45+ Foods That Don't Actually Need to Be Refrigerated

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Pumpkins are a lot like squash -- they're both winter gourds if you think about it! If you really want to extend your pumpkin's shelf-life, it should be kept at room temperature away from moisture. Moisture could decrease the life of your delicious fall fruit (yes, pumpkin is a fruit!).

Pumpkins

Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can be very harmful to the pumpkin. Keep them in a controlled environment like the pantry or a cupboard. If you plan on using your pumpkin as food, you can always cut it up and freeze it to ensure it'll be fresh when you're ready!

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Did you know...

  • Just saying the words "thank you" can measurably improve your mood. Researchers can actually measure happiness and changes in brain structure when people practiced regular "grateful thinking." This included things like writing thank you notes, writing gratitude journal entries, mindfully counting their blessings, and thanking friends. It may be helpful in overcoming depression!
  • Do you know what the strongest muscle in your body is? No, it’s not your biceps or your thighs. It’s actually in your head. The masseter is a muscle in the jaw that is used when chewing. When all of the muscles of the jaw work together, they can exert a force as strong as 200 pounds on the molars. That’s some serious pressure.
  • Starting to feel claustrophobic? The smells of apples may help keep your claustrophobic feelings at bay according to a 1995 study by Dr. Alan Hirsch. Green apples, specifically, helped people change their perception of their space. Maybe they thought of expansive apple orchards? Cucumbers and barbecue made the feelings worse.
  • A hearty laugh is good for the heart. Laughing can increase blood flow by 20%. Additionally, looking on the bright side can help you live longer. Studies have shown that a more optimistic outlook is linked to a healthier heart, lower blood pressure, and a lower risk for coronary artery disease.
  • Have you ever told your husband something and he promptly forgets it? It's not his fault, actually. It really is because he's a man. The hippocampus (the part of the brain that deals with memory) begins to shrink with age faster in men than it does in women. That's why you can remember everything, and he can't!