Lauren Vinopal

Lauren Vinopal is a freelance journalist who writes about health and science. Have a weird science question? Lauren has your answer. She also specializes in men’s health, child development, sleep, pregnancy, relationships, psychology, mental health, and much more. Lauren was a full-time Health & Science writer for Fatherly from 2016 to 2019.

Lauren is currently a staff writer for MEL Magazine. She also writes for publications such as MTV News, Vice, GQ, and more. Lauren has a Bachelor’s in communications and journalism from DePaul University. A stand-up comedian to boot, she also hosts the Mid Riff Comedy Show in Brooklyn. You can follow Lauren on Twitter at @LaurenVino.

Strange Facts

35 Strange And Weird Facts About The Human Body

Whether you want to quell your kid’s curiosity, make it weird at a dinner party, or learn something about yourself, we have you covered.

Runner's High

Is Weed What’s Missing From Your Workout Routine?

Cannabis and exercise may not seem like the most likely duo, but emerging research suggests it might be the secret ingredient for making workouts more fun.

Tech

Screen Time Literally Changes Young Kids' Brains

The research is eye-opening. But it doesn't mean parents need to freak out.

Taking Chances

How Big A Career Risk Is Too Big When You Have Kids?

Fatherhood can make men less willing to take risks, for the safety of their families. But you still have to be open to taking chances.

Hug It Out

Why You Should Hug Your Kid For At Least 20 Seconds

The benefits are seriously worth it.

Parenting

This Expert Mindfulness Hack Helps Parents Stay Level-Headed

Envisioning the future might be a better strategy for raising kids, new research suggests.

Grief

Losing A Dad Hurts Boys On A Different Level. Here's How To Help Them Cope.

The death of a parent can be incredibly painful at any age, but when boys lose their dads, they may be more vulnerable to a variety of problems later in life.

Flexibility

I Tried Hyperbolic Stretching And It Delivered — With One Big Caveat

You could get closer to the splits in this four-week program that promises to increase flexibility. Or you could get a strained groin and a bunch of spam.

Mental Health

The Key To Mental Health Could Come Down To 3 Basic Needs

A popular premise in psychology suggests mental health may be less complicated than it seems.

Dad Bod

Could Cardio On An Empty Stomach Aid Weight Loss, Or Is It An Empty Promise?

Some evidence suggests fasted workouts promote faster weight loss, but many experts aren’t convinced. I tried it firsthand to settle the score.

Weed

This Simple Plan Would Make Marijuana Much Less Dangerous For Kids

The wide availability of weed gummies and candy have led to a spike in child cannabis poisonings. A professor of clinical pharmacology offers a way forward.

Bitter News

Drinking IPAs Could Cause Brewer’s Droop And Erectile Dysfunction

A beer belly might not be the only thing in your future; drinking beer can cause man boobs too, experts say.

Remember To Breathe

15 Simple Habits That Can Seriously Improve Your Mental Health

Find your inner peace with these small, simple steps.

Health

Why Does My Face Look Fat? A Plastic Surgeon Explains

Chubby cheeks aren't just for babies.

Relationships

7 Scientific Reasons Women Love Divorced Men

Everyone has baggage. At least you checked yours.

Attraction

5 Scientific Reasons Why Women Love Fat Guys

Why are larger men lusted after? Here's what science says.

Attraction

5 Scientific Reasons Women Like Skinny Guys

You don’t need big muscles to be attractive.

Relationships

5 Signs You May Be A Codependent Man

Experts share several warning signs for men who may be too committed to their relationships.

Birth Month

August Babies Have These 5 Scientific Advantages

August babies may face academic challenges, studies suggest, but they also have a handful of interesting advantages.

Dope Dads

A Parent’s Guide To Getting High

Curious about cannabis? Wondering about weed? You’re not alone. Plenty of parents take pleasure in pot — and are the happier for it. Here’s their secret.