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Alia is an Atlanta-based freelance writer who has contributed content to HowStuffWorks for going on a decade now, with a specialty in health writing. She’s also been published by TLC, Animal Planet, and a number of corporate clients. She holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Georgia (Go Dawgs!), and might someday get around to setting up a professional website. Until then, check her out on LinkedIn.
She and her husband are proud parents to three handsome, too-smart-for-their-own-good boys. Alia is a passably not terrible tennis player, lover of all things dance and music, brownie-obsessed, avid reader and off-key car singer. Her two favorite types of people are those who have a healthy sense of humor and those who actually read articles in their entirety before posting comments.
Recent Contributions
Adopting a Pet Can Be Hard; We Have 8 Tips to Make It Easier
Although it may seem like there is no shortage of pets available for adoption, competition can be fierce for the more desired ones. Here are some ways to increase your chances of getting the pet you really want.
What Are Silverfish and How Do You Get Rid of Them?
You may have spotted these insects in your home. But are they bad to have around? And how do you get rid of them?
Foxglove: The Beautiful Bloom That's Good (and Bad) for Your Heart
This pretty flower has been known for centuries to have chemicals that can regulate your heartbeat but also poison you.
Would You Undergo Surgery Just to Be Taller?
Surgery to increase your height for cosmetic reasons is becoming more popular. But what's involved and should people do it?
How to Talk to Your Friends About Race and Remain Friends
Why do conversations about race get so awkward? And what are some ways to keep them friendly and productive?
The Wild Wild West Quiz
The Wild West is the stuff of legends, lore and awesome John Wayne movies. How much do you know about the days of saloons and standoffs?
How to Make Oobleck
Taking its name from a Dr. Seuss book, oobleck is a sticky green substance that changes from a liquid to a solid when pressure is applied — and is a great way to learn about non-Newtonian liquids.
Sacrebleu! It's the Foreign Phrases Quiz
A number of foreign phrases have permeated the English language. How fluent are you in these popular turns of phrase? Take our quiz to find out!
Why Professional Bakers Never Measure With Cups, Only Scales
While many home bakers, including most Americans, measure out flour and other ingredients with a cup, experts say you should ditch that cup for a scale. Here's why.
The Surprising Reason Why Vanilla Is So Expensive
Vanilla is probably the most popular flavoring out there, but most of what we consume is the imitation variety as the real extract is pricey. What accounts for the high cost? And is it worth it?
Have Fun With Our Animal Crossing Quiz
Everyone's heard of Mario, but Nintendo is nearly as well known for the ultra-popular Animal Crossing series. How much do you know about this beloved social simulation game?
Why You'll Go Bananas for Mangosteens
Sometimes referred as the 'queen of fruit,' the mangosteen has a soft white interior, a mild taste and is notoriously difficult to find in the U.S. Here's why.
5 Tips on Sneaker Rehab From a Sneaker Restoration Expert
Those worn but loved sneaks can look almost new with a few cleaning tips we got from a pro.
Aphantasia: When Your Mind's Eye Is Blank
Although the inability to picture things in your head would seem to be a hinderance, some experts say it's definitely not a creativity killer and actually can have some advantages.
Quiz: Is This Spot North or South of the Equator?
You probably know that the equator is the imaginary line that divides Earth into the Northern and Southern hemispheres. But do you know on which side of 0 degrees latitude these famous landmarks fall?
Do the Kings, Queens and Jacks on Playing Cards Represent Real People?
Is that Henry VIII on the king of spades? If not, then who is it?
7 Reasons a Cuttlefish May Be Smarter Than You
This master of camouflage can count, gender-bend and also use a hidden weapon to outsmart its enemies.
Should You Take a Conch Shell From the Beach?
The queen conch, a symbol of the Bahamas, is prized all over the world for its meat and its beautiful shell. But too much love has led to a serious decline in its population.
All Hail the Kings and Queens Quiz
Whether you love 'em or think they're irrelevant, there's no denying that commoners are and always have been fascinated by royalty. How well do you know these historic members of society's upper echelon?
How Telemedicine Can Help You During COVID-19 and Beyond
Since the COVID-19 outbreak has people self-quarantining as much as possible, telemedicine has become a big alternative. But if you've never done it before, what can you expect?
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