Take Care of the Skin You're In

Summer is almost here. Clothes are getting skimpier, and soon you'll be donning your new bikini!

I wanted to take a moment to remind you to take care of yourself this summer. Skin cancer is very real and can happen to anyone.

I had a malignant melanoma on my left arm removed when I was only 24. Never in a million years did I think I would get skin cancer- especially at such a young age. Luckily my doctor got it all and I found it before it began to spread. But it was truly one of the most terrifying ordeals of my life thus far.

It is extremely important that you check over your body once a month or so. Look for any moles that have changed- are darker, have jagged borders, or just look different. Get your roomate, husband, or friend to look over those places you can't see.

Be smart. Tan is nice and all, but use good judgement so you can be around to enjoy your life.

Boosting your immune system

Cold and flu season is upon us. I have always thought it better to be proactive and preventative rather than spend the next few months in the doctor's office taking unnecessary antibiotics.

A good probiotic is a must. Did you know 80% of our immune system is formed in our gut? Probiotics are the good bacteria. We have them in our bodies, but when illness strikes, the bad guys take over. You can get probiotics at any grocery store: HEB, Whole Foods, Central Market, People's Pharmacy, etc. I also give it to my kids in powdered form mixed in apple sauce. You want a high potency probiotic with a variety of strains.

According to Dr. Mercola, "Total health begins in the gut, so if your GI tract is not in optimal health, then your overall health will be compromised."

Interestingly enough, Dr. M also states the following as essential components of staying healthy:

• avoid sugars, sweets, candies, cookies, etc.- sugar impairs your immune system
• avoid stress
• get plenty of sleep
• frequent handwashing (duh)

So if you are following a Paleo/zone diet along with the prescribed 9 hours of sleep, all you have to worry about is...washing your hands ?! I think you can handle that.

For more great info, make sure to visit Dr. Mercola's site.