Best Products for a Healthy Summer

Reader Contribution by Jessica Kellner
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Smart sunglasses. We all know the sun’s UV rays increase our risk of skin cancer, but the potential damage UV rays can do to our eyes is less publicized. Short-term excessive exposure to UV radiation can cause what is essentially sunburn to the eyes, according to the American Optometric Association, which includes short-term discomfort, light sensitivity and redness. Long-term exposure can lead to increased chance of developing cataracts or macular degeneration, as well as retinal damage. Choose sunglasses that  block out 99 to 100 percent of UV-A and UV-B radiation and screen out 75 to 90 percent of visible light. Tens is an independent sunglasses company that makes sunglasses that protect the eyes from 100 percent of harmful rays, yet retains color quality. These filtering sunglasses work especially well for those with vision problems, especially degenerative eye diseases that affect light perception such as cone or rod dystrophy, as they help retain sharpness of vision while also protecting eyes. Order them at tenslife.com



  
The right sunscreen
. While we’re on the subject of UV rays, we may as well talk about sunscreen. Of course we all know that the sun’s rays can increase our risk of skin cancer, but did you know many types of sunscreen contain worrisome ingredients such as oxybenzone, a hormone disruptor, and retinyl palmitate, a form of vitamin A linked to skin damage that may speed development of skin cancer? Any sunscreen you buy should use the active ingredients zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) estimates that more than half of sunscreens on the American market would not meet European health requirements. If in doubt, check your sunscreen with the EWG. Derma-E and Honest Company both make good, easy-to-find options. 



Bug banisher
. Mosquitoes and ticks are more than irritating–they also spread disease. But many of us aren’t thrilled with slathering ourselves with the chemical DEET, which is used in most common bug repellents, so how to keep bugs at bay? Try a natural repellent such as Badger’s Anti-Bug Shake & Spray, made with citronella, rosemary and wintergreen. Other good options include burning citronella candles or torches, or making your own mosquito traps. Find the low-cost instructions here



A sweeter treat
. We all know summer is the perfect time for ice cream. If you or someone in your family suffers from lactose intolerance, though, that indulgence often must be denied. Luna & Larry’s Coconut Bliss changes all that. Lactose intolerant or not, every kid and adult will swoon over this delicious, coconut-based ice cream. Their ingredients are responsibly sourced, organic and free of dairy, soy and gluten. They are also (and most importantly) absolutely delicious. On top of that, they use sustainable practices in their manufacturing facility and headquarters. Basically, they’re impossible not to love! 



Cool drinks
. Another summer craving is for cool and refreshing drinks. Unfortunately, most prepackaged drinks on the market contain lots of sugar, along with dyes and other synthetic additives. Instead, opt for a refreshing drink that can actually enhance your health. Rishi offers a wonderful Paradise Punch tea made up of organic pineapple, sarsaparilla root, mango, hibiscus, lemon verbena, orange peel, lemon peel and lime oil. It makes a sweet and refreshing iced tea.


Stellar summer skin care
. One of my favorite products for summer skin care is witch hazel. All natural witch hazel is a great toner and it’s the perfect way to refresh summer skin. It also acts as a good mosquito repellent, on its own or combined with essential oils such as peppermint or tea tree, and a great treatment to relieve itchy bug bites. T.N. Dickinson’s is an easy-to-find brand free of artificial fragrances and dyes. 

  • Published on Jul 21, 2015
Tagged with: Reader Contributions
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