Wednesday's Hair Growth Tip!

4. Drink green tea!

I was on a hair care site not too long ago when I first read that green tea has been shown to enhance hair regrowth. A skeptic at first, I decided to see what research I could find on the topic. Amazingly, there are some studies that have suggested a connection between green tea and hair regrowth. Apparently, the growth is linked to the polyphenolic compounds -- which are antioxidants -- contained in green tea. Applying green tea topically or consuming it may prove beneficial. Further research may need to be performed, but the results of current studies are hopeful. For continued reading, check out the links below. In the mean time, drink your green tea ... if not for hair growth, drink for body health. (Antioxidants have also been linked to reducing oxidative stress, which has been associated with cancer and other diseases.)

GREEN TEA & HAIR GROWTH STUDIES:
ABSTRACT #1
ABSTRACT #2
FULL STUDY #2

MORE GREEN TEA & GROWTH INFO:
STUDY SUMMARIES & HOW TO USE GREEN TEA

Black Skin and Sunscreen

Believe it or not, sun burn can occur in black skin of any complexion. This reality is especially likely when we travel to countries closer to the Equator where the sun is more intense. For this reason, it is important to pack the sunscreen! Even if you don't plan on traveling south of the continental United States, it is still a good idea to wear protection this summer. Oxidative stress caused by sun exposure can lead to premature aging of the skin, including early onset of wrinkles. "Black will eventually crack", and it will do so at a faster pace without UV protection. Shield that face this summer with a moisturizer containing a minimum SPF of 15 and broad-spectrum (UVA & UVB) protection. (Many dermatologists actually recommend a minimum of SPF 30.)  To repair any sun damage incurred during the day, be sure to apply a nightly moisturizer containing retinol. It is also imperative to eat foods (such as carrots, green tea, etc.) that are high in antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress.

*Though it is rare, black skin can develop skin cancer as well. This is yet another reason to wear protection in the form of sunscreen.

SOURCES:
ANTIOXIDANTS & OXIDATIVE STRESS
SKIN CANCER
SUN DAMAGE & AGING
BLACK SKIN & SKIN CANCER

More Smoothies ... Breakfast on the Go!

Not enough time for breakfast? Well this smoothie delight takes less than 5 minutes to make. Once you're done, just pour into your thermal cup and drink on your way out the door. Skip the coffee and enjoy the most important meal of the day with a nutritious, satisfying treat! For more healthy smoothie recipes, check the links below.

PEANUT BUTTER BANANA SOY SMOOTHIE

Ingredients (for one Serving):
1 cup soy milk (plain or vanilla)
1 medium banana - quartered
1 tablespoon peanut butter
3 ice cubes

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to the blender and blend until smooth.

HEALTH BENEFITS:
*Peanut butter and soy milk are great sources of protein. Many soy milks (like the Silk brand) also contain just as much calcium and vitamin D as cow's milk, with the added benefit of omega-3 and antioxidants.
*Bananas are a good source of potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and manganese.
*The amount of nutrients in your peanut butter and soy milk varies brand to brand. I purchase Silk Soy Milk and Natural Jiff Peanut Butter for a combined nutritional value of 14g of protein, 4g of dietary fiber, etc.


SOURCE:
SMOOTHIE RECIPES #1
SMOOTHIE RECIPES #2
BANANA NUTRITION

Smoothie ... Does Your Body Good!

Smoothies are a fun, tasty, and easy way to get your vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber for the day. All you need is a blender, ice, and fruits for your basic smoothie. For more intricate recipes, add yogurt, milk, granola, or replace the fruits with vegetables. The following is a delicious recipe for a Cranberry Smoothie; click here for more healthy smoothie concoctions. For other recipes (e.g., low fat, breakfast, protein, etc.), check out this amazing inventory . You can also experiment with your own ingredients; I like to whip up banana, ice, peanut butter, and soy milk.



CRANBERRY SMOOTHIE RECIPE

Ingredients:
1 cup cranberries
2/3 cup cran-raspberry juice (less, if this is too sweet for you, but I like it sweeter)
1 cup raspberries
8 oz of yogurt, preferabbly Raspberry
1 1/2 cups of ice

Instructions:
Blend until smooth, give it a taste and decide if you need more ice or juice.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CRANBERRY:
Recent studies suggest that cranberries:
* provide maximum effect on suppressing the growth of various human cancer cells
* may decrease the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries).
* have the most antioxidant activity
* help keep certain bacteria (like E. coli) from attaching to the urinary tract wall
* decrease symptomatic urinary tract infections in women

Sources:
REASONS TO EAT CRANBERRY
CRANBERRY & OVARIAN CANCER