Sunlight, Diet, and Skin Protection

Although cancer is the result of many factors, research by Dr. Zane Kime demonstrates the link between toxic dietary chemicals in the skin (especially from the consumption of “bad” fats and oils) and increased susceptibility to skin cancer from overexposure to the sun.

A steady diet of restaurant food (which guarantees constant food chemical exposure) produces poor nutritional status and encourages free radical activity. Free radicals can cause skin to age prematurely, wrinkle, and sunburn, resulting in DNA damage and skin cancer. In contrast, healthy diets containing generous amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and other protective phytochemicals.
Use of a sunscreen may also create a false sense of security when you’re in the sun and actually increase the risk of skin cancer. Many chemicals in sunscreens have been shown to become carcinogenic (cancer-producing) when exposed to sunlight.

Sunscreen ingredients to avoid: Benzophenone, oxybenzone, triethanolamine, homosalate, 4-methyl-benzylidene camphor, octyl-methoxycinnamate, butly-methoxydibenzoylmethane,octyl-dimethyl-PABA . There may also be some danger in products using nano-technology (nano-particles).

Barrier-type sunblocks are safer with the active ingredient being titanium dioxide, zinc oxide and/or PABA. Modern versions of these ingredients have been “micronized” meaning they leave less visible film on the skin. After application, sunblocks tend to leave the skin with a light gray or white tint to it until washed off.

Be sure to read ingredients. With the notable exceptions of Aubrey Organics and Lavera, most companies carry toxic sunscreens (even if they call them “natural”) within their product line. To check the safety of your sunscreen (and other skin and beauty products) see the research by Environmental Working Group at: http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/splash.php?URI=%2Findex.php

Sources: Zane Kime, M.D., Sunlight, World Health Publications, 1980; Megan Shields, M.D., Safe Sunscreens for Youthful Skin and David Steinman, Trouble Under the Sun: How Safe is Your Sunscreen? (Both articles posted at http://www.aubrey-organics.com/about/articles.cfm)

The Ultimate Sports Drink

Despite the advertising hype, good old H2O is actually the best "sports drink" available. While some sports drinks can raise blood sugar and recharge electrolytes, many also contain fat and calories, artificial colorants and flavorings, and caffeine and other stimulants as well. Water is your best bet for avoiding dehydration and improving your performance. There's no need for moderate exercisers who eat a balanced diet to replenish potassium and sodium during a workout - leave that to the endurance athletes. To avoid dehydration, however, you should drink plenty of water before, during and after working out, especially if you live in a hot, dry climate.