1.  Inside/Outside Protection From The Sun.  Skin Cancer is the most common form of cancer in America.  In attempt to control this cancer scientist have taken a look at the use of carotenoids as a natural sunscreen. These carotenoids are the natural colors protecting plants from sun damage.  Our hope is that it can do the same for skin.  Cindy Schweitzer, Ph. D., senior scientist at Henkel in an article, "Natural Mixed Carotenoids Provide Inside/Outside Sun Protection" (Drug & Cosmetic Industry DEC, 1997), cites that beta-carotene has been approved in the U. S. for treating people with overly light-sensitve skin.  New research show encouraging data, that ingesting carotenoids offer defense against damaging UV rays. Studies provided by Henkel showed that "mixed carotenoids supplements," (50 mg) protect the skin against harmful radiation  (La Grange, IL based Henkel Nutrition & Health Group). In 1995, a study confirmed, taking mixed carotenoids, did reduced their erythema, (skin redness) upon exposure to UV radiation. According to Henkel, Europeans have been using carotenoids for years to protect against UV damage. *Twin Lab has an excellent Mega Carotene product containing a super blend of mixed carotenoids.*

2.  Reducing Abdominal Fat.  Experts have been telling us for years, that stomach fat is unhealthy, it gets in the way of digestion. It also points to heart disease. So how do we rid our stomachs of this extra stored adipose?  Even for people who workout, they may still have this problem.  Reduce the simple, worthless, sugars! These are the white flour products, refined food.  When eating large amounts of simple sugars the blood sugar levels as high as 180.  This  triggers a release of insulin, thus creating the body to stored excess calories.  If you can control the blood sugar you can control the body fat!  Excess blood sugar: extra fat!  Eat slow-burning carbos!  Slow burning carobs packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, will give the body the perfect fuel to control the blood sugar, thus controlling the hungry.

3.  Fat Counts!   Bad fat usually comes from animal sources, exception from a fish source. Generally, bad fat is from red fatty meats.  It is the saturated fats, to watch out and limit consumption. Some tropical oils such as coconut and palm oils contain a large amount of saturated fats.  Also avoid hydrogenated fats, found in processed foods everywhere.  These are also known as trans-fats. Evidence has shown these trans-fats increase the LDL, the bad cholesterol. So how much fat is good? The American Heart Association supports 20 per cent fat.  Dr. Dean Orish, the only MD to actually reverse cardiovascular disease without heart surgery, supports 10% fat (along with a high fiber diet). Here are some easy guideline:

   Calories                  10% Fat                 20% Fat
    1,500                      17 gms                  33 gms
    2,000                      22 gms                  44 gms
    2,500                      28 gms                  56gms
    3,000                      33 gms                  67 gms
    3,500                      39 gms                  78 gms
    4,000                      44 gms                  89 gms
    4,500                      50 gms                  100 gms