Glow Smart!

Summer’s finally here! While you’re out soaking up the summer rays, be sure to protect skin and keep hair hydrated.  All skin types can burn. Even darker skin tones can become scorched and suffer permanent damage.

Use the highest SPF available. SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor and is a rating given to sun creams. It is the ratio of UV radiation dose required to produce recognizable redness/burning on skin that has been protected vs. skin that has not been protected by and SPF cream.  If you normally burn in the sun after 15 minutes with no sun protection, a lotion with an SPF of 4 allows you to stay out for 4 times as long (one hour) without burning.

Eater Beware!

Some nutrition experts have found that many food labels containing the words “fat free” or “lower carbs” may actually contain more calories than the real deal. Here are a few simple tips the next time you go to the supermarket:

·         If the item says “fat free”, check out the total sugar content. Chances are total grams of sugar are more than or equal to the regular brand.

·         Enhanced vitamin waters are loaded with fructose. That means you’re getting more sugar in your water than….well water. Can’t lose any weight here. Stick to plain ole’ water!

·         Dining out and ordering a turkey burger? Many turkey burgers are made from dark meat and sometimes contain ground turkey skin. Some are even enhanced with mayonnaise and cheese as a filler. You’re better off with a grilled chicken breast. 

·         **We love the refreshing taste of Red Mango frozen yogurt. The signs in the store boast that a small cup of the original flavor is only 100 calories.  The fine print notes however, that it’s 100 calories per ½ cup. A small portion of the delectable dessert is at least 1 ½ cups. Hmmm….

 Studies show that people always feel better about themselves when they do something nice for someone else. We’re all kind to those around us, but how about offering 1 simple act of kindness for a total stranger today. Or reconnect with a long, lost friend.

·         Call 4 people today from your address book that you haven’t spoken to in awhile. Tell them that they’ve been on your mind. Trust us…you’ll make their day.  

·         Offer to carry packages for a senior citizen at the shopping center or give them a ride if you see that they’re struggling

·         Send a hand-written note to someone you’ve been thinking about. Skip the email and make it personal. They’ll love you for it.

·         Check your local/community newspaper for events that you can volunteer for. Just 1 day a month could make all the difference in the world to someone in need. Plus…you’ll feel like a million bucks!