If you think you are eating too much sugar, you probably are. In this new world of “gluten free”, “dairy free”, “pescatarian-ism” and “vegan”, the biggest danger is being overlooked. Sugar is a killer! Not only is sugar bad for your waistline but it wreaks havoc on your skin.

Sugar breaks down collagen in the skin, causing sagging, wrinkles and looseness. This is called glycation. Too much sugar can also cause redness, dryness and brittle skin. This takes years to develop but glycation is always occurring as your body breaks down sugar. Think twice before you reach for that candy.

Sugar is found in everything and is most likely lurking in food and drinks that you don’t even think about. This can cause weight gain and high blood sugar levels. When grocery shopping read the ingredients, they’re provided for a reason. Stay clear of ‘hidden sugars’ such as (HFCS) or high fructose corn syrup, maltose, sucrose, fructose and glucose. Beverages are the worst when it comes to hidden sugars. Energy drinks, juice and coffee drinks can contain up to 62 grams of sugar! The recommended daily intake of sugar for women is 24 grams or 6 teaspoons and for men 36 grams or 9 teaspoons. 24-36 grams is still a lot of sugar!

You don’t have to fully cut sugar out of your diet, there are ways to slowly replace it with healthier options. When baking try replacing sugar with almond, vanilla, orange or lemon extract. Try using spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. Unsweetened applesauce is another great substitution and its yummy!

Hopefully this didn’t scare you too much, the occasional cheat with chocolate is allowed, just all in moderation. Share your low-sugar/sugar-free recipes with us!

A new fitness trend is surfing its way into cities across the country. Gone are the days you need to live near the ocean to surf, you can now do it as your workout, inside! Surfset is hottest workout class around. Think TRX(for your muscles), Bosu ball(for core and balance) and spinning(for cardio) get married. 

In surfset class you stand on a surf board that simulates surfing. You engage your entire body and depending on which program you choose, you can focus on stability, fat burning, getting ripped or a combination of all. Designed to engage core and stabilizing muscles this class will get your heart rate up and the sweat pouring. For $35 this is no bargain but it is fun.

Check out this fun workout class at www.surfsetfitness.com.

 

With May being skin cancer awareness month, we thought we should offer some good alternatives to tanning. Safer options that give the same beautiful glow as the sun without all the side effects and damage.

There are two safe choices when wanting a tan. You can choose a self tanner or a bronzer. Self tanners will actually darken the skin temporarily, while bronzers wash off with soap and water at the end of the day or night. These are a few of our favorites.

Self Tanners

For self tanners we recommend Dr. Dennis Gross-Alpha Beta Glow pad. These towels allow for great coverage but also deliver a treatment. They contain Vitamin D and Alpha Hydroxy. Another favorite is St. Tropez, which is the king of tan products. Their Everyday Gradual Tanner moisturizer, gives great coverage and hydration because it is actually a moisturizer. Known for it’s ‘non-tanner’ like fragrance this is a winner!

Bronzers 

St. Tropez also offers bronzers in a variety of shades. Their Wash Off Instant Glow Body lotion washes off with soap and water and gives a very sexy glow. This is good for anyone who doesn’t want to commit to a self tan. Personally my favorite all time bronzer is Scott Barnes Body Bling. Originally created for Jennifer Lopez, this pearly bronzer is perfection. Available in two shades it can be used everywhere but the face. This product covers spider veins, uneven skin tone, sun damage and also makes you appear glowy and tan.

All of these products can be found online or at most beauty supply stores.