Every week we like to bring you a roundup of some of the latest trends in beauty, health and wellness, and other articles of interest to ZENMED blog readers. Last week, we came across some interesting posts on foods to improve fitness, the link between inflammation and aging, a Grammy winner’s stance on Photoshop, bad foods and the dangers of storing beauty products in the bathroom.
11 ‘fitness foods’ help you get in shape faster
Cynthia Sass explains how certain foods can boost everything from stamina to endurance and explains how simple food choices can get you in shape more quickly. Beets, for example, can give provide you with the same level of energy as caffeine. Raw honey will aid endurance, while tart cherries may help eliminate pain after working out. To fight inflammation, blueberries are recommended. As a matter of fact, this will be a great tip to keep in mind when reading the next story.
Understanding inflammation: the root cause of skin aging
Rhonda Allison reports on new evidence that chronic inflammation may actually be the leading cause of skin aging. Citing an article in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, this type of inflammation– which is both preventable and treatable — is caused by the immune system attacks normal tissues. In addition to skin aging, chronic inflammation may be the source of other skin conditions such as Rosacea, Eczema, and hyperpigmentation.
Lorde bares her acne to prove ‘flaws are OK’
Lorde, the Grammy-winning voice of the hit song ‘Royals’, took to Twitter to voice her discontent after a Photoshopped picture surfaced, having erased her acne to give her the appearance of flawless skin. Eun Kyung Kim also shares that the songstress wants her fellow teens to understand that even superstars can suffer from troubled skin, pointing out that Lorde has posted images of herself on Instagram sans makeup sporting acne spot treatment cream.
Consumer Reports: Good food gone bad
Deanna Dewberry reports on an investigation into seemingly healthy foods that may be anything but. According to new testing done by Consumer Reports, things often found in the health foods section of the supermarket may be full of sodium and sugar. Products to be wary of, according the the article, include Naked Juice, Oscar Meyer packaged deli turkey, veggie chips and popcorn.
The dirty truth about the (expired) beauty products in your bathroom
Toss that eye liner after 3-6 months. And get rid of your loofah after 3 weeks. Why? Bacteria are lurking in the bathroom and may be posing a dangerous risk to your health, reports Sara Boboltz. Most beauty products need to be stored in a cool, dry place, yet they are often stored in the bathroom. The combination of heat and moisture can promote bacteria growth on everything from razor blades to mascara. If you use natural, plant-based products, the article says they actually attract the growth of microbes. When in doubt, throw it out!