Nadia Neumann

It’s ESPECIALLY important to keep blood sugar levels steady in the morning with a breakfast high in protein and healthy fat. Because blood sugar regulation is key to fat loss and a healthy metabolism, frequent and irresponsible alcohol consumption can really screw with weight and body goals. Sure, pure aloe is cooling and hydrating, but it’s lacking in those antioxidants that help neutralize the free radicals created in the skin from UV exposure, and therefore help to prevent sun damage. I like to buy organic bulk hibiscus and organic bulk green tea to save some money and cut back on packaging waste, and ice them for a refreshing (and sugar-free! ) drink perfect for hot summer days.

Our body’s main source of vitamin D is from unprotected sun exposure to our skin. Over-exposure to the sun’s rays — staying out in direct sunlight all day long and getting burnt — can most definitely cause skin aging and DNA damage that, yes, can even lead to skin cancer. Many believe this is because UVB-blocking, chemical sunscreens keep skin from burning and so allow people to stay out in the sun longer, all the awhile they’re still getting exposed to those damaging UVA rays with no protection. The darker your skin, the more exposure you’ll need — the lighter your skin, the less exposure you’ll need.

Mineral oil — made from highly refined and processed petroleum, it clogs pores and suffocates the skin without providing any vitamins or antioxidants Making your own skincare and body care products is a wonderful way to know exactly what’s going in your products and so on your skin. As a well-seasoned homemade body scrub maker, I have to giggle at this because I know just how cheap the simple ingredients required to make a FANTASTIC scrub are. But you can really pep things up, add variety to your sugar scrubs, and transform your shower into a spa-like experience with just a few drops of essential oils. This Mint Mojito DIY Sugar Scrub recipe won’t just get your skin summer ready, but the scrumptious scent will have you instinctively humming “Cheeseburger in Paradise.

Whole house water filters are a great option for homeowners — though you may still want to use a drinking water filter in addition since whole house filters are limited in their purification abilities — while renters will want to opt for separate filters for the kitchen and bathroom. Even with the cost of the pre-filter (which needs to be changed every 2 months), post-filter, and the electricity required for the UV filter, it’s still a great price for the value. If you’re looking for a shower water filter with a wand, you’ll want one of these Aquasana shower water filters. Whereas other filtered water bottles usually require you to suck through a straw or mouthpiece attached to a filter which slows the flow of water and can get really frustrating, GRAYL bottles work like a French press to filter an entire bottle of water in just 15 seconds.