HOW ALOE LOTION IS GOOD FOR THE SKIN

According to Dr. Michele Green, a board-certified dermatologist in NYC, the aloe plant is a humectant, which means it pulls water from the air deep into the skin to restore moisture levels. UV rays deplete skin of its natural hydrating oils which leaves the skin parched. Thus, the need to restore moisture to the skin. Aloe also has antioxidants to protect the skin's barrier. Also, it has vitamins, minerals and fatty acids which help strengthen nails. To use, buy a quality Aloe Vera skin lotion and apply to dry skin once a day after showering.

an example of a good aloe vera body lotion

BENEFITS OF COLORFUL FRUITS AND VEGETABLES PART II

Yesterday's post was about some of the benefits of eating colorful fruits and vegetables.  Today we will continue by discussing orange and green fruits and vegetables.  Remember these lists are partial but give you the idea of how color in your diet is beneficial.

• Orange - Carrots are one of the best foods for heart health.  Scientists have found that people who eat at least one serving of carrots a day are 60% less likely to have a heart attack!  Remember if you are diabetic, cooked carrots are higher in sugar than raw carrots.
• Sweet Potatoes are excellent sources of vitamin A.  One baked sweet potato provides 262% of your RDA of vitamin A.  One of the benefits of vitamin A is to keep your skin looking young by forming new cells.
• Cantaloupe gives your immune system a big boost.  One cup of cantaloupe has 113% of the RDA of vitamin C.  Vitamin C fuels infection-attacking while blood cells.
• Green - Broccoli is known for its' healthy benefits.  But did you know that compounds in broccoli reduce redness and inflammation from UV rays by 37%?
• Limes cancer-fighting properties remain in the bloodstream up to 24 hours after consumption!
• Spinach is packed with vitamin K.  One cup of spinach has 1,000% of the RDA for vitamin K.  Vitamin K is a nutrient that bonds calcium to bones and slows cell breakdown.

If you aren't including color in your diet on a daily basis, you are missing some vital vitamins and minerals!

file photo