Tuesday, January 29, 2008

Health Tips for January 29

Health Tip: Use Sunscreen Year-Round

While you may remember to use sunscreen before you head to the beach during the summer heat, your skin should be protected any time you are in the sun -- even during winter.

Here are suggestions for how and when to use sunscreen, courtesy of The Skin Cancer Foundation:

* Children aged 6 months or older should always wear sunscreen when they are outdoors. Children younger than 6 months should not be exposed to the sun whenever possible.
* People who work or sit near windows for long periods should wear sunscreen. Harmful UV rays do pass through windows.
* Wear sunscreen year-round, even on cloudy days, whenever you'll be outside.
* Use sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 15 or higher. Make sure the product offers broad-spectrum protection.

Health Tip: Exercise for Teens

A daily trip to the gym isn't a popular pastime for some teens. So the Nemours Foundation offers these ideas for fun and different ways for teens to get exercise:

* Go for a walk with friends, ride a bike, or take the dog for a walk.
* Clean your room, mow the lawn with a push mower, or wash the car.
* Play video games that force you to move around.
* Turn on the music, close the door, and dance in your room to your favorite songs.
* Try a new sport or a new type of exercise -- and get a friend to try it with you.

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