Why a Low BMI Can Be Just as Unhealthy as a High BMI

Nov 22, 2018

The potential health risks correlated with a body mass index (BMI) that’s categorized as overweight or obese have been well documented, and even used to body shame people in the guise of health advice. However, we don’t often hear about the very real dangers of having a BMI that’s identified as underweight. A new study published in The Lancet looked at how BMI relates to your risk of death from all causes. It found that while a high BMI does increase your risk of dying from certain types of cancers or cardiovascular, respiratory, and digestive conditions compared to people with a BMI in the so-called healthy range, people with a low BMI also saw an increased risk of contracting some of these diseases.

People with low BMIs were the most likely of all participants to die from a mental or neurological disease. And while the life expectancy after 40 years old for a person assigned female at birth with an obese BMI decreased by 3.5 years compared to someone with a healthy BMI, for someone with a low BMI, it was shortened by 4.5 years. “While a low BMI is sometimes perceived as desirable, it is important to recognize that an underweight BMI may signal a health issue, just as an overweight or obese BMI might,” says registered dietitian and certified dietitian nutritionist Alyssa Lavy, owner of Alyssa Lavy Nutrition & Wellness. Read on for the skinny on the health risks of being underweight.

What Health Risks Are Associated With Low BMI?

As the study points out, a low BMI indicates an increased risk of dying from certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases, as well as respiratory, digestive, and blood and endocrine diseases. Part of that reduced life expectancy might be explained by the fact that people often slip into the low BMI category because they are already ill: “A low BMI is often associated with some type of benign illness or a malignancy. That could be digestive (e.g., inflammatory bowel disease or liver disease), respiratory, behavioral (e.g., cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol intake, drug usage), or mental (such as anorexia),” explains Dr. Michael Wood, Director of the Bariatric Surgery Program at DMC Harper University Hospital and Fellow of the American College of Surgeons.

With or without other preexisting conditions, being underweight can have severe repercussions for your health. Dr. Richard Honaker, Chief Medical Officer at YourDoctors.Online, cautions, “When your weight is low, your body has to reroute essentials to the most needy spots, which shortchanges some parts of the body. For example, calcium will be taken out of bone for metabolic needs elsewhere, resulting in osteopenia or osteoporosis.” This redistribution doesn’t just happen in your bones. “When you are severely malnourished, your body wants to protect itself and will try to break down your organs for fuel in order to save you,” warns Dr. Stephanie Long, a San Francisco-based family physician with One Medical and Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. “When your body doesn’t have the building blocks to function at a basic level, you begin to see significant problems, including menstrual irregularity that can lead to fertility issues, decreased immune function, and complications when recovering from routine surgeries.” Dr. Honaker sums it up: “Whereas a high BMI is mainly unhealthy, a very low BMI is unsafe.”

Why Don’t We Hear About the Risks of Being Underweight?

If having a low BMI is potentially more dangerous than being in the overweight or obese BMI category, why don’t we hear as many messages warning against it? Dr. Brian Bender, PhD, an LA-based nutritionist and co-founder of personalized diet tracker Intake, suggests that, firstly, fewer people are in the dangerously low weight category compared to the number of people who are considered overweight or obese. This means that, although people with low BMIs are also at increased risk of some of the same illnesses as people with high BMIs, doctors are more likely to see them in patients in the latter category, so they tend to focus on high BMI as the cause, without acknowledging that a BMI in the opposite direction is also dangerous.

Another important factor, argues Greg Pignataro, a personal trainer with Grindset Fitness and certified strength and conditioning specialist, is that, “BMI has a borderline shocking tolerance for what is considered ‘normal’ at the lower end of the spectrum. For example, a 5’9″ individual isn’t considered underweight until they hit about 120 pounds. In my professional opinion, that is far too low. I believe it can be detrimental to classify such a low weight as ‘normal’; it sends the message that this is desirable, which can be problematic.” In addition, Dr. Bender adds, one of the most telling outcomes for people with a low BMI was increased risk of self-harm and suicide: “The healthcare system is less adept at dealing with mental-health related risks.” He also points out, “A less likely but still significant reason is that over 70 percent of the low-BMI individuals in the study were identified as women, and health risks related to women and people assigned female at birth have historically been less of a focus.”

What Should We Take From This Study?

Being underweight is, unfortunately, more socially acceptable than being obese, and it’s more likely to garner praise than the kind of abuse often leveled at people deemed overweight. But, while no one should be shamed for their body, it’s certainly not healthy. “As a society, we don’t pay as much attention to the health risks of being underweight,” says Dr. Long. “Being underweight carries chronic stress in the same way as if you’re overweight.”

Although your BMI can indicate your risk of certain health problems, it’s only one measure of health. What many people don’t know is that BMI was never intended as a measure of individual health: It was a formula originally created by a Belgian statistician studying populations as a whole that he based on an ethnically homogeneous sample of white Europeans. “BMI provides us with information about the relationship between height and weight, but it is far from all-inclusive,” agrees Lavy. “It is a good idea to also look at body composition values, including total fat mass. Analyzing lab values, such as blood glucose and hemoglobin A1c [to test for diabetes], as well as individual nutrients such as vitamin D, and looking at an individual’s daily habits — from physical activity to dietary choices — can reveal a lot about someone’s health without emphasis on weight.”

Given the ties between mental health and low BMI mentioned in the study, it’s also important to be aware of attitudes and behaviors around food and weight. “Mental health should be a larger focus of overall health and wellness measurements,” urges Dr. Bender. “Stress, anxiety, and cultural pressures can drive eating disorders that lead to a low BMI or a high BMI. Not to mention, mental health problems can drive morbidity and mortality not associated with BMI at all.” Your health isn’t just about a number: It’s about the emotions and behaviors that drive you to look after or neglect your body. Ultimately, if you feel like your relationship to your weight and your body is out of control, however that manifests, you have the right to have your health concerns taken seriously.

How do you strive to be healthy at every size? Tweet us @BritandCo.

(Photos via Getty)

Megan Fox Gives Birth To Daughter Amidst Machine Gun Kelly Breakup

Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly (MGK) have always been a dramatic duo, but they're taking the drama to new heights right now: they're breaking up, according to TMZ. The Kourtney Kardashian and Travis Barker BFFs announced they were expecting their first child together, making this all way more complicated than a simple split. And Megan Fox just gave birth to their sweet new baby.

Here's everything to know about Machine Gun Kelly and Megan Fox's baby— & their breakup.

Did Megan Fox have her baby?

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Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly may not be together, but they have a lot to celebrate now that their daughter made her grand debut! Machine Gun Kelly eagerly announced her arrival on Instagramby sharing a small black and white video of him holding her toes.

No matter where he and Megan stand, the rapper made it clear he's excited their daughter was born safe and sound. The sweetest part of his caption is him calling the newborn a "little celestial seed."

He also explained that Travis Barker helped welcome their daughter through music, adding, "We composed the score of the birth. What an epic journey. Praise God."

We also love positive the comments on the announcement post are! Even MTV couldn't resist commenting by writing, "congratulations ♥️."

And get this, Megan's birth was aided by music. "We composed the score of the birth. What an epic journey. Praise God," Kelly told E! News. If you're wondering whose music they were listening to, it's none other than Travis Barker!

Did Machine Gun Kelly and Megan Fox break up?

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TMZ reported Megan Fox and Machine Gun Kelly broke up on Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The pair allegedly split on Thanksgiving weekend in Vail, Colorado given "upsetting material" Megan found on MGK's phone. Apparently they haven't been together since the breakup, with MGK going as far as to leave their trip early.

Megan announced she was pregnant on Instagram a month before they allegedly broke up, on November 11, 2024. According to PEOPLE, MGK was "basically telling everyone he knows" about the baby, and that the pair is "doing well" in general. Now, it seems like the tables have really turned in the latter regard.

However, an exclusive source told PEOPLE, "Their relationship has always been bumpy. They love each other but don't have compatible personalities." The source explained that Megan and MGK are "both hot-heads, dramatic and stubborn," noting that they've "worked things out" when they broke up in the past. "When they're good together, they're great," they said. "They will very likely get back together."

PEOPLE reported that Megan and MGK announced their engagement on Instagram on January 12, 2022. However, the Jennifer's Body star only features her pregnancy announcement on Instagram now — and while MGK doesn't have a post on his grid either, you can still see his video of her engagement ring here!

Looking for more celebrity news? Be sure to follow us on Facebook so you never miss a thing!

This post has been updated.

10 Target New Arrivals That Are Literally Perfect For Spring

It’s always a great day when Target drops a whole set of new fashion finds! We scrolled through 22 entire pages of their site and uncovered only the most iconic pieces for spring – think trendy tops, breezy maxi skirts, and perfect spring dresses!

What we love most about these 10 Target new arrivals is that they’re super stylish, yet super affordable. Whether you're set on refreshing your entire spring wardrobe or just looking to add a few statement pieces, these new budget-friendly finds are totally worth shopping.

Scroll on for our top 10 favorite new finds from Target for the cutest spring and summer outfits!

Target

Wild Fable Open-Back Halter Denim Vest

This denim vest makes the perfect going-out top for warm spring and summer nights. It's totally 'business in the front, party in the back' with its open-back design that lets you show some skin! Get playful with this piece and pair it with mismatching denim shorts or jeans.

Target

Wild Fable Puff Sleeve Tie-Front Peplum Blouse

This Scandi-inspired gingham top features some ties in the front, that when paired with a peplum hem and puff sleeves, become super fun and youthful for the spring season. Target's even selling some adorable coordinating capris to make it a set!

Target

A New Day Long Line Vest

Wearable to the office and happy hour alike, this sleek longline vest is so flattering since it elongates your torso. It supplies a good amount of coverage, too!

Target

A New Day Tube Knit Maxi Dress

Drop-waist dresses are bound to be everywhere this spring. Embrace the trend with this stunning strapless moment for just $40. This piece can pair well with sandals, loafers, sneakers, boots – the list goes on!

Target

Wild Fable Relaxed Baggy Overalls

Overalls are a great one-and-done outfit to have on-hand in the springtime. This pair boasts a comfy relaxed fit, so you can layer it over tees and tanks with ease.

Target

A New Day Checked Pleated A-Line Skirt

Oh, so chic! This pleated skirt is designed with a dropped waistline to flatter your figure. It's fitted with a perfect touch of class in case you want to pull an elevated look this season.

Target

Wild Fable Ruffle Midi A-Line Skirt

For flirtier effect, this floral mmidi skirt is covered in spring-ready colors and embellished with he cutest ruffle hem! Whether you wear it casually or more formally, you'll want to live in it all season long.

Target

Wild Fable Puff Sleeve Flyaway Blouse

White blouses are our #1 wear come springtime, so we're absolutely enamored with this lightweight one that boasts the most stunning feminine touches, from the tied bows up front to the eyelet lining along the neckline.

Target

Universal Thread High-Rise Sailor Wide Leg Ankle Jeans

Statement piece central! These wide-leg jeans come in so many playful colors, but this bright blue truly can't be missed.

Target

Wild Fable Tie-Front Cami

Gingham is for the girls! This breezy cami flows with your body for a comfy, yet flattering spring 'fit.

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more amazing Target finds!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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10 Trader Joe’s Finds That Are "Miraculously" Low-Fat

Believe it or not, but Trader Joe’s is a total goldmine for low-fat finds that are actually tasty. From delicious breakfast options to heartier meals and mid-day snacks, Trader Joe’s is stocked with plenty of options that make eating healthy super easy and delicious. If you're looking to lighten up your grocery haul without sacrificing the things you love, these must-try TJ’s products are definitely worth adding to your cart!

Scroll on for the 10 best low-fat Trader Joe’s finds to shop now.

Trader Joe's

Icelandic Style Skyr Lowfat Cherry Yogurt

With a mere 1.5% milkfat, this low-fat yogurt is still deliciously thick and creamy so you can feel fulfilled after breakfast. This one's flavored with cherry purée, though TJ's carries more flavors like raspberry and vanilla.

Trader Joe's

Cauliflower Gnocchi

This cauli-based gnocchi with 3 grams of fat per serving is too good. It cooks up to be crispy on the outside, but plenty tender on the inside for balance.

Trader Joe's

Reduced Guilt Spinach & Kale Greek Yogurt Dip

This better-for-you dip carries just 2 grams of fat and 30 calories per 2-tablespoon serving. Yum! It's loaded with kale, spinach, water chestnuts, red peppers, carrots, green onions, and garlic for immaculate flavors and textures.

Trader Joe's

Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil Chicken Tenders

Pre-seasoned anything is such a convenient time-saver in the kitchen, and these tenders are no exception. Flavored with sun-dried tomato and basil, they go great with Italian-themed feasts or just a simple side of roasted veggies. One serving is only 2 grams of fat, too!

Trader Joe's

Whole Wheat English Muffins

Whole grains are insanely good for you, though these English muffins packed with them don't necessarily taste obviously healthy. They're so tasty whether you pile on something sweet or something savory – one serving has just 1.5 grams of fat!

Trader Joe's

Organic Vegetarian Chili

This veggie chili makes comfort food way more accessible, whether you're in it for the convenience factor (hello, heat and eat!) or the low-fat factor. It's packed with textured pea protein for a "meaty" feel, so you won't even miss the real thing. One can of this TJ's find carries 8 grams of fat!

Trader Joe's

Cauliflower Pizza Crusts

These readymade crusts make getting your pizza fix in super easy! The dough is made from a simple medley of shredded cauliflower, whole eggs, and grated Parmesan and seasoned with garlic and herbs for added flavor. One crust clocks in at 6 grams of fat.

Trader Joe's

Chickpea Fusilli Pasta

Not only is this chickpea pasta packed with protein (11 grams, to be exact), it's a good option for low-fat eaters since it contains just 2.5 grams of fat per serving. Serve with your favorite pasta sauce, and you're set!

Trader Joe's

Chicken Gyoza Potstickers

Potstickers for just 2 grams of fat per serving?! Count us in! These babies are loaded up with chicken for protein and cabbage and onion for texture and flavor.

Trader Joe's

Crunchy Curls

This cult-fave TJ's snack is notoriously low in fat with only 5 grams per serving. It's also certifiably vegan!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more great Trader Joe's products!

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29 New April Book Releases To Add To Your Calendar STAT

Spring is here and it's brought the promise of more riveting new books with it! Bookish readers will love getting lost in our most-anticipated recommendations by authors Sarah Damoff, Allison Raskin, and more! We know how much you love rom-coms, but we've also included mystery, romantasy, and self-improvement titles to give you a range of TBR picks to choose from.

Scroll to find the best swoon-worthy rom-coms, nail-biting mysteries, and helpful self-improvement books debuting in April!

The Best Fiction Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Griffin Sisters' Greatest Hits by Jennifer Weiner (April 8, 2025)

Sisters Cassie and Zoe Grossberg were once the the greatest pop stars ever. Known to the public as The Griffin Sisters, their hits coupled with public appearances made them ultra popular. However, their personalities have always been different and it's part of what eventually drove them apart.

Between Zoe being a mom and Cassie living an obscured life, the only person who seems to have an idea of what happened to their careers is Zoe's daughter Cherry. But the only way the past can be healed is if everyone's willing to confront it and reconcile the lives they currently live.

Amazon

Happy Land by Dolen Perkins-Valdez (April 8, 2025)

Nikki's been caught in the middle of a strange feud between her mom and grandmother, so she's shocked when the latter wants her to visit. Before long, Nikki arrives in North Carolina and hopes to discover what happened to the women she loves. Instead, her grandmother begins to tell her about a forgotten kingdom that her great-great-great grandmother Luella was queen of. Adding to Nikki's astonishment is the revelation that her grandmother is telling the truth based on the artifacts the young woman finds hidden in the hills.

Sadly, there are people who are threatening to completely erase the Kingdom of Happy Land's history which leaves Nikki in charge of saving it.

Amazon

A Proposal to Die For by Molly Harper (April 8, 2025)

Jessamine Bricker is a planner who knows how to make situations flow effortlessly. It's why she's successful at proposal plannings. However, she decides to help a former classmate named Diana and her boyfriend Trenton Tillard, IV to continue affording her office. She'd rather not, but she doesn't want to be pushed out of the space she's in. It's how Jessamine finds herself being a reluctant guest during Diana's pre-wedding trip.

Beginning with day one, one thing after the other goes wrong and it leaves Jessamine wondering why she agreed to help Diana and Trenton. But the scariest thing involves a murder that seeks to destroy everything and everyone...maybe even Jessamine.

Amazon

The Eightsby Joanna Miller (April 15, 2025)

In 1920, four young women are allowed to study at the prestigious and exclusive Oxford University. Their arrival is immediately balked at because women weren't traditionally allowed to attend before, but that doesn't completely deter Beatrice, Dora, Marianne, and Otto. For them, being on campus is fueled by individual desires that are revealed over time.

As their time on campus ebbs and flows, these young women will discover a tenacity they never knew they had. Not only that, but they'll also forge an incredible sisterhood that gets them through the toughest times of their lives.

Amazon

To Have and Have More by Sanibel (April 15, 2025)

Emery Hooper and Lilah Chang may be Asian students who attend Derrymore Academy, but that's where their similarities end. While the adopted Emery has perfectly assimilated into the culture around her, she finds Lilah to be a cringey representation of Asians. She's also unsure why Lilah is working so hard to be her friend.

But over time, Emery begins to see how much she's subject to covert racism despite being wealthy. It's what eventually unites her and Lilah because they begin to see how much some things can't save you from harmful rhetoric that's ingrained in society.

Amazon

The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff (April 22, 2025)

Ryan and Lillian Bright may have built their marriage on love, but their secrets eventually tear them apart. It's something their daughter Georgette witnesses, causing her to back away from their once close-knit family. But even her plans are changed when Lillian's secret son appears. This forces Georgette to learn more about her family so she's able to see if love can save everyone.

Amazon

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

Margaret Ryan starts off living a life that every woman dreams of in the 1960s. She has it all — the cushy husband, kids, and comfortable life — and it seems like she's content. However, a perceptive person would be able to pinpoint how unfulfilled she is. It's something she wasn't willing to admit until her new neighbor Charlotte Gustafson moved to Concordia.

Charlotte's mysterious and intriguing, prompting Margaret to start her own book clubwith two other women. Soon, she, Charlotte, Bitsy, and Viv begin meeting to dissect The Feminine Mystique. It's a classic book that begins making them question their suburban lives which opens them up to even more books that help them challenge the status quo.

Though they didn't anticipate this, these four women's friendship becomes a sturdy foundation during the most pivotal year of their lives.

The Best Romance Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Save the Date by Allison Raskin (April 8, 2025)

Couples therapist Emma Moskowitz's life is left in shambles when the abrupt end of her engagement upends her wedding, career, and book plans. As far as her audience knows, she's skilled at matters of the heart so she feels like she's letting everyone down when she comes up short in the romance department.

Unwilling to give up her wedding date, Emma concocts an intriguing plan to find someone who's willing to marry her in the next 6 months. Call it desperate, but sharing her plans online garners a ton of attention that leaves her torn between a podcast produced named Will and the divorced Matt. But, you can't possibly find love that'll stand the test of time in such a short amount of time...right

Amazon

That's What She Said by Eleanor Pilcher (April 15, 2025)

Are you really best friends if your personalities don't differ a little bit? For Serena and Beth, it's amazing they've been able to find things in common because their outlooks aren't similar. Whereas Beth seems to be a walking shell of a person, Serena brazenly lives a full life. But some things just make sense and that sums up their friendship.

One day, Beth makes a shocking revelation that delights Serena because she's been waiting for her friend's sexual desires to be awakened. The latter gets to work helping Beth get comfortable with what she wants and it seems like things are headed in the right direction. But an old crush and a FWB situation confuses both women, leading them to wonder if their friendship will survive.

Amazon

Gold Coast Dilemma by Nana Malone (April 29, 2025)

Ofosua Addo thinks she's found the love of her life when she and Cole Drake kiss for the first time, but there's two problems. One, she's an heiress to a vast empire and two, she's supposed to marry someone else her mother approves of. Being a good daughter means forging ahead with her wedding, but it comes crashing down in flames.

On her path to self-love and discovery, Ofosua and Cole cross paths again. This time, they'll have to remember why they fell for each other and if their love can cancel out tradition's strict protocol.

The Best Mystery & Thriller Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Bitterfrost by Bryan Gruley (April 1, 2025)

Jimmy Baker used to be a famed hockey player, but his career ended when he made a drastic decision. Since then, he's been a Zamboni driver who doesn't make waves in Bitterfrost, Michigan. It's not the life he wanted, but he has no other choice but to atone for his mistake. His days are mostly eventful until he's suddenly accused of a double murder he doesn't remember committing.

With the odds stacked against him, Jimmy will have to figure out what happened and if he's as violent as everyone says he is.

Amazon

Follow Me by Elizabeth Rose Quinn (April 1, 2025)

Adrienne Shaw is positive something foul happened to her twin sister Chiara when the latter vanishes during an influencer trip. Never mind the fact Adrienne never understood her sister's obsession with building a social media presence. It doesn't mean something bad should've happened.

Fed up with everyone's lack of a motive, Adrienne decides to visit the same retreat her sister went to because she's sure she'll find answers to her many questions. For a few days, Adrienne finds herself surrounded by toxic positivity and eyes that tell a different story than smiles do.

Amazon

Rabbit Moon by Jennifer Haigh (April 8, 2025)

Claire and Aaron Litvak's worlds come to a halt when they learn their daughter Lindsey's been hurt in China. Not only is she in critical condition, but the unlucky parents begin realizing her life in Shangai might not have been as linear as they thought. The only person who may have an idea of what happened is Lindsey's adopted sister Grace, but can Claire and Aaron piece together the truth before it's too late?

Amazon

The California Dreamers by Amy Mason Doan (April 8, 2025)

The Merrick siblings are used to beautiful California summers because they know they're guaranteed to have fun with their parents. However, a secret picture taken of them begins circulating and it puts them in danger. Years later, the patriarch of the Merrick family is being honored when a nosy journalist finds them and begins poking around their past.

The siblings will have to decide if they're ready to deal with the truth or if they're going to continue burying things like they've always done.

Amazon

Ruth Run by Elizabeth Kaufman (April 15, 2025)

Instead of using her intelligence to better the world, Ruth makes her money as a robber who targets banks. In a just a few years, she's managed to steal over $250 million thanks to her cyber smarts. But her clever plan is halted when she triggers an alarm that puts her in danger.

Now considered a high-level threat who could possibly help a government agency, Ruth tries to evade the agents on her trail who don't care how they capture her. It's clear their obsession with her borders other feelings, but Ruth isn't waiting to find out what they are.

Amazon

Coram House by Bailey Seybolt (April 15, 2025)

Young orphan Tommy's disappearance from Coram House in the late 1960s became an unsolved mystery that's haunted Lake Champlain ever since. It's the very case that's could restore true crime journalist Alex Kelley's career, so she jumps at the chance to lend her skills to a book about the orphanage Tommy once lived at. However, the stories surrounding him are complicated. Plus, Alex gets more than she bargained for when she stumbles across a dead woman's body floating in the lake.

She's convinced there's a connection between this and Tommy's case, but officer Russell Parker doesn't take her seriously. But he'll have to because more people are dying and Alex could be next.

Amazon

The Amalfi Curse by Sarah Penner (April 29, 2025)

Nautical archaeologist Haven Ambrose is supposed to be figuring out why ships keep wrecking in Positano, but she's also curious about what her father saw the last time he dived into the beautiful water. As soon as she arrives in town, strange things begin occurring that she has no explanation for.

The more she digs into her investigation, the more she unearths the chance of something magical at work. Despite one woman's desire to save the people she loves, she could've possibly cursed the Amalfi Curse and it's up to Haven to stop it before everything's ruined.

Amazon

A Campus on Fire by Patrick O'Dowd (April 29, 2025)

Student journalist Tess Azar wants to know why someone was killed in the writing program she's been lucky to be admitted to. As she investigates, she learns that something amiss is going on and it may involve a cult. There's also a growing right-wing group of students that are threatening to create more hysteria.

The Best Fantasy & Romantasy Books Debuting In April

Amazon

The Never List by Jade Presley (April 8, 2025)

The kingdom of Lumathyst may be destroyed soon unless the four immortal god-princes can secure their mate. Unfortunately, none of the women who have come before them have been suitable and they're running out of time. The issue is that the woman they choose will need to become immortal like them, but the process is brutal and doesn't guarantee survival. But Rylee Gray may be their saving grace if they don't uncover what she's hiding.

Amazon

The Raven Scholarby Antonia Hodgson (April 15, 2025)

Orrun has been peaceful ever since Bersun the Brusque ruled over it, but it's time for someone else to ascend the throne. So, everyone who considers themselves worthy begins to compete for the #1 spot because they think they have what it takes. But an untimely murder leaves High Scholar Neema Kraa scrambling to discover the murderer. What she doesn't know is that there are forces who are more than willing to help her and keep her out of harm's way at all costs.

Amazon

Awakenedby A.E. Osworth (April 29, 2025)

Wilder awakes to the realization they're able to decipher all languages. Dealing with confusion, they find safe haven with other witches who have also "awakened" to their hidden abilities. There's:

Quibble, a portal traveler
Artemis, a caretaker and seer
Mary Margaret, a powerful telekinetic individual

As soon as Wilder gets comfortable, something evil in the form of AI threatens everything they and their coven's come to know. Before long, their group has to contend with how much is too much when it comes to magic and artificial intelligence.

The Best Parenting Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Autism Out Loud: Life with a Child on the Spectrum, from Diagnosis to Young Adulthoodby Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood (April 1, 2025)

Autors Kate Swenson, Carrie Cariello, and Adrian Wood have on thing in common: they're parents of children who have autism. This has united them in more ways than one, leading them to write Autism Out Loud with the goal of sharing their firsthand insights. Readers will learn about everything from the diagnosis process to what it looks like to raise a child who has autism.

Amazon

Three Minutes for Mom: 365 Days of Empowerment, Encouragement, and Growth for a More Connected Motherhood by Erin Morrison (April 8, 2025)

Sometimes moms need a reminder they can have a few minutes to themselves which is why Erin Morrison's compiled Three Minutes for Mom. Each day will feature an opportunity to look at strengths and areas of growth, but readers will also discover boundless encouragement for one of the toughest jobs in the world.

The Best Self-Improvement Books & Inspirational Books Debuting In April

Amazon

Rewrite Your Rules: The Journey to Success in Less Time with More Freedomby Morgan DeBaun (April 1, 2025)

Blavity's founder Morgan DeBaun is here to share her success secrets with you. She built a powerful platform that aims to empower the Black community and knows that it helps to abide by certain principles that'll help propel you towards the career you want to have. Whether it's challenging certain rules or encouraging you to think outside of the box, readers will learn how to live the lives they want.

Be sure to visit Rewrite Your Rules for a robust look at how you can be living your best life!

Amazon

A Better Share: How Couples Can Tackle the Mental Load for More Fun, Less Resentment, and Great Sex by Dr. Morgan Cutlip (April 8, 2025)

This one's for all the couples who are still dealing with burnout. Dr. Morgan Cutlip knows there's no such thing as 50/50 in relationships, but that doesn't mean your relationship is doomed. In A Better Share, Dr. Cutlip explores things that affect partners like the mental and emotional load of everyday life. There's also great insight about how libidos are impact when people feel things aren't balanced or "fair." So, buckle up and get ready to transform your relationship.

Amazon

How to Giggle: A Guide to Taking Life Less Seriously by Hannah Berner and Paige Desorbo (April 15, 2025)

Featured in our best podcasts article, Hannah Berner and Paige DeSorbo are back with their first book How to Giggle. Instead of listening to them, readers will have a written account of how these two friends navigate life. From awkward moments to realizing men don't have to be the center of everything, you'll get a kick out of the joyous way they tackle real moments.

Amazon

Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Livesby Jessica Zucker, PhD (April 22, 2025)

After writing the groundbreaking I Had a Miscarriage,Jessica Zucker decided to take things a step further to expound on the many ways girls and women are taught to carry shame. Whether it's navigating body image, sexual harm, or menopause, certain topics are still considered taboo. But in Normalize It: Upending the Silence, Stigma, and Shame That Shape Women's Lives, Zucker's saying the quiet parts out loud.

Without missing a beat, she explains the many ways shame can show up in young girls and women's lives while also sharing helpful insight about how to explore a liberated life. It's empowering no matter what season of life you're in and one that I absolutely recommend!

The Best Cookbooks Debuting In April

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A Feast of Thorns and Rosesby Chelsea Cole (April 1, 2025)

Can't get enough of ACOTAR? Now you'll get a chance to cook meals inspired by the famous BookTok series! You'll find over 50 recipes that the creatures of Prythian eat (aside from carnivorous moments), that'll make you feel like you have a seat at one of the High Lord's table. Better yet, you'll become a pro at cooking meals that would make them pay you a visit!

Amazon

Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impressby Alix Traeger (April 22, 2025)

Alix Traeger doesn't expect you to be 5-star chef because life's too short for that. However, she does know you're interested in cooking meals that impress your family and friends. Inside of Scratch That: Embrace the Mess, Cook to Impress are recipes that even the most hazard-prone cook will find easy to follow. From girl dinner-esque appetizers to evening meals, anyone can have fun with Alix's cookbook!

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Jenny Han Just Teased A "Surprise" End To 'The Summer I Turned Pretty'

It's almost time to return to Cousins! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 is coming this summer, and Prime Video just gave us a first official look at Belly, Jeremiah, and Conrad. The new episodes will open at the end of Belly's freshman year of college, and in addition to seeing the evolution of our favorite characters, author and co-showrunner Jenny Han says "there are going to be surprises" in the final season. Eek!

Here's your first look at Lola Tung, Gavin Casalegno, and Christopher Briney in The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3, coming to Prime Video July 2025!

Jenny Han says 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' fans are in for a few surprises.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"There are the things that [fans] know and then there are things they think they know, and then there's going to be, hopefully, things that surprise them," Jenny Han tells Entertainment Weekly. Listen, I am a very proud member of Team Conrad, and seeing how cozy Belly and Jeremiah are in these pics (not to mention the set leak that's definitely not in the third book), I'm starting to wonder if Prime Video is teasing I should switch teams.

But no matter which team you're on, Lola Tung promises the season won't let you down.

Team #JellyFish will get their time this season.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

"The one thing I've always admired about Jenny is that every season and every decision about what's coming next is purely to serve the story," Lola says. "She's never going to do anything that doesn't make sense for the story. It's all about this beautiful world she's created and giving the fans something really, really special and giving us something really special to work with."

And that includes some sweet moments which Jeremiah and Belly, who "are, at their core, best friends," Lola adds. "That relationship is something that's so special and so unique to them, so it's exciting to see this season and how their relationship blossoms."

And 'The Summer I Turned Pretty' images also feature Conrad.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But don't worry Conrad fans, we also get a look at the elder Fisher brother who "we know that he went to Stanford, and so he's continuing on his journey to become a doctor, as you can see from that white coat," Jenny says. "I think people won't be surprised to see that."

Keep reading for more images from The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3!

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Jenny Han also teases this image is actually a flashback, "so do with that what you will." BRB, I'm off dreaming of a beach vacation. I also can't help but point out the warm color grade of this season! The golden look makes everything feel warmer and more magical — and offers a youthful glow as Belly gets older.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But for those of us who care more about Steven and Taylor (Sean Kaufman and Rain Spencer) than the main love triangle, we got this single crumb from the new images. And I'm more than happy about it, thank you very much.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Belly (Lola Tung) gets cozy on campus in a hoodie and sunglasses.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

And Belly and Jeremiah (Gavin Casalegno) get cozy with each other at a party.

Erika Doss/Prime Video

But they work as hard as they play! I have this exact outfit Belly's wearing, and you best believe I'm adding it into my fashion rotation.

How many episodes will The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 have?

Erika Doss/Prime Video

Great news! The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 will have 11 episodes instead of 7 or 8 like seasons 1 and 2 did. Stay tuned for the official release schedule.

Who's in the cast?

Prime Video

The Summer I Turned Pretty season 3 cast features all your favorites:

Lola Tung as Belly Conklin: a beach-loving volleyball player who's always dreaming of summer.
Christopher Briney as Conrad Fisher: Belly and Steven's lifelong friend who Belly's always had a crush on.
Gavin Casalegno as Jeremiah Fisher: Conrad's sunny younger brother.
Sean Kaufman as Steven Conklin: Belly's older brother.
Rain Spencer as Taylor Jewel: Belly's best friend.
Jackie Chungas Laurel Park: Belly and Steven's mom and Susannah Fisher's best friend.

Meet The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 3 Cast before the new episodes air on Prime Video this July!

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