Health Benefits of Carrots

Carrots, Bugs Bunny's favorite food, it has been considered to improve our vision. I still remember what my grandmother always tell us when we where kids, that if we want to have a good vision or we don't want to wear reading glasses early is that we should always it some carrots for better vision. Carrot is rich in beta-carotene. A substances in the body will be converted into vitamin A, vitamin, which is very important for the function of our Retina. Carrots are an excellent source of antioxidant compounds, and the richest vegetable source of the pro-vitamin A carotene's. Carrots' antioxidant compounds help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer and also promote good vision, especially night vision. However, vitamin A will not treat blindness and vision can only improve if the vision problems are not caused by lack of vitamin A. In addition to a role as pro-vitamin A, beta-carotene as protective against cancer because it is an antioxidant.

Antioxidant is a compound that can neutralize free radicals: unstable molecule produced by various chemical processes normal body, or by solar radiation, cigarette smoke, and the influence of other environment.

In the body, the majority originating from free radical complex chemical process used when the oxygen in the cells. Radical free-radical chemicals that are not complete it can "steal" of particles from the molecule-molecule to another. He then produces a compound-rocker compound and create a chain reaction that can damage cells, by making fundamental changes in the genetic material and important parts of other cells.

Simply, the way of free radical damage to cells with the same oxygen causes paper changed color yellow or become rancid butter. In addition to the beta-carotene, carrots also contain antioxidants fenolat acid.

Studies have been conducted widely in humans show that the pattern of food that included carrot, despite the small amount, per day can reduce the incidence lung cancer around 50 percent.

1. Lower cholesterol

Can also help lower blood cholesterol. Research shows, the consumption of fresh carrot / raw 200 grams a day for three weeks can reduce blood cholesterol rate of 11 percent.
It means one percent decrease in cholesterol synonymous with heart disease risk reduction of approximately two percent. So, strictly with the carrot for three weeks, the risk of heart disease is estimated to gain can be reduced 22 percent.

2. Lower risk of stroke

Addition to reducing the risk of heart disease, carrots can reduce the risk of suffering stroke. Eating carrots, at least five times each week can reduce the risk of stroke affected 68 percent of the carrot one time, or less than, a month.

That large-scale research findings of Harvard University, U.S., conducted on almost 90,000 female nurses for eight years.

Harvard previous study found that consume extra beta-carotene contained in carrots around one and a half days each stem can reduce the likelihood of stroke by 40 percent. This decline is clearly on those who consume beta-carotene 15-20 mg per day versus those who consume beta-carotene only 6 mg.

When analyzing the blood of 80 patients within 24 hours after stroke affected, the researchers found, patients with stroke in the amount of vitamin A on average, including beta-carotene, have more opportunities to survive (survival), have fewer neurological damage, and recover the same once.

3. Cooked more absorbed

The rate of beta-carotene contained in carrots (754 ) almost two times more than the content of beta-carotene in the kangkungs (380 ) and three times more than the content of beta-carotene in the leaves caisins (286 ).
Beta-carotene found in carrots is higher than that found in spinach (409 ). The more orange color of carrots, the higher the rate of beta-carotene carrot.

To maintain vitamin astringent-carrot maximum, rubbing / brush it carrot, peeled do not, unless the skin is very hard or have been damaged / disability.

4. Choosing carrot

carrots that look fresh, firm, smooth and shapely with interesting color. Avoid carrots that cracked, wrinkled / wrinkled, or rubbery. At the time of purchase carrot that the top of the green still cling, make sure the green looks fresh.

Keep the carrot in the refrigerator. Should release the green / stored before the first cut.

5. Carrot juice benefits

Carrot juice is also good to drink pregnant women.

Beta Carotene content of the fruit is also anti-oxidants, a good candidate for mother and baby. In addition, anti-oxidants also help slow the aging process. Other fruits rich anti-oxidants are the berry. Both these fruits can be blended together or separately.

Tips Benefits Carrot juice

- Carrot juice as a useful anti-inflammatory and invigorate the skin.

- Carrot juice can help prevent cancer

- Carrot juice to help take the spots in the skin

- Carrot juice consumed each day able to overcome the rough skin pigmentation .

Maybe for some people, carrot juice feel uncomfortable, but good for our health and harmless to try.

Benefits of Yoga for The Body and Mind

For people with lower back pain, stertching is very important. Lets take the hamstring muscles (in the back of the thigh) for example, stretching this helps expand the motion in the pelvis, which decreases stress across the lower back. This also does not include the fact that Yoga stretching increases the blood flow, which allow nutrients to flow in toxins to flush out, and nourishment of the muscles and soft tissues in the lower back. Breathing is another part of Yoga poses, Deep free and rhythm breaths through the nose will relax the body and encourage strong circulation.

Aside from physical benefits that Yoga exercises can do to address your back problem, there are also several theories that suggest, that a mental state of mind may affect those suffering from pain.

Here are the benefits of Yoga To our Body and Mind

Muscle Strength = When you hold positions in yoga, you may feel a little discomfort at first. This is because you are using a specific group of muscles at the back, as well as the abdominal area, that will in time become stronger. Back and abdominal muscles are important parts of the muscular network of the spine which help the body maintain proper upright posture and movement. When these muscles are well conditioned back pain can be greatly reduce or avoided.

Total Relaxation = Stretching and relaxation found in Yoga exercises reduce tension in stress-carrying muscles, Yoga requires one to hold gentle posses from 10 to 60 seconds and within the pose, certain muscles flex, while others stretch. The series of flexing and stretching encourages relaxation and flexibility in muscles and joints.

Improved posture, balance and body alignment = The point of performing yoga pose is to train the body to be healthy and supple, With practice and concentration, you will experience improve posture, and an increased sense of balance - head, shoulders and pelvis in proper alignment. Proper body alignment and good posture, which helps maintain the natural curvature of the spine helps reduce lower back pains.

Changed "perception" of Pain = Many believe that negative psychological and emotional factors tend to magnify a problem that already exists. Therefore, reducing the "perception" of th pain through meditation can reduce the overall feeling of back pain.

Riding the body of pain-causing stress and negative emotions = Many Yoga and practitioners believe that some types of back pain are purely caused by the stresses of daily work and worries. In theory, Yoga helps people concentrate their energy on breathing and maintaining posture. The methodical breathing increases oxygen flow to the brain and sets a rhythm within the body and mind. This action coupled with the posses and sometimes meditation is said to dissipate stress and anxiety, therefore relieving back pain caused by psychological and emotional factors.

RP first Influenza A (H1N1) Case

No Country is safe against N1H1 Too bad our country is now on the list of N1H1 case because the Department of Health is officially announcing this evening the first confirmed case of Influenza A (H1N1) in the Philippines.

A The 10-year-old arrived in the Philippines with her parents on May 18, Monday, from the United States and Canada. A throat specimen was collected, and was tested at the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine (RITM) on May 20, Wednesday, after she developed fever, sore throat and cough.

Today, RITM confirmed that the specimen tested positive for the novel Influenza A (H1N1) on PCR using the primers sent by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

She was immediately started on an antiviral, Oseltamivir, and given supportive care. At this time, the patient is continuously being monitored. She no longer has fever or cough, but still has sore throat.

The DOH would like to emphasize that there is no community level outbreak in the country and measures are being done by the government to prevent transmission, starting with the quarantine of household close contacts.

The family of the patient has been informed and advised about the situation. We would like to thank them for their cooperation and willingness to comply with the recommendations of the DOH. They were advised to observe self-monitoring, home quarantine, social distancing, proper hygiene and respiratory etiquette procedures.

DOH appeal to our media partners and the rest of the nation to respect the privacy and anonymity of the patient and her family. Rest assured that any information vital to protect public health and safety will be appropriately shared to those concerned.

The DOH also stresses that the discovery of this first case of Influenza A(H1N1) in the Philippines is something we have been preparing for and is a result of the collective efforts of both public and private sectors as well as the effective surveillance system which we have put in place.

The DOH has already notified the International Health Regulations (IHR) and will submit its official report in 24 hours.

Influenza A (H1N1) is currently affecting 41 other countries with 11,034 cases and 85 deaths. Thus far, the behavior of the virus is to cause generally mild illness and low mortality (<1%)>

This development only shows the vulnerability of all countries to the threat of Influenza A (H1N1) which indicates that no nation and no government should be complacent. Thus, we continue to strengthen our systems for surveillance, early detection and management and effective response. We are also closely coordinating with the WHO, other agencies of government and the private sector to effectively combat the virus.

THe DOH's stockpiles of Oseltamivir is currently sufficient at 1 million capsules and have been distributed in regional hubs all over the country. DOH would like to remind the public that Oseltamivir may only be dispensed and taken upon the advice of your doctor. Irrational use can result in drug resistance that causes the drug to become ineffective in the future.

DOH reiterate to the public that government is on top of the situation and everyone is advised to be vigilant. If you have arrived from an affected country and develop flu-like symptoms (or TRANGKASO) such as fever, sore throat and cough, immediately consult a medical professional or call the DOH Hotline at (02) 711-1001 or 711-1002.

This situation is evolving globally. DOH will give regular updates to the media and the public as information becomes available.

To know more about Influenza A(H1N1), you may go to the DOH Influenza A(H1N1) Website at www.doh.gov.ph/h1n1

Quick Tip: Joint Pain Home Remedies

By far the majority of folks here and overseas are plagued with joint aches and pains at some time or another in their life. Any joint in the body can be involved - the glenohumeral or the radial collateral or the calcaneocuboid or the talocalcaneonavicular or the ulnar collateral or the meta carpophalangeal. Joint pain may happen when a person has had a fracture or sprain, or from repetitive strain. There are also countless syndromes and diseases that may cause pain throughout the joints of the body. Here, you will learn about some of the most common types of joint discomfort, the symptoms that are associated with joint problems, and furthermore some helpful home remedies for joint pain.

Types of Joint Pain

As we have already noted, there are many different contributing factors when it comes to joint pain. One of the most common situations is an injury that has been sustained. Men or Women who participate in sports (Short track motor racing or Curling or Road hockey) and work that is highly physical may get these types of injuries. Additionally, if an individual get a sprain or a strain in the area of the joints, excessive pain may be experienced. An infection may cause pain and aching . Common infections include that of the common cold, various viruses, and even the flu.

There are many medical conditions that can cause painful joints. Arthritic conditions like Dupuytren's contracture, Fibromyalgia, and even Scheuermann's osteochondritis can be an underlying cause.

Symptoms of Joint Pain

The symptoms of joint pain have a simple explanation. Pain in these areas around the body may result from swelling in and around the joint. The joints may be difficult to move appropriately due to the fact that they become stiff from the inflammation that is occurring in and around them. When you touch a painful joint, you may notice that the skin is warm to the touch. You may also notice that the coloring is red. This is often a direct result of the inflammation and/or infection that is occurring in the joint area.

Remedies for Joint Pain

Many times, medical care that is required to diagnose and treat joint pain can be expensive. This is the reason lots of people take the time to use home remedies for joint pain. These remedies have been found to be inexpensive and effective means of helping joint pain. The following are some remedies that you can do in order to finally get the relief that you have been hoping for:

1. One of the first and most effective means, to treating joint pain at home is by remembering to move as much as you can. You can walk, stretch, swim, or dance � the choice is yours! If you fail to remain active, the joints will only result in more pain.

2. You should have a cold pack and a hot pack available at all times. When applying them to the area that is painful, you should allow each to sit in intervals of approximately fifteen minutes a piece. This will help to reduce the amount of inflammation that is present in the joints.

3. Massage has proven to provide effective relief for those that experience pain. It helps in the area of circulating the blood and soothing the senses.

4. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that can relieve joint pain. When choosing one, it is important to select one that acts as an anti-inflammatory.

Conclusion

When dealing with joint pain whether it is in the interclavicular or palmar carpo metacarpal or volar radioulnar joint, it is important that you nail down the cause of the pain. In so doing, you can select an appropriate home remedy for joint pain. You can select from many types of relief the use of heat and cold, massage, remaining active and even over-the-counter anti-inflammatory. There is no need to experience unbearable pain without relief simply use the correct home remedy for joint pain relief, and return to the pain-free life that you deserve!

Philippines is still Influenza A (H1N1) free, Thank God!!!

As of date, The DOH (Department of Health) have not found any Filipino resident or any visitor to the Philippines to be influenza A (H1N1)-positive. From the among the 49 cases that had been reported by government and private hospitals to have undergone clinical observation in their facilities and whose laboratory results have been processed by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine, NONE have tested positive for the influenza A (H1N1) virus. Thus, all these 49 cases have been declared definitely "not A (H1N1)" cases and have been discharged.

From May 1, 2009 until today, 49 total cases under observation or CUOs at various government and private hospital facilities had been reported to the RITM for laboratory confirmation. This is an increase of 3 from yesterday’s total of 46 CUOs. All laboratory results are in and, we reiterate that all are negative and all CUOs had been discharged clear of the new influenza virus. This indicates that it is highly probable that the influenza A (H1N1) virus or its carrier has, so far, not been able to penetrate our public health cordon.

However, on the global front, WHO (World Health Organization) reports that every day more countries are finding laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza A (H1N1). It has been found in North and South American, European and Asian countries, and in Australia and New Zealand as well. There are now 5,728 cases and 61 deaths reported and confirmed by the WHO from 33 countries. This is the reason why we continue to be vigilant and to institute measures to tighten our defenses at the various ports of entry at Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao.

Systematically and without causing undue alarm and panic, The National Quarantine Officers, in coordination with airline and shipping authorities, have patiently required travelers coming from influenza-affected countries to be screened for signs and symptoms of the virus. However, because of the variable onset of signs and symptoms of the new influenza, DOH cannot presume to have a completely foolproof screening system.

Thus today, DOH are issuing an "Interim Guideline for Public Gatherings in Response to the Influenza A (H1N1) Threat." This Guideline will apply to all persons who have commitments or have choices to make with regards attending, gracing or hosting public gatherings. The Guideline is patterned after the recommendations of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, USA, though, it is tailor-fit to the risks we have locally at present. This means that as the disease pattern and risks change and as information is updated, the DOH may have to issue newer guides to the public for the prevention and containment of influenza A (H1N1).

This Guideline is focused on precautionary measures all of us should employ when organizing or when attending public gatherings where we are likely to be exposed to probable positive cases of influenza A (H1N1) virus—we would like to emphasize here that these precautionary measures are applicable now while we have yet no evidence of any positive case of influenza A (H1N1) infection among our incoming travelers nor of community transmission.

The guideline refers to public gathering as defined by CDC:

"an assembly or grouping of many people in one place…and can include commencement exercises, church services, sporting events, concerts, social and cultural celebrations, weddings, conferences and other similar activities attended by relatively large groups of people." The common denominator of all these is any situation in which crowding is likely to occur. While we advocate for social distancing as the principal measure to protect one’s self while among or when coming from a community with known positive cases, we are recommending this set of precautionary measures for public gatherings in general, while we have YET no public health indication to ban public gatherings as in some parts of Mexico.

The principles used for this Guideline has been applied to our People’s Hero, Manny Pacquiao … is now being applied to American Idol, David Cook and American Idol runner-up, David Archuleta, and will be therefore be applied to other public gatherings of such nature.

In brief, DOH are recommending that event organizers and event hosts to: (1) provide information to guests, participants or audience about what to do in case they have flu-like illness, (2) make available adequate hand washing facilities with disinfectant soap or sanitizers and (3) suggest other options for participation such as video-conferencing, wider open spaces, etc.

All persons, especially those in public places, are recommended to practice healthful respiratory- or lung-clearing practices and regular hand washing. Those who have known health problems that make them susceptible to infections are advised to keep away from crowds. Health care workers who are tasked to handle emergencies in public gatherings are advised to have personal protective N95 masks ready for persons who may develop the signs and symptoms of influenza A (H1N1).

The DOH would like to thank the press and media practitioners and the general public for their interest and understanding of the public health situation. I also thank especially those who have cooperated with us in this daunting and necessary work of preventing the entry of influenza A (H1N1) to the country…those who have been working 24 hours in our ports of entry and referral hospitals and those who have allowed to be subjected to hospital-based or home quarantine.

Today May 15, the Department of Health reported five new cases under observation. Four were negative for influenza A (H1N1), while the laboratory result for one case is still pending. The total number of cases that the DOH monitored since May 1 to May 14 is now 54. Forty-five of these cases were reported from the National Capital Region, six from Region VII, and one case each for Regions IV-A, V and X.

The reported cases had history of travel to the following countries with confirmed influenza A (H1N1) cases: Australia, Canada, China (Mainland), Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States of America.

As of May 14, the World Health Organization has reported no new countries with confirmed cases of A (H1N1). The total number of confirmed influenza A (H1N1) cases reported in 33 countries is now 6,497. This is a 13% increase compared to the number reported in the previous day (5,728). The most number of new confirmed cases (387/769) was from Mexico. No new deaths were reported; the total number of deaths is still 61.

While the Philippines is still free from Influenza A (H1N1), the DOH reiterates that they will continue to intensify its surveillance in ports, airports and the community so that cases of influenza A (H1N1) are detected early and appropriate control measures implemented immediately.

Interim Guidelines No. 4

On Public Gatherings in Response to Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Threat

Given the current information on the status of influenza A (H1N1) in the country, the Department of Health (DOH) issues the following interim guidelines on "Public Gatherings in Response to Influenza A (H1N1) Virus Threat" for the guidance of event organizers, local officials, health care providers and the general public.

Definition

Public Gathering refers to a congregation or grouping of several people in an area or activity. Examples of a gathering are social and cultural celebrations like fiestas, conferences, concerts, sports event, and other comparable activities, both indoor and outdoor, where crowding of people may occur.

Public gatherings are usually festive and personal contact like handshaking, hugging and kissing likely occur, thereby increasing the risk for spread of Influenza A (H1N1) virus.

For All Persons Attending a Public Gathering:

Practice proper cough manners and cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing and wash hands after doing so

• Maintain personal hygiene, especially regular hand washing with soap and water or sanitizer

• At the first signs and symptoms of flu-like illness, defer from attending a public gathering and seek medical consultation

• Persons who are at high risk of complications from Influenza A (H1N1) infection should avoid exposure to this virus by reconsidering attendance to public gatherings. Persons at high risk are:

• Persons with certain chronic medical conditions and the immuno-compromised

• Children less than 5 years and persons 60 or older

• Pregnant women

For Event Organizers or Hosts:

• Determine the time required to achieve the purpose of the public gathering and avoid extending the period of time that people are gathered as crowds

• Provide alternative options and venues for participation. In general, open spaces are preferable over indoor venues.

• Make adequately available at the event the following basic facilities and services:

• Hand washing facilities with soap and running water or hand sanitizers

• Garbage bins for proper disposal of tissues, disposable cups and other items

• On-site medical assessment team that is adequately equipped to screen persons developing flu-like illness

• Ensure that frequently touched objects and surfaces had been adequately disinfected, e.g. door knobs, tabletops, chairs, toilets, etc.

• Deliver key educational messages about measures attendees can take to help reduce the spread of the Influenza A (H1N1) virus infection

For the Local Officials, Health Officers and other officials with jurisdiction over the Public Gathering:

• Reinforce guidelines on public gatherings for event organizers and hosts by issuing corresponding memorandum or ordinances

• Provide key educational messages to event organizers and the public on the prevention and control of influenza A (H1N1) virus, such as: local situation with regards influenza A (H1N1), health alerts and advisories derived from newspapers and official websites, etc.

• Complement the preparations made by event organizers in the provision of adequate facilities and services for the public gathering

• Plan for the provision of on-site medical assistance for possible medical emergencies

• Report any incidence of flu-like illness manifesting or found in community or area where public gatherings are planned

In the event that a suspected case of Influenza A (H1N1) virus infection is reported in the scheduled public gathering, the DOH is authorized to investigate, make recommendations and assist the community to contain the infection, as specified in Republic Act No. 9271, Quarantine Act of 2004, "An Act Strengthening the Regulatory Capacity of the Department of Health in Quarantine and International Health Surveillance":

Section 1.4.b provides for the "apprehension, detention or surveillance for the purpose of preventing the introduction, transmission or spread of such public health emergencies of international concern as may be specified in Department Orders by the Secretary of Health upon the recommendation of the international health surveillance."

Implementing Rules and Regulations of "Quarantine Act of 2004", pursuant to RA 9271 further specifies under Section 53.2:

In the event of an outbreak of public health emergency of international concern in a community, the Director of the Bureau shall recommend to the Secretary of Health the following measures:

• "apprehension, detention / isolation or surveillance of suspect / cases;

• place under active or passive surveillance, individuals who have been exposed to the infection considered as dangerous contact; and

• declare an area or community "under quarantine" where the public health emergency occurs."

source: http://www.doh.gov.ph/

Pregnancy and Hypertension

Image via Wikipedia

Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension) is the most common problem likely to happen during your pregnancy. In fact two to three percent pregnant women have Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension).

I have a relative who had Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension) during her fourth pregnancy. first name found out on her third prenatal visit.

As she found out, first pregnancy, age older than 35 years, a new sexual partner, a history of pre-eclampsia, and time since your last pregnancy of less than 2 years or more than 10 years make it more likely to have Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension).

Other things that increase the risk of Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension) are chronic hypertension, thrombophilia, preexisting diabetes, type 2 and obesity.

Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension) might not cause any symptoms. However, it can cause visual disturbances like scintillations (flashes of light) and stomata (blind spots) - probably from spasm of cerebral arteries, rapidly increasing swelling of the legs and rapid weight gain. Upper abdominal pain might suddenly occur and is usually constant and fairly severe. Headaches are often in the front, throbbing and similar to migraine headaches.

The problem with Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension) is that it can cause thrombosis (blood clots), hemorrhage (bleeding) and even death of the mother. In fact, from 1991 to 1999 over 15% of the deaths of women during pregnancy were caused by Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension).

There are three types of Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension): Chronic Hypertension, Preeclampsia and Transient hypertension.

Chronic Hypertension

The majority of the time chronic hypertension has no other cause. However, it can be caused by kidney disease like poly cystic kidneys, glomerular or interstitial disease, too much parathyroid hormone or even using oral contraceptives.

Pre-eclampsia

Nobody knows for sure what causes pre-eclampsia. One thing that we know is that it is caused by a problem with the inside lining of the blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to spasm. When the arteries get smaller, the blood pressure increases. The damage also causes the blood vessels to leak causing swelling. It can cause problems with the brain, lungs and kidneys. These changes also can cause lower blood flow to the growing baby.

Transient hypertension

The elevated blood pressure called transient hypertension just happens late in pregnancy. Then after delivery, the blood pressure goes back to normal. But, it probably increases your chances of getting high blood pressure later in life.

Pre-Eclampsia (Pregnancy induced hypertension) is one of the major reasons that you should keep your regular appointments with your family doctor.

Boracay Tanning tips

This coming weekend me and my friends will visit the most popular Island (beach) in the Philippines and that's Boracay. And we are ready to have some tan and have some fun. here are some tips on how to have a safe bronze tan that every body wants, not just by soaking up in the sun and get all the sun you want, Its not like that.

Safe Tanning

Everyone loves the look of well tanned and healthy looking skin. But, in order to change your pasty white skin to warm, bronzed and beautiful you need to get a tan! We have all heard of the stigma that surrounds suntans and tanning beds, but the purpose of this article is to help you achieve a beautiful tan safely, not just by soaking up the sun at Boracay beach or other beach resort.

Dangers of Tanning:

You must have read that just by lying out in the sun at Boracay you are soaking up dangerous UV rays that can promote skin cancer. The more that you are exposed to intense sunshine, the greater the chances of complications. If you don't want to resemble an 89 year old person when you're 49, read on for all you need to getting a safe tan!

Best Ways to Tan in the Sun

When you are tanning in the sun, there are several tips that will insure that you tan securely. When just starting out, give yourself a given amount of time tanning and no more. As previously stated, the longer you are exposed to ultraviolet rays, the greater the risk. You shouldn't stay in the sun long enough to get a burn; just long enough to soak up some of those golden rays! Light skinned folks usually must have a shorter time in the sun's rays before they begin to burn, so remember to set a timer, To people with very white skin, do not apply things like butter or baby oil to speed up your tanning. These can speed up serious sun burns with blisters and even bleeding!

Best Suntan Products

When you are looking for suntan products, only apply products that are designed for tanning. Look for products that block the ultraviolet rays (spf) while allowing you to tan. Another thing to do is use a special hydrating lotion before and after your tanning session so your skin won't dry out from the sun. If you're getting rays at the beach, take along some sunscreen so that when your allotted tanning time is up, you can lather it on.

Sunless Tanning

If you would like a great tan without the problems, simply choose a sunless tanning product. A great thing to try is the spray on kind because there is less and lower the risk of uneven tanning in some places like knees, ankles and elbows. Start slowly as well. Rub in an amount just large enough to cover the skin. If you don't tan to the level you desire, you can always add more later, but it's a huge nuisance to remove it if you turn orange or very dark!

Tanning is great and it is great to look at, but if you do not apply these safe tanning tricks, you will end up looking more like a wrinkled old hag or a lobster! Good luck with working on your suntan and always do it safely. Boracay here we come!!!