castle following her final note, it was clear that Susan Boyle had delivered more than just a performance—she had created a cherished memory that would linger long after the evening ended. Her tribute to Queen Elizabeth was a testament to the enduring legacy of music, and the profound impact it can have in celebrating milestones that define our history.
In a world where moments of true connection can feel fleeting, Susan Boyle’s enchanting performance at Windsor Castle stood out as a reminder of the beauty of artistry and the bonds that unite us all.
Singer Adam Lambert has revealed how he found a way to get Queen bandmembers Brian May and Roger Taylor to discuss frontman Freddie Mercury’s sexuality on camera
Adam Lambert has performed with Queen for more than a decade, producing some flamboyant Freddie Mercury-style performances.
But the American Idol winner said it took an ITV documentary to get bandmates Brian May and Roger Taylor to sit down on camera and discuss how the late singer’s sexuality influenced him as an artist. On the Adam’s Out Loud and Proud doc, the trio talk about how Freddie would have refused to identify as a “queer performer”, with Brian suggesting he would have dismissed the term, saying: “I’m a performer, darling.”
Adam said yesterday the chat was unique, despite the group being together since 2011. He added: “They’re not usually comfortable speaking about Freddie’s sexuality on camera – they respect his privacy. But we found a way to speak about it in a respectful manner. It wasn’t revealing secrets. It was how it informed him as a creative, an artist, a human and bandmate.
“I always try to honour Freddie. Everything I do on stage is a tribute to him. I’m honoured that they felt comfortable with me and open to talk about their experience with Freddie and his experience as a queer man in a time where it was taboo to talk about it publicly.” The iconic band were formed back in 1970 with original members Freddie Mercury, Brian May and Roger Taylor.
Queen’s Brian and Roger rarely discuss Freddie’s sexuality on camera
Original frontman Freddie died in 1991 at the age of 45 – losing his life due to health complications caused by the AIDs virus. The band have continued – with American singer Adam taking the mantle as lead singer in 2011. Brian, 76, previously signalled the group may have to hang up their touring boots soon.
He said: “There’s a strong possibility that we’ll be going out together again. We’re talking about that as you and I speak, making those decisions. Now, it does get to be more of a decision as you get older. I’m not 35 anymore, and leaving home for two months is not easy. But we feel as like if we’re all fit and well, that we’d like to go out there one more time.”
Last year, Brian revealed he still “misses the butterflies” he would feel while watching the flamboyant frontman strut his stuff on stage. “Freddie was a fantastic mate and a great brother,” he said. “I liked it when he broke the rules, what he said to the audience and the risk he took. I am sure if he was here today we would still be doing it and the mothership would still be steaming around the world, because he lived for music and lived for the band – it was his family.”
Drummer Roger added: “Freddie is still around, he is part of our make-up. If he was still around I don’t know if we would be still working but I would hope so. That was part of Freddie’s raison d’etre. I mean what else would we do?”
At nearly 70 years old, Reba McEntire continues to prove why she’s the undisputed queen of country music. Her recent performance of “I Can’t” at the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards was nothing short of legendary. This iconic woman is still out here, not just staying relevant, but delivering hit after hit, showing that age is no barrier when it comes to sheer talent, passion, and dedication to the craft.
The energy Reba brought to the stage was electrifying, as she effortlessly delivered a flawless rendition of her hit song “I Can’t.” Dressed in her signature style, she commanded the room, captivating both fans and fellow artists alike. Her vocals were rich and powerful, reminding everyone why she’s been a cornerstone of country music for decades. The crowd roared with applause, giving her the kind of standing ovation that only a true legend deserves.
Performing live on one of the biggest nights in country music, Reba’s stage presence was magnetic. Her ability to connect with the audience and deliver the emotional weight of the song left a lasting impression. It’s clear that Reba McEntire is still very much at the top of her game, continuing to release bangers and maintaining her reign as the queen of country music. With her performance at the ACM Awards, she’s proven once again that age is just a number, and her legacy will only continue to grow. Long live the queen!
Many viewers prematurely crowned Jeremy Beloate the season 26 winner of The Voice after he scored a four-chair turn with his dazzling Blind Audition performance of Giveon’s “Heartbreak Anniversary.” The Memphis singer joined coach Michael Bublé’s team. After losing the three-way Knockout Round to Sofronio Vasquez, Beloate found himself stolen by Snoop Dogg. And the “Drop It Like It’s Hot” rapper is surely feeling secure in this decision after the R&B singer’s Playoffs performance.
“He Needs To Be On Broadway”
We are officially one week closer to learning the identity of The Voice’s season 26 winner. The Playoff Rounds continue during tonight’s (Monday, Nov. 25) episode. As each coach can advance just two artists to the Live Shows, now is the time to leave everything on the stage. And Jeremy Beloate certainly understood the assignment. The Mississippi-born artist’s voice filled every inch of the room as he performed “The Impossible Dream,” from the 1965 Broadway musical Man of La Mancha.
“Wow. I am speechless. That literally touched my soul. In tears and I dont know why,” one viewer wrote on X/Twitter. “I have never been a person that likes theater/broadway plays. But he needs to be on Broadway.”
Jeremy Beloate Has Snoop “Shedding Tears of Joy” on ‘The Voice’
The coaches agreed. “Damn, Snoop!” exclaimed Michael Bublé, Beloate’s former coach. “Dude, that is one of my favorite performances so far.”
A choked-up Reba McEntire said, “I haven’t been that touched listening to anybody sing until you. You have got a voice that penetrated my heart… I can see you on Broadway.”
An equally emotional Snoop Dogg admitted to “shedding tears of joy.”
“You made me feel like I was sitting at a real Broadway play,” The Voice newcomer said. “I was crying, and I don’t care… Something about the way you make me feel… Jeremy, you are blessed.”
A Kinder Bueno chocolate cake is a delicious dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the irresistible creamy and crunchy filling of Kinder Bueno bars. Here’s a recipe for making your own Kinder Bueno chocolate cake from scratch:
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup cocoa powder
1 ½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp salt
2 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
½ cup vegetable oil
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
½ cup boiling water
For the Filling and Frosting:
200g Kinder Bueno bars (around 4 bars)
2 cups heavy cream
2 tbsp powdered sugar (optional, for sweetness)
100g Nutella (for an added chocolate hazelnut flavor)
½ cup milk chocolate (for coating)
2 tbsp hazelnuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch cake pans.
In a large bowl, sift together the flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract together until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until combined.
Stir in the boiling water. The batter will be quite runny, but this will give the cake a moist texture.
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Filling and Frosting:
While the cake is cooling, chop the Kinder Bueno bars into small pieces.
In a bowl, whisk the heavy cream until stiff peaks form (you can use an electric mixer for this).
Gently fold in the powdered sugar, Nutella, and the chopped Kinder Bueno pieces into the whipped cream to make the filling/frosting.
Set aside some of the chopped Kinder Bueno pieces to decorate the cake.
3. Assemble the Cake:
Place one layer of the cake on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of the Kinder Bueno filling over the top.
Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining Kinder Bueno whipped cream mixture.
Drizzle melted milk chocolate over the top of the cake, then sprinkle with the reserved chopped Kinder Bueno pieces and any chopped hazelnuts (if using) for added texture.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Let the cake sit for a while so the flavors can meld. Slice, serve, and enjoy the indulgent layers of chocolate and Kinder Bueno goodness!
This cake is a perfect treat for chocolate lovers and those who enjoy the sweet, creamy flavor of Kinder Bueno.
The 41st Kennedy Center Honors Award ceremony was held at the Kennedy Center Opera House located in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. on December 26, 2018. This prestigious event honors individuals for their lifetime artistic achievements. During this gala, Adam Lambert delivered a captivating performance in tribute to Cher, who was among the celebrated recipients. The American Idol alum performed Cher’s iconic 1998 hit “Believe”, moving the legendary pop diva to tears.
Amanda Seyfried set the stage for Lambert, who took the iconic “Believe,” a chart-topping sensation from Cher’s repertoire, and masterfully reimagined it as a haunting ballad. As the frontman for Queen and a former standout on American Idol, Lambert captured the audience with his stunning interpretation, leaving the guest of honor, Cher herself, visibly touched, even to the point of tears. With a full orchestra backing him, Lambert’s rendition was both emotionally charged and vocally impressive, offering a fresh emotional depth to the beloved lyrics.
Watch the performance here:
But the night was filled with more than one tribute to the music legend. Cyndi Lauper, another titan of the pop industry, delivered an electrifying performance of Cher’s beloved “If I Could Turn Back Time” from 1989, which drew a playful and surprised reaction from Cher herself.
The event also featured tributes from Whoopi Goldberg and the band Little Big Town, celebrating Cher’s monumental career.
Cher wasn’t the only performer to be surprised at the Kennedy Center Honors. Other distinguished recipients included the illustrious Reba McEntire, jazz saxophonist Wayne Shorter, composer Philip Glass, and the creative forces behind the musical “Hamilton”: Lin-Manuel Miranda, Thomas Kail, Andy Blankenbuehler, and Alex Lacamoire.
As an added treat, Kelly Clarkson and Kristin Chenoweth delivered performances in tribute to the country music icon Reba McEntire, adding to the night’s spectacular array of talent.
The 2018 Kennedy Center Honors was a night replete with tributes to legends. To relive the magic of these performances, visit the CBS YouTube channel for the full array of clips from the event.
Susan Boyle’s journey is a modern-day fable that unfolded across reality TV, social media, tabloids, and television specials, captivating audiences worldwide. While her story is well-known in the US and UK, it bears revisiting, especially for those unfamiliar with her tale.
At its core, Susan Boyle’s narrative embodies the classic themes of triumph over adversity and the importance of looking beyond appearances. Born in Russia and raised in West Germany, Boyle faced early challenges with a misdiagnosis of brain damage. This misclassification shaped her life before and after her iconic audition on Britain’s Got Talent (BGT) in 2009.
Boyle’s audition, where she sang with raw emotion and vulnerability, quickly became a viral sensation. Despite initial skepticism from the audience, she won hearts with her soul-stirring performance. Throughout her BGT journey, Boyle’s authenticity and resilience shone through, earning her a place as a fan favorite.
Her subsequent duet with idol Elaine Paige and the release of her debut album, “I Dreamed a Dream,” catapulted Boyle to international stardom. Despite finishing as the runner-up on BGT, Boyle’s career soared, making her the best-selling debut artist in the UK and breaking records on both sides of the Atlantic.
Boyle’s journey has been marked by personal struggles, including battles with health issues and public scrutiny. However, her unwavering determination and inner strength have helped her overcome obstacles time and again.
In Boyle’s own words, her late mother’s encouragement to pursue happiness served as a guiding light throughout her journey. With her angelic voice and unyielding spirit, Susan Boyle continues to inspire millions, proving that true talent and resilience can overcome even the toughest of challenges.
This celebrity’s biological parents gave her up for adoption when she was just a baby.
The star’s birth parents didn’t want her when she was born because their careers meant more to them.
The actress’ adoptive parents lied about her background until the truth came out.
On May 8, 1964, the future celebrity was born in a Los Angeles hospital called The French Hospital, which no longer exists. When she was only 24 hours old, the star was taken in by Barbara Crane and Paul Gilbert, her adoptive parents.
The pair also adopted her younger brother, Jonathan. Paul was a stand-up comic, actor, and dancer but started as an aerialist with a family circus from Buenos Aires, Barbara was an actress in her twenties, but her career was short-lived. When the little girl was six, Barbara and Paul separated, with his daughter recalling him fondly, saying:
In 1976, Paul passed on with people thinking he’d died from a stroke while sleeping. Her adoption wasn’t kept a secret. In her book, “Prairie Tale: A Memoir,” the star said she was told as a child that her biological mother, Kathy Wood, was a prima ballerina while her father, David Darlington, had been a Rhodes Scholar.
Her adoptive parents said her birth parents weren’t interested in giving up their careers to bring her up. The celebrity’s father was said to have been in the middle of a project, and the timing of the birth was off, so they gave their daughter up.
When she was old enough, she found out the real truth about her biological parents. Her birth mother was indeed a dancer but not a prima ballerina, and David worked as a sign painter and a stock car racer.
Both Kathy and David were initially married to other people, and each had three children. The pair ran off, got pregnant, and then moved in with their children but decided they couldn’t afford their seventh one.
Adoptive Parents Didn’t Want Her
After her adoptive father passed away, the actress was shocked to find more details about her adoption. Her godmother, Mitzi, delved into the day her adoptive parents fetched her from the hospital.
She confessed it was a shock when the Gilberts returned with their new child. The actress was surprised by this and, along with other family members, turned to look at Barbara, who admitted:
“I mean, we had no plans to adopt a child.”
Barbara said she and her husband weren’t looking for a child when they got a phone call that the little girl would be available. The star’s adoptive mother called her husband, who was on the road, and he told her to “‘go get it.’”
She told the interviewer that keeping such a deep secret wasn’t something she’d do to her children…
She was shocked to hear herself being called an “it,” but Barbara explained that at that point, she hadn’t been born yet. Later, Barbara told her they had been trying to get pregnant when they were informed about her impending arrival.
The couple was going through fertility treatments, but until they received the call, the Gilberts hadn’t discussed the option of adoption, according to Barbara. In a July 2020 interview, the actress shared how secretive her adoptive family was.
The Family Secrets
While speaking to “CBS Sunday Morning,” the celebrity revealed that at age 11, she was told her father died from a stroke. However, at age 45, she discovered that he’d died by suicide.
The secret was kept from everyone in the star’s life, including herself. She told the interviewer that keeping such a deep secret wasn’t something she’d do to her children as such secrets were quite damaging to families.
The actress hired a detective to find out what truly happened to her adoptive father. The detective discovered that the late World War II veteran was in extreme pain while under VA care and threatened to commit suicide, which he did.
When she discovered the truth about Paul, for around six months, she couldn’t eat or sleep as she battled the pain of losing her father that way. However, she’s since accepted it and honors his choice while keeping his memory alive by becoming an advocate for mental health awareness and suicide prevention.
After feeling betrayed and resentful for a long time, the star also accepted and forgave Barbara for her choice to hide the truth. The name of the celebrity and what type of life she has now is revealed in the next chapter.
Who Is the Star Who Was Once Abandoned but Later Became a Well-Known Actress?
The actress is Melissa Gilbert, who is well-loved as Laura “Half-Pint” Ingalls Wilder from the beloved series “Little House on the Prairie” from 1974 until 1983. In July 2022, she released her memoir, “Back to the Prairie,” and now spends her time with her family.
The star confessed to being “blessed” and notes how she’s in a different place compared to her late adoptive father. Her wish is for Paul to have known the joy grandchildren brought and the love of a life partner who makes you feel safe, cherished, and heard.
Melissa is married to her third husband, Timothy Busfield, and in May 2022, they were grandparents to a combined eight grandchildren. In 2012, Busfield was dealing with his second divorce when he walked into an empty bar and saw the actress waiting for a friend.
The couple held a small ceremony in April 2013 in Santa Barbara, California, to tie the knot with Melissa wearing a Morgane Le Faye dress. Barbara was the one who suggested the brand’s Santa Monica store when her daughter couldn’t decide what she wanted.
In her “Back to the Prairie” book, she revealed that the private affair, where Busfield wore a blue suit, didn’t have guests, as it was just the two of them. The celebrity, who spent almost all her life in Hollywood, welcomed her first child son, Dakota Paul Brinkman, from her first marriage to actor Bo Brinkman.
Melissa’s second child, Michael Garrett Boxleitner, came when she married her second husband, Bruce Boxleitner. Busfield was also a parent of three children, Samuel, Daisy, and Wilson, and he and his wife now live quietly in a 14-acre Catskill Mountain cottage in New York.