Thursday, 4 April 2024

Should you use a water flosser? Dentists explain the benefits.

These 'Disney Adults' are widely mocked ... but they're happy.

April 4, 2024 VIEW IN BROWSER

THIS IS TODAY

Rescue efforts continue after the Taiwan earthquake leaves more than a thousand injured and hundreds trapped. Plus, "Disney Adults" explain how the theme parks have made them better parents and experts break down whether water flossers are a better option than dental floss.

The Latest

More than 1,000 people injured, hundreds remain trapped after Taiwan earthquake.

Rescue and recovery efforts continue after Wednesday's 7.4 magnitude earthquake in Taiwan that left at least 10 people dead. As of Thursday afternoon local time, there were 1,067 people injured, while 660 people were trapped and 38 were missing, according to the Central Disaster Response Center. Officials say most of the trapped people were located at a hotel and activity center in eastern Taiwan's Taroko National Park that has been difficult to get to because of road damage from the biggest earthquake to hit the island in 25 years. Those people have been confirmed to be safe. Here's the latest.

🐭 These 'Disney Adults' say it makes them better parents. Who are we to judge?

They've taken second jobs, moved their families, donated plasma and forfeited luxuries — all to afford annual passes and memorabilia from Disney World. These Disney-obsessed adults endure ridicule online, but we spoke to several who say it's made them better parents and helped replicate their own happy childhoods. "Disney is definitely an escape," one parent told TODAY.com. "I enjoy the magic." See why Disney means so much to them.

😁 Water flosser vs. dental floss: Dentists reveal which one is better.

Water flossing and dental floss can both keep your gums clean, but which one has better overall benefits? We spoke to dental experts who recommended trying a water flosser — a handheld device that sprays streams of water across and between the teeth — if it feels easier to use than dental floss. We also have tips on how to choose the right water flosser for you and how to use it correctly.

🍔 Shopping Diaries: Guy Fieri on the origins of Flavortown, his hair routine and the insoles he's used for over a decade.

Food Network star Guy Fieri took our Shop TODAY team on a trip to Flavortown, where he shared his favorite condiment for burgers and fries in the latest edition of Shopping Diaries. He also revealed the finishing wax he uses to keep his famous hair in place, and the comfortable insoles that fortify him for a long day in the kitchen. See them all here.

Start TODAY

Achieve your life and health goals with easy tips.

Ashley Vielma, 35, struggled with her weight since she was a child and then hit 205 pounds when she began working a sedentary job as an adult. Knee surgery led to more weight gain, and a physical determined she was prediabetic. That wakeup call led her to lose 70 pounds and improve her blood-sugar levels. She shared her top weight-loss tip, plus how a podcast, a return to Pilates and a focus on mindful eating helped her reach her goals. See her advice here.

What's for dinner?

Allow us to do the meal-planning for you

Sticking with the theme of light and healthy meals to kick off spring, chef and television personality Leah Cohen stopped by the TODAY kitchen to share her Asian-inspired green curry salmon with Swiss chard and peas. The Thai green curry pairs perfectly with the salmon, and a dollop of coconut cream on top cools down the spice of the curry. Get the recipe.

Daily Delight

A little pick-me-up before you go.

Jenn Tran will become the first Asian American lead in "Bachelor" franchise history during the upcoming 21st season of "The Bachelorette," which she hopes to use as a chance to help others and positively portray her heritage. "To be able to inspire a generation of people to be proud of their culture is something I'm so grateful for," she wrote on Instagram. Fans are equally thrilled with the casting. "I'm just excited to see how she represents us and our community," college student Lana Tso tells us. Read more here.