Q&A: Summer Health


Why do some people say sunscreen actually leads to more cancer?
Physiology answers this.  The pigment responsible for tanning, melanin, has other important roles: it absorbs the UV rays and neutralizes bad free-radicals when skin is invaded by bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and from exposure to light. When you use a sunscreen, the melanin producing cells are not stimulated, which actually interferes with the skin’s natural ability to protect against the harmful effects of ultraviolet light. Without melanin, the UVA’s are allowed to penetrate deeper into vessels, nerves, and tissues, which can lead to harmful mutations that can possibly lead to cancer.

How does your body naturally protect itself from harmful affects of the sun?
Your body uses endogenous antioxidants to protect your skin cells from the oxidative damage to your skin. Your body’s antioxidants mainly come from the vitamins and minerals from colorful fruits and vegetables containing Vitamin C, E, zinc, selenium, and anthocyanins. Antioxidants repair and reduce the amount of oxidative damage from free-radicals like reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by UV rays. By increasing the amount of antioxidants in your body during the sunny months, you will protect your skin cells from pre-mature aging and cancer. 

What is the hype about coconut water and why is it so good for rehydration? 
Coconut water is an almost perfect electrolyte drink. A cup of coconut water contains about 10 grams of natural sugars contributing up to 45 calories.  It also contains 600-680 mg of potassium, 40-60 mg of sodium and up to 10% of your daily calcium and magnesium needs. For an “Easy Rehydration formula” mix together 20 oz filtered water, 8 oz coconut water, 4 oz fruit juice (no sugar added, no artificial colors, not from concentrate), and 1/8 tsp sea salt. This is a much healthier and more refreshing sports drink for pennies and without the high fructose corn syrup and glow-in-the-dark food dyes.


Answers provided by Dr. Sonja Fung of Live Well Clinic. Find us at www.livewellclinic.org.  If you have a health related question you would like addressed in a future Q & A please email info@livewellclinic.org.

Live Happy, Live Well.
www.livewellclinic.org.  78900 Avenue 47 Suite 102 La Quinta, CA. 760-771-5970


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