Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection Month (May)

The month of May is not only the host of Mother's Day, it is also Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection Month. So I though I would share some of the latest info on choosing the right sunscreen. Warmer weather is bound to get here eventually!

• Choose one with SPF 30-50 (SPF:  Sun Protection Factor) (higher SPF does not significantly increase protection).
• Look for "broad spectrum", which protects against both UVA and UVB rays.
• Opt for mineral sunscreen, which is less absorbed into the skin (these are "thicker"). Look for active ingredients of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide.
• Ideally, apply 20 minutes before sun exposure.
• Ingredients to avoid: Vitamin A/Retinyl Palmitate, Oxybenzone, Parabens.
• Avoid spray sunscreens until further research is done on possible risks from inhalation.

​The Environmental Working Group will be putting out their 2016 Sunscreen Guide this spring. Until then, check out last year's EWG's Guide to Sunscreens for safe products to use. Also be sure to check out the hall of shame!

The warmer weather will also mean the return of mosquitos!  Check out the latest EWG "guide to bug repellants in the age of Zika".

And I don't know anyone who doesn't want toned arms for the sleeveless season that is headed our way. Check out this quick Arm-Sculpting Challenge that can easily fit into your day.

And of course I have some recipes to share-all quick and easy, and taste-tested by my family and me:
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• Vegan Oatmeal Blender Pancakes-A great breakfast to have on a weekend morning. Wonderful topped with fresh fruit!
• Baked Polenta Fries with Tomato Garlic Sauce-A quick and easy side dish to go with grilled fish or chicken and veggies. This is a great substitution if you're craving fries!  No time to make the marinara? Just use a low sugar (under 5g per 1/2 cup) jarred option-this is my current favorite.
• Cauli-Power Fettuccine "Alfredo"-Delicious. And easy. For low carb options, no need to have this over pasta. It is great tossed with vegetables and pine nuts, or add chicken or fish.
• Veggie & Hummus Sandwich-I know, why do you need a recipe for a hummus sandwich? Basically, this is just a reminder that lunch is a great place to sneak vegetables into your day. I mean, that sandwich looks delicious! No need to follow the recipe to a T, add any vegetables that you have on hand.
• Warm Spring Salad-I'm a huge fan of quinoa salads. So easy to throw together on a busy night. And so easy to modify the recipe with vegetables that you have in your kitchen or garden! (Make sure to rinse the quinoa before you cook it-it removes the bitter, soapy flavor).

Bon Appetit!

And remember-"Do MORE of what makes you HAPPY!"

​by:  Jennifer Coatanroch