Holy Unknown

IHOP, the International House of Pancakes, has been delighting patrons with its breakfast offerings since 1958. From their signature pancakes to omelets and crepes, the menu caters to a wide range of tastes. But a notable absence persists: pie. Given IHOP's identity as a diner-style restaurant, the lack of pie might seem surprising. Traditionally, diners are known for offering a variety of comfort foods, including an assortment of pies. Yet, IHOP has chosen to focus its dessert menu on items like ice cream sundaes and other sweet treats, leaving pie enthusiasts to seek their favorite dessert elsewhere. One reason for this omission could be IHOP's commitment to its breakfast-centric brand. By concentrating on breakfast items and related desserts, IHOP maintains a clear and consistent identity. Introducing pies might dilute this focus, potentially confusing customers about the restaurant's primary offerings. Another consideration is the practical aspect of menu management. Ex...

Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States, was known for his strong moral principles and honesty. Even if people didn't always agree with his political views, many respected his commitment to doing what he believed was right. Carter's presidency, from 1977 to 1981, faced challenges like economic problems and the Iran hostage crisis. Despite these issues, he remained dedicated to his values. He worked hard to promote human rights and sought peaceful solutions in foreign policy. For example, he played a key role in the Camp David Accords, which helped establish peace between Egypt and Israel. After leaving office, Carter continued to serve others. He and his wife, Rosalynn, founded The Carter Center in 1982. This organization focuses on human rights, democracy, and health worldwide. Carter also worked with Habitat for Humanity, helping to build homes for those in need. His dedication to these causes earned him the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. Carter's integrity was ...

The idea of time travel has always fascinated people. While the concept of going back to the past is exciting, scientists believe it is impossible based on our current understanding of physics. On the other hand, seeing into the future or predicting what might happen is not entirely out of reach and has some scientific support. Traveling to the past faces serious problems, mainly because of logical contradictions known as paradoxes. A famous example is the "grandfather paradox," where someone could change history, like preventing their grandfather from meeting their grandmother, which would make their own birth impossible. These types of paradoxes suggest that traveling to the past would break the natural order of cause and effect, which is a key part of how the universe works. Even physicist Stephen Hawking once joked that if traveling to the past were possible, we would already have visitors from the future. But moving forward in time is a different story. Albert Einstein’s...

Artificial intelligence is now capable of detecting heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation, before individuals exhibit any symptoms. By analyzing electrocardiogram (ECG) data, AI algorithms can identify subtle patterns indicative of future cardiac issues, enabling earlier intervention and potentially improving patient outcomes. For instance, a recent study demonstrated that an AI system accurately predicted atrial fibrillation in patients who had not yet experienced any symptoms. This early detection allows healthcare providers to monitor at-risk individuals more closely and implement preventive measures, thereby reducing the likelihood of severe complications. The Telegraph

By Cody Andrus Homelessness in the U.S. has surged by 18% over the past year, reaching a record high of approximately 771,480 individuals without stable housing. This increase is attributed to several factors, including a shortage of affordable housing, natural disasters, and an influx of migrants. The lack of affordable housing remains a significant driver of homelessness. High housing costs have outpaced wage growth, making it increasingly difficult for individuals and families to secure stable accommodations. This issue is particularly acute in urban areas where demand exceeds supply, leading to higher rents and property values. Natural disasters have also contributed to the rise in homelessness. Events such as wildfires and hurricanes have displaced thousands, overwhelming existing shelter capacities and support systems. For instance, the recent wildfire in Maui left many residents without homes, exacerbating the homelessness crisis in the affected regions. The influx of migrants h...

By Cody Andrus The call for reparations for African Americans stems from a history of injustices, including slavery, segregation, and racially motivated violence. These injustices have resulted in significant disparities in wealth, education, and health between Black and White Americans. Advocates argue that reparations are essential to address these enduring inequities and to acknowledge the historical wrongs inflicted upon the Black community. In Tulsa, Oklahoma, the scars of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre remain a poignant reminder of such injustices. During this tragic event, a prosperous Black neighborhood known as Greenwood was decimated by a White mob, leading to the deaths of up to 300 Black residents and the destruction of over 1,200 homes and businesses. Despite the passage of more than a century, survivors and their descendants have yet to receive compensation or justice for the atrocities committed. State Representative Regina Goodwin, a descendant of massacre survivors, has ...

By Cody Andrus Daylight saving time (DST), a relic of early 20th-century policy, is increasingly regarded as unnecessary and disruptive in modern society. Originally implemented to conserve energy during World War I and later during World War II, DST now offers negligible benefits in an era dominated by energy-efficient technologies. Critics argue that the practice creates more problems than it solves, impacting health, safety, and economic productivity. Dr. Beth Malow, a professor of neurology at Vanderbilt University, highlights the adverse health consequences of DST, noting that the abrupt shift in time disrupts circadian rhythms, increasing risks of heart attacks, strokes, and sleep disorders. “The transition is not just an inconvenience; it has tangible effects on our health,” she states. Studies back this claim, showing spikes in traffic accidents and workplace injuries immediately following the springtime clock change. Proponents of DST often cite energy conservation as a key be...

Artificial intelligence could pose an existential threat to humanity within a decade, according to a leading AI researcher. Geoffrey Hinton, often called the "Godfather of AI," warns that rapid advancements in machine learning might outpace human ability to control it, potentially leading to scenarios where AI systems act in ways that conflict with human interests. His concerns echo growing fears within the tech industry about the unchecked development of artificial general intelligence (AGI) and its implications for safety and ethics. Hinton cites examples of AI systems already making autonomous decisions in areas like warfare and large-scale surveillance. The speed at which these technologies evolve raises the risk of unintended consequences, particularly if AGI gains the ability to replicate itself or develop goals misaligned with human welfare. As governments and companies grapple with these possibilities, Hinton emphasizes the need for international cooperation to establ...

The human brain processes thoughts significantly slower than an average internet connection, operating at a speed roughly 5 million times slower. This striking disparity highlights the difference between biological cognition and the rapid data transmission rates of modern technology. Despite this gap, the brain’s unique ability to process abstract concepts, emotions, and creativity distinguishes it from the purely mechanical efficiency of the internet. For instance, while downloading a movie online might take seconds, understanding its narrative, themes, and emotional depth involves intricate cognitive processes that take much longer. Similarly, a search engine can retrieve information in milliseconds, but contextualizing and applying that knowledge to solve complex problems requires deliberate thought. This comparison underscores the trade-off between speed and depth, showcasing the brain's unparalleled capacity for nuanced understanding. Metro

By Cody Andrus An unexpected Christmas tradition has taken root in Japan: families across the country celebrate the holiday by sharing a meal from Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC). This custom, known as "Kentucky for Christmas," has become so ingrained that many Japanese people consider it synonymous with the holiday season. This tradition dates back to 1974, when KFC launched a marketing campaign in Japan promoting fried chicken as a Christmas meal. Takeshi Okawara, the manager of Japan's first KFC restaurant, initiated the idea after overhearing foreign customers lament the absence of turkey for Christmas. He began marketing a "party barrel" as a substitute, which resonated with both expatriates and locals. The campaign's success was immediate, and KFC's Christmas offerings have since evolved into elaborate dinner packages, including chicken, shrimp gratin, and cake.  Today, KFC Japan's Christmas sales account for a significant portion of the company...

Quiz Show (1994) Robert Redford’s Quiz Show delves into the scandals of 1950s television, focusing on the rigged game show Twenty-One . The film explores themes of ethics, privilege, and corporate corruption through the lens of real-life events. Ralph Fiennes stars as Charles Van Doren, a Columbia professor who becomes a reluctant participant in the deception, while John Turturro delivers a standout performance as Herbert Stempel, the disgruntled former champion. Rob Morrow rounds out the cast as Richard Goodwin, the congressional lawyer who investigates the scandal. Worldwide Gross: $24.8M Rotten Tomatoes:  96% My Grade: A+

Kwanzaa, celebrated annually from December 26 to January 1, is a week-long observance that honors African American culture and heritage. Established in 1966 by Maulana Karenga, a professor and activist, Kwanzaa was created to provide African Americans with a celebration rooted in their cultural traditions. Karenga described the holiday as an opportunity for Black people to "celebrate themselves and their history, rather than simply imitate the practice of the dominant society." The name "Kwanzaa" originates from the Swahili phrase "matunda ya kwanza," meaning "first fruits," reflecting its connection to traditional African harvest festivals. Central to the holiday are the Nguzo Saba, or Seven Principles: Unity, Self-Determination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith. These principles guide daily reflections, discussions, and activities during the holiday. Each evening, families light candles o...

South Park Christmas Episodes: A Festive Satirical Journey 1. "Mr. Hankey, the Christmas Poo" (Season 1, Episode 9) Mr. Hankey, a talking piece of feces, spreads holiday cheer while critiquing the commercialization of Christmas. The episode tackles the extremes of political correctness in a small town. 2. "Merry Christmas, Charlie Manson!" (Season 2, Episode 16) The boys visit Cartman’s family for Christmas, leading to an unexpected encounter with Charles Manson. This episode humorously contrasts a traditional family gathering with chaotic twists. 3. "Mr. Hankey’s Christmas Classics" (Season 3, Episode 15) This musical episode showcases South Park characters performing satirical holiday songs. It cleverly parodies classic Christmas specials and cultural traditions. 4. "A Very Crappy Christmas" (Season 4, Episode 17) The boys create an animated holiday special to restore the town’s Christmas spirit. The storyline reflects the creative ...

Gremlins is a darkly comedic horror film that explores the chaos unleashed when adorable creatures transform into mischievous monsters. The story begins when Billy, a young man, receives a mysterious and cute pet Mogwai named Gizmo. He’s given three strict rules: avoid bright light, never get it wet, and don’t feed it after midnight. When these rules are inevitably broken, Gizmo spawns mischievous offspring that quickly morph into destructive gremlins. Set in the picturesque town of Kingston Falls, the gremlins wreak havoc, turning the peaceful holiday season into a wild and dangerous ordeal. The film masterfully blends humor with suspense, creating a story full of clever satire and thrilling moments. Directed by Joe Dante and featuring a mix of practical effects and charming chaos, Gremlins remains a beloved cult classic that balances heartwarming moments with mischievous mayhem.

"The Office" is renowned for its memorable Christmas episodes. Here's the list: 1. "Christmas Party" (Season 2, Episode 10)  The Dunder Mifflin team engages in a Secret Santa gift exchange, which Michael disrupts by introducing a "Yankee Swap," leading to chaos as employees compete for desirable gifts. 2. "A Benihana Christmas" (Season 3, Episodes 10 & 11)  Following a breakup, Michael, accompanied by Andy, Jim, and Dwight, visits a Benihana restaurant to lift his spirits. Meanwhile, Pam and Karen initiate a rival Christmas party, challenging Angela's traditional festivities. 3. "Moroccan Christmas" (Season 5, Episode 11)  Phyllis hosts a Moroccan-themed Christmas party, during which Meredith's excessive drinking leads to a controversial intervention. 4. "Secret Santa" (Season 6, Episode 13)  Jim and Dwight, as co-managers, navigate the complexities of the office Christmas party, including a rivalry...

In recent years, YouTube has experienced significant growth, challenging traditional broadcast television in terms of viewership. According to Nielsen's "The Gauge" report, YouTube accounted for 9.7% of all TV viewership in the U.S. in May 2024, surpassing platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. Meanwhile, traditional broadcast networks like NBC, CBS, and ABC have seen declining audiences. For example, in 2023, NBC's prime-time viewership dropped by 5% compared to the previous year, while CBS and ABC also faced similar declines. This trend reflects a broader shift in consumer behavior, with more viewers choosing streaming services and YouTube as their primary sources of entertainment. Regarding YouTube's view-counting methodology, the platform considers a view valid when a user watches a video for a minimum of 30 seconds. However, viewers do not need to watch the video for 30 seconds straight; the total watch time must be a minimum of 30 seconds...

Christmas has its roots in various ancient pagan festivals, such as the Roman Saturnalia and the Norse Yule. These traditions, which include feasting, gift-giving, and the decoration of trees, have influenced modern Christmas customs. However, this historical background does not make Christmas evil or solely pagan. Instead, it shows how different cultures and beliefs have shaped the holiday over time into a joyful occasion for family, togetherness, and goodwill. The Roman festival of Saturnalia, which was celebrated in December, included practices like exchanging gifts and enjoying festive meals, similar to many Christmas traditions today. Similarly, the Norse Yule celebration involved lighting bonfires and decorating evergreen trees, customs that are still present in Christmas traditions, such as the Yule log. Dr. Jennifer L. Eichstedt, a historian, explains, "These customs were not religious in nature but were expressions of joy and community during the dark winter m...

Netflix's foray into live NFL broadcasting is redefining the sports media landscape, marking another step in the shift from traditional TV to streaming platforms. On December 25, 2024, Netflix aired its first live NFL games, a Christmas Day doubleheader. This development follows Amazon’s groundbreaking move in 2020, when it streamed an exclusive NFL game and secured rights to "Thursday Night Football," a deal worth over $1 billion annually. These milestones signify streaming platforms' growing role in delivering live sports content. Netflix’s venture into live sports aligns with its broader strategy to expand its audience and diversify its offerings. By partnering with the NFL, the platform aims to attract global viewers, leveraging its extensive subscriber base to popularize American football worldwide. The league sees this as a critical step toward international expansion, capitalizing on Netflix’s reach to engage untapped audiences. Challenges remain, h...

The origins of Santa Claus trace back to a blend of historical, cultural, and religious influences that evolved over centuries. The modern Santa Claus character has its roots in St. Nicholas, a 4th-century bishop from Myra, a city in present-day Turkey. Known for his generosity and kindness, St. Nicholas became a legendary figure, especially for his habit of secret gift-giving. His reputation spread across Europe, and he became the patron saint of children, inspiring many of the traditions we associate with Santa today. During the Reformation in Europe, the focus on St. Nicholas shifted, but his legacy endured. In the Netherlands, the character of Sinterklaas emerged, bringing a distinctive blend of folklore and Christian values. Dutch immigrants carried this tradition to America in the 18th century, where Sinterklaas eventually transformed into Santa Claus. By the 19th century, literary works like Clement Clarke Moore’s A Visit from St. Nicholas (commonly known as The Nigh...

Santa Claus is officially recognized as having his hometown in Rovaniemi, Finland, a destination that celebrates the beloved figure year-round. Situated near the Arctic Circle, Rovaniemi offers visitors a chance to meet Santa at Santa Claus Village, an attraction that draws global tourists and highlights the region’s connection to Christmas traditions. Rovaniemi embraces its festive identity with features like Santa’s post office, where letters from around the world are received and answered, and events that bring the magic of Christmas to life regardless of the season. The city’s Arctic Circle location further adds to its allure, offering a unique blend of cultural celebration and natural wonders. ______________  Interesting Facts

By Cody Andrus Temu, an increasingly popular online marketplace, offers a wide range of products at eye-catching prices. Although beneath the allure of affordability lies a troubling reality: the potential link between some of the platform's products and exploitative labor practices. As consumers, it’s vital to be informed about how our shopping habits might inadvertently support unethical systems. The Human Cost of Fast Fashion Many clothing and accessories on Temu are produced in regions known for lax labor laws and poor working conditions. Reports from watchdog organizations have raised concerns that some suppliers use forced or child labor to meet the demands of fast fashion. Purchasing these items may unknowingly perpetuate cycles of exploitation. Electronics and Manufacturing Ethics Electronics sold on Temu often come from suppliers in industries criticized for exploiting workers. Factories in certain regions have been documented employing workers for grueling hou...

Lincoln (2012) Steven Spielberg’s Lincoln  is a beautiful and nearly perfect movie. It offers a riveting portrayal of President Abraham Lincoln’s efforts to pass the 13th Amendment during the final months of his presidency. Set against the backdrop of the Civil War, the film intricately weaves themes of leadership, political strategy, and moral conviction. Daniel Day-Lewis delivers a uniquely masterful performance as Lincoln, earning him an Academy Award for Best Actor. The supporting cast includes Sally Field as Mary Todd Lincoln and Tommy Lee Jones as Thaddeus Stevens, both delivering equally compelling performances. Worldwide Gross: $275M Rotten Tomatoes: 90% My Grade: A+

By Cody Andrus The #MeToo movement was initiated by activist Tarana Burke in 2006 and gained worldwide recognition in 2017 when the hashtag went viral, empowering countless individuals to share their experiences about sexual harassment and assault.  This movement has significantly influenced societal attitudes and created a measurably safer environment for future generations, including my own daughter. And that's a very good thing. No one should ever downplay or forget this movement. One of the profound impacts of #MeToo is the overall increased awareness about sexual harassment and assault. By bringing these issues to the forefront, the movement has challenged the normalization of these really awful behaviors by some men. This awareness has beautifully encouraged victims to speak out. The movement has led to tangible changes in policies and practices aimed at preventing sexual misconduct. Many organizations have implemented stricter anti-harassment policies, established clearer re...

By Cody Andrus I don't have a car. I like the exercise and keeping the planet a bit cleaner. I walk, ride my bike, or Uber when I have to. Along my routes I often talk to a few homeless people, one of whose name is Justin. I was talking to Justin recently, and he said that he can't find work because he has "more felonies than the president." So we can, for the very first time, welcome that into our vernacular. People have asked me if I was "surprised" by Trump's victory, and I've pondered this question. In hindsight , I feel like I was hoping and counting on Trump to lose, and it would be a much needed fresh start for us all. Liberals are scolding Obama for saying that he couldn't "believe [Trump] won," claiming he must be out of touch. I say lay off the guy. He has the right to say it like the rest of us. Again, only in hindsight  was I surprised. Before election night, I talked like everyone else about the tight race which either cand...

By Cody Andrus  FBI Director Christopher Wray’s resignation is a troubling shift for the agency, one that may reshape its independence and effectiveness under Trump’s leadership. Wray, appointed in 2017 following James Comey’s controversial dismissal, led the bureau through immense political turbulence, including fallout from the Mueller investigation. His steady, apolitical approach aimed to restore trust in the FBI. But Trump’s long-standing conflict with the agency leaves its future uncertain. Trump’s tensions with the FBI began with the Mueller probe into Russian election interference, which Trump called a “witch hunt.” His attacks on the agency intensified, branding it as part of the “deep state” working against him. Former FBI Director James Comey has openly criticized Trump’s approach, saying that "a second term of Trump would mean continued assaults on the rule of law” and undermine the FBI’s independence. Andrew McCabe, another former FBI deputy director, similarly cautio...

Ed Wood (1994)   is a fantastic Tim Burton film that tells the story of Edward D. Wood Jr. (Johnny Depp), often considered the "worst director of all time." It is unsurprising that this film was a minimal box office success. The film is a black and white biopic that celebrates Wood's passion for filmmaking despite his lack of talent, and features a memorable performance by Martin Landau as Bela Lugosi. Worldwide Box Office Gross: $5.88M Rotten Tomatoes: 92% Holy Unknown Grade: A+

Quantum computing is emerging as a transformative technology, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to surpass the limitations of traditional digital computing. Unlike classical systems based on binary bits (zeros and ones), quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously through superposition. This capability enables quantum systems to perform highly complex computations, such as simulating molecular structures or solving optimization problems, exponentially faster than conventional computers. However, maintaining quantum coherence—a state essential for error-free operations—remains a significant challenge due to environmental noise and the requirement for extremely low temperatures to sustain the delicate quantum states. Practical advancements in quantum computing are already evident in areas like cryptography and materials science. For instance, quantum algorithms have the potential to crack encryption methods that secure online communication...

The Cowboys (1972)   is a classic John Wayne Western. When his ranch hands abandon him just before a long cattle drive, rancher Will Andersen (John Wayne) is forced to hire a group of inexperienced schoolboys to help him. Along the perilous journey, he teaches them the skills they need to become cowboys and men. The film is known for its portrayal of mentorship, coming-of-age theme, and action-packed sequences. The often overlooked role in this film is Bruce Dern's character. I saw this film as a child and he scared the be-Jesus out of me. Just the idea of someone being that cruel. Terrific actor in my humble opinion. Box Office Gross: $50M Rotten Tomatoes: 77% My Grade: A-

President Biden's approach to pardons and clemency reflects his administration's broader themes of justice reform and equity. While the White House has been slower than past administrations to grant pardons, its focus has shifted to individuals whose cases highlight systemic issues in the justice system. This strategy signals an intent to address racial disparities and mass incarceration while being cautious in the selection of recipients to maintain public trust. A notable example is the clemency granted to Elizabeth Keatinge, who faced a harsh sentence due to outdated sentencing laws. Her pardon underscored the administration's focus on fairness in cases where justice reforms might not have been retroactively applied. Other clemency recipients have included nonviolent offenders and individuals who contributed positively to their communities after serving their time. These decisions reflect an emphasis on addressing injustices without compromising public safety or politica...

The French government faced a collapse following a vote of no confidence triggered by opposition to proposed pension reforms. These changes, particularly raising the retirement age, fueled widespread protests and political backlash. The government’s use of constitutional powers to bypass parliamentary approval further deepened tensions, leading to the no-confidence vote. The loss of parliamentary support highlights divisions within the French political system and dissatisfaction among lawmakers with the leadership's handling of the reforms. Public discontent is evident in extensive strikes and demonstrations across the country, including disruptions to transportation and energy sectors. Workers and unions have expressed frustration over perceived erosion of social protections, viewing the pension reform as a step too far. This political upheaval underscores growing challenges for President Macron, whose administration now faces a fragile legislative environment and mounting public ...

The minimum salary needed for financial success in the United States varies widely across generations, influenced by economic pressures, debt levels, and lifestyle expectations. Millennials, burdened with student debt and higher housing costs, report needing approximately $105,000 annually, while Gen Z sets the bar at $80,000, reflecting lower immediate financial obligations. Meanwhile, Gen X and Baby Boomers, often supporting families or nearing retirement, estimate $100,000 and $130,000, respectively, to achieve financial stability. These figures highlight generational differences in defining success and navigating economic challenges. For Millennials, financial success includes managing significant student loans, rising childcare expenses, and maintaining flexibility for experiences. Gen Z, on the other hand, focuses on building savings and enjoying early career stability with fewer financial commitments. In comparison, Gen X juggles college expenses for their children while prepari...

Mammoths served as a critical food source for ancient North American populations, as recent research has revealed through evidence of their hunting and consumption. The findings indicate that early humans relied on mammoths not only for sustenance but also for tools and shelter derived from their remains, highlighting the species' significance in human survival and adaptation during the Ice Age. Excavations in Colorado uncovered tools and bones suggesting organized mammoth hunts, with evidence of strategic butchery techniques. These discoveries provide a clearer picture of how early humans thrived in challenging environments by utilizing available resources effectively. ScienceDaily

Meta is exploring the use of nuclear energy, specifically small modular reactors (SMRs), to power its data centers as it grapples with the rising energy demands fueled by artificial intelligence (AI). Traditional data centers require around 32 megawatts of power, but those optimized for AI can demand up to 80 megawatts. SMRs, with their compact design and efficiency, offer a potential solution to this challenge. However, significant hurdles remain, including regulatory approvals, high costs, and concerns over nuclear waste and safety. Companies like Oklo, a California-based nuclear firm, are preparing SMR designs for deployment, claiming readiness to meet the growing energy needs of the tech industry. Meanwhile, experts are divided, with some advocating for renewables as a safer, more cost-effective alternative. In the UK and elsewhere, nuclear power's adoption for data centers may face delays, but the push for sustainable energy sources underscores the urgency of meeting the power...

DeepMind's GraphCast system has proven its superiority in weather forecasting, outpacing traditional models by offering faster and more accurate predictions. The AI tool delivers medium-range forecasts, like predicting heatwaves or hurricanes, in under a minute. It uses a fraction of the computing power needed by older systems, making it an efficient alternative for predicting extreme weather events. For instance, GraphCast correctly predicted Hurricane Lee's trajectory nine days ahead of its landfall in Nova Scotia. Its AI system also detects dangerous weather conditions without specific training, enhancing its overall prediction capabilities. Popular Science

Holiday weight gain is an issue for us all. Studies reveal that the pounds accumulated during festive celebrations often linger well into the spring. Research underscores that weight gained over the holidays tends to remain due to slowed metabolism, overindulgence, and reduced physical activity. This pattern can compound over the years, leading to long-term health concerns, including increased risks of obesity and related conditions. Practical strategies to counteract this issue include mindful portion control during festive meals, integrating consistent exercise routines, and prioritizing nutrient-dense foods. For instance, replacing calorie-laden snacks with fresh fruits or vegetables can curb excessive calorie intake. Similarly, maintaining a regular fitness schedule, such as brisk walking or strength training, even during the holidays, helps mitigate weight gain while improving overall health. StudyFinds