Tasteful Tip Tuesday: May 2019

Choose Your Sunscreen Wisely

Consumer Reports (CR) tests of more than 70 sunscreen products—including lotions, sprays, sticks and lip balm—shine a new light on how protective their sun protection factor (SPF) really is. The sunscreens CR tested had a listed SPF of at least 30 and were marketed as water-resistant.

The results are shocking. Nearly one-third of all the sunscreens that CR examined tested at less than half their labeled SPF number. So, while you’re still getting some protection from those sunscreens, you’re not getting as much protection as you think you are. When shopping for sunscreens this year, look at the ingredients list. CR recommends using sunscreens with active chemical ingredients like avobenzone and ecamsule, as these performed better during testing than those with natural ingredients like zinc oxide.

A Breath of Fresh Air

Cigarette smoking is a life-threatening habit, decried by every major health organization across the globe. The tobacco epidemic is so pervasive that the World Health Organization (WHO) supports World No Tobacco Day, held annually on May 31. This day is meant to “demonstrate the threats that the tobacco industry poses to the sustainable development of all countries,” according to the WHO website.

The largest threat comes from preventable deaths, with about 6 million people dying each year from tobacco use. Do your part to help curb tobacco consumption with these cessation tips:

• Think of the innumerable benefits to quitting, like saving more money, lowering your cancer risks and feeling healthier overall.

• Think about when you smoke and why you smoke—keep track of when you light up. Identifying your triggers can help you prepare to quit.

• If you are using medication to help you quit, make sure to follow the instructions carefully.

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