Dietary Sunscreen 

Did you know that you can eat your sunscreen? As radical as that statement may sound, researchers are finding that more and more of the foods we eat have properties that function as "dietary sunscreen". The primary component of these foods and beverages are micronutrients, or nutrients that are needed in tiny amounts that facilitate a number of important body processes. Of particular importance are antioxidants and phytochemicals, which help to fight free radical damage done by UV rays.

Dietary Sources:

• Dark chocolate for its antioxidants (found in cacao - the higher the % cacao, the better the protection!)
• Black or green tea for their polyphenols 
• Citrus fruits for their ascorbate acid 
• Red and orange hued fruits and veggies for their carotenoids  
• Dark green leafy veggies for the compound sulforaphane 
• Tomatoes for their lycopene 
• Fatty fish for their omega-3 fatty acids
• Berries, red wine, and cocoa for their catechin content

Though potent, the consumption of these foods and nutrients are meant to enhance the action of sun block, not replace it.

DCR will be holding its next nutrition class on August 10 at 1:30 pm. The cost will be $15 for a one-hour class on the basics of diabetes management. This class is a great introduction for caregivers, family members, or co-workers of an individual with diabetes as well as a refresher for those diagnosed with diabetes. The class will be focused primarily on Type 2 diabetes, and will review carbohydrate counting, portion size, label reading, and more.  

Free A1c tests will be offered to all who attend!

Decoding a Sunscreen Label

Image via The New York Times

All information and images are from the FDA.

Do you suffer from burning, throbbing, or tingling pain in your feet? Are you taking pain medication?  

If so, you could have a condition called Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). You may be interested in a medical research study of Lyrica, a drug that is approved for neuropathic pain associated with DPN.

Individuals who qualify must be:

•  Men or Women who are 18 years of age or older;
• Currently diagnosed with Type 1 or 2 diabetes;
• Currently taking pain medication for DPN

To see if you qualify for this study, please contact:

Image via The Healthy Apron

Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the United States. Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun are the main cause of skin cancer. UV damage can also cause wrinkles and blotchy skin.

These are just some of the reasons why Diablo Clinical Research is proud to participate in UV Safety Month and help raise awareness of the risks of sun damage. During the month of July, join us in taking action to prevent skin cancer and reduce the risk of UV damage.

Anyone can get skin cancer, but the risk is greatest for people with:

• White or light-colored skin with freckles
• Blond or red hair
• Blue or green eyes

You can take steps today to protect your skin:

• Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
• Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
• Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.
• Check your skin regularly for changes.

Sponsor: American Academy of Ophthalmology  

My Plate

Image via the USDA

What do you think of the USDA's My Plate? Would you use it to help you structure your plate at meals?