It's All About the Antioxidant

It's probably likely that you've picked up a food package or skincare product with the word "antioxidant" printed on the label. It sure sounds fancy and healthy, but what is it?! The concept of an antioxidant is so simple yet complex. I promise you don't need to be a science whiz to be skincare savvy. Let's start with the term "free radical". A free radical is an atom with unpaired electrons. That free radical will then start to oxidize. As a result, the free radical atom will steal electrons from healthy cells. Eventually, many healthy cells will turn into free radicals as well. Free radicals can originate from environmental stressors such as pollution and sun damage. In the long-term, if the skin does not receive a hefty dose of antioxidants then breakdown of collagen occurs, DNA can mutate, and the skin cannot heal itself properly. Scary!

For anyone who lives in a polluted city like me, I sure don't want my healthy skin cells damaged. The power of antioxidants is certainly a popular trend. Antioxidants are so important because they are capable of donating electrons to the free radicals. It's proven that antioxidants can slow down free radical damage in order to improve elasticity in the skin, build collagen, and reduce sun damage. Overall, antioxidants are a fabulous way to regenerate healthier skin cells. 

You've probably already heard of a couple of antioxidants like the famous vitamin C or vitamin E. Here are a couple of antioxidant superstars:

Vitamin C: evens skin tone and texture, repairs and maintains collagen  

Vitamin E: heals burns, protects the skin from early signs of ultraviolet sun damage

Chamomile extract: anti-irritant, anti-inflammatory

Green tea: anti-inflammatory, prevent collagen breakdown, reduce UV damage 

Remember, it's always a good idea to load up on antioxidants through foods and good skincare products! 

For a full list of antioxidants check out my favorite website: Paula's Choice Antioxidants

Also, check out this helpful video that explains the idea of antioxidants using helpful visual.

How Manly Is Your Skin Care Regimen?

metrosexual |ˌmetrōˈsekSHo͞oəl|

noun

a young, urban, heterosexual male with liberal political views, an interest in fashion, and a refined sense of taste.

       After reading the definition of metrosexual would you add anything? I have to be honest. I think the definition readily implies that a metrosexual often keeps up with his image. Particularly, their skin care regimen. I'm most interested in how societal gender norms impact the way we assume how individuals care for their skin. It may be stereotypical, but females are more widely expected to upkeep their appearance; buy expensive anti-aging products, get botox injections, succumb to the power of plastic surgery. However, the term metrosexual implies that our views have embraced a shift in ideology. The heterosexual man is no longer limited in his choice of skin care regimen. Although at first we may see this as a break in traditional gender norms, we must examine more closely. The definition also indicates that in order for this metrosexual man to upkeep his appearance, he must be "liberal", take an "interest in fashion", and have sophisticated "sense of taste". I believe that this creates a strong split between metrosexuals and non metrosexuals. It then becomes expected for a non metrosexual to shy away from "mangrooming" and stick to the old fashioned soap and water combination. In short, I posit that while women are wholly expected to adhere to a full skin care regimen, only certain types of men are socially accepted to follow a skin care regimen. Furthermore, the structure of skin care websites reveal how we think about skin care in terms of gender.
     
       For example, websites like Kiehl's and Clarins have specific directory tabs at the top of their website. There are categories such as "face", "body", "hair", and then "men". The tab for "face" is usually categorized by concerns and collections. Resultantly, skincare "concerns" create an ambiguity in who will use the product. However, men receive their own special tab. Most companies would argue that men tend to have a different skin type; they have more rapid oil production, have thicker skin, and are more prone to irritation from shaving. This allows for the development of appropriate products. I agree with this argument to an extent. However, in terms of moisture levels (oil production), not all men are oiler. I've seen some pretty dry skin for men from my experience. In my opinion, skin care should be based on skin concerns and needs and not based on gender. However, the reality is that men have been using soap and water for a long time. As a result, marketing and campaign strategies are fostered to capture the attention of men.

       For the company Kiehl's, the "Facial Fuel" line is a whirlwind of navy blue packaging, accompanied by visuals of airplanes and manly words such as "reenergizing" and "ultimate man". The biggest upward trend and potential market for new customers in skin care companies are men. However, I'm sure metrosexual men or men who always had a complete skin care regimen were already using products. They didn't need male friendly marketing to persuade them to use the products. This is significant because it shows that the skin care industry's efforts are to draw in the typical traditional heterosexual male. As smart as these campaigns may be in regards to business, they are certainly reenforcing societal gender norms.

       From my experience I've had countless interactions with male clients. There's a spectrum of skin care clients/consumers. The lowest rung on the ladder are those males who just wash their face in the shower with soap and water (St. Ives?). Then, the second rung are the males who have the basics down, cleanser and moisturizer. Next, the third rung entails a male who is willing to add in special products such as a toner, eye cream, or serum. Lastly, the ideal male customer for skin care companies is one that uses all products which cover a full skin care regimen, shave products and body products. It certainly takes persuasion and effort to work these clients up to the highest rung on the ladder. It's a challenge but it's not impossible.

       Skin care companies would probably also argue that men have a different lifestyle. They are always on the go and don't want to take the time to follow a detailed regimen. Is it because we view males as the breadwinners? It seems like we assume all males have a corporate job that starts at 8 am, in which they cannot possibly take time in the morning to wash their faces properly. I'm not a male, but yet my life is busy. I'm a student and a worker filled with class assignments and the desire to keep my life social. Yes, I follow a full skin care regimen and make time for facials. I think that lifestyle varies in term of the individual and not gender wise.

       In an ever changing world I think that this topic is definitely up for debate and discussion. It's also an effective way to really zero in on how to further market towards the male demographic. But keep in mind, how would these marketing campaigns look like in order to deplete such strict generalizations of females, males, and categories within men?

       

Once Upon A Time...

..."Organic food was just called food." 

                     ~Hunter Professor 

Flying down train escalators. Caffeine rushes. Familiar faces, foreign faces. Oh my.

Fall semester is here. There is always a mix of emotions floating around my head at the start of a new semester. It's a feeling of nostalgia for learning new ideas, theories and knowledge. Then panic briefly strikes at the thought of long tiring nights. The days will certainly pass by and the holidays will arrive in no time. I'm sure most students are concerned about how to keep up their energy. 

Our bodies are powerful engines. Yes, they can be fully energized. But, there needs to be the right conditions for our body to emit energy. I recently finished an enlightening self help book by Certified Nutritionist Kimberly Snyder called "The Beauty Detox Solution". Snyder unveils the simple truth of how food effects our digestion process. Our body can process fruits, vegetables and nuts a lot more quickly than starches and animal protein. The longer the digestion process more energy is required by the body to digest the food. Therefore, our bodies are hard at work leaving less time for the cells to carry out processes that can leave our skin glowing and maintain physical/mental energy. 

Why is it that we are so tired after eating large holiday meals? It's because we are most likely stuffing animal protein, starches, vegetables and dessert all in a matter of an hour. Our digestion system becomes clogged and our body is hard at work. Some call it the "itis"! 

Hopefully this semester you can tweak your eating habits to help you through those all nighters and finals. Try to follow these simple philosophies.

• Before a meal eat your fruits and vegetables first so your stomach can easily absorb its nutrients
• For efficient digestion pair animal protein (beef, chicken, fish) with vegetables/fruits, if you decide to eat starches/carbs (pasta, bread, grains) also eat it along with vegetables/fruits
• Try to avoid eating starches/carbs and animal protein together, it's a full blown workout for the digestive system!
• Hydrate throughout the day, add lemon, don't drink it all at once or else you will have to pee often
• Try a B Multi vitamin (time released) to sustain mental energy throughout the day 
• Incorporate probiotic pills for a delivery of good bacteria in the stomach 
• Take enzyme capsules or drink Kombucha to help aid the digestive flow 

Remember, efficient and easy digestive flow with yield more mental/physical energy!

First Time Experience at an All-Inclusive

Vacations are meant to be a change of scenery and routines. Recently I spent a week in Punta Cana, I enjoyed the gorgeous beaches and refreshing pool with my boyfriend and friends. My mind felt at peace while I felt the motion of the waves in the Ocean. However, it was certainly a challenge to upkeep my eating habits. The resort was all inclusive meaning unlimited choices of food. I managed to eat my fruits and vegetables, guzzle lots of water and stick to small portions. The downside about the food is that you can definitely tell everything is drenched in sauces and tons of salt to ensure good taste. My stomach was not used to all the added stuff on top of my vegetables. 

I do admit that I am a crazy sweet tooth. I couldn't help but try the desserts because I knew it would be regretted. Also, the all you can drink part of the package only added to my bloated feeling. No one is perfect including myself. Coming home I really felt like crap. My stomach was bulging and I felt sluggish. I truly missed the way I ate when at home. For next time, I would want to only stick to dessert once a day and limit myself to only two drinks a day. 

As I'm writing this I'm enjoying a wonderful snack of carrots and a tbsp of hummus. Oh how I've missed eating healthily :) 

How To Get Back Into the Healthy Groove Post-Vacation

• Remind yourself of the feelings that good eating brings to your body
• Drink plenty of water, and add lemon to bring down bloating
• Eat lightly 
• Eat fruits and vegetables that contain lots of water (watermelon, lettuce) to alleviate bloating 
• Go for a run, dance to your favorite music or hit the gym to get your metabolism up 
• Nourish your body with an exfoliating wash
• Rehydrate your face with a yogurt, honey, and brown sugar scrub  

Mind Game: Rethink the Fried Chicken

The whole train cart reeked of fried chicken. Directly across from me a large women chomped on her Popeye's drumstick. My first reaction...damn, that smells good. However on second thought it was truly repulsive. She seemed to mindlessly intake the fried chicken like a zombie. Perhaps she had a bad day or could only afford Popeyes, but it kept me thinking about how psychological eating choices are. 

Making constant healthy eating choices is definitely a habit I have worked towards and struggle to maintain. Lately I've noticed that when I wake up in the morning and pop open my fridge I actually demonstrate conscience thought. Yes, my eyes are still heavy with tiredness but I truly ponder about what foods are going to respect my body. What foods are going to deliver antioxidants, keep me full but not bloated, boost up my metabolism and energy levels? 

I think this is  habit is worthy for everyone to try. Even if you just start at breakfast. Pause and evaluate what foods are going to really be beneficial for your health. 

Fav Workout Move of the Week

I guarantee this will totally make a difference in your ab workout routine.

Don't forget those side abs ! 

You can moderate this move by either taking out the dumbbell that is supporting your stance. Or, if you feel wobbly at first, just hold the pose to find your balance. Then, add the weights. 

Taken from: Women's Health Magazine, June 2012

Lunches, Vending Machines, Bake Sales-Oh My!

           “Their idea of improved nutrition is a healthier donut,” my mother exclaimed, while we discussed public school nutrition.

            As a graduate of the public school education system, my mother and I know firsthand the horrid food choices that are available for students. Michelle Obama is also aware of the poorly enforced school lunches after she discovered, “mystery meat slathered with syrupy brown sauce, served with a brown whole wheat role and a salad no kids touched, and chocolate milk” was served as a meal considered to be up to “USDA standard” (Julian 50). Not only does this quote describe a repulsive meal but it also unveils how vegetables are not highly valued for many children. I believe that in the US, the educational setting is contributing to childhood obesity through subsidized school lunches, quick sugary snacks and beverages in vending machines, and excessive amounts of bake sales. Furthermore, it would be beneficial to examine the history of school lunch programs in order to understand the current concerns over available meals.

            Subsidized school lunch dates back to President Franklin Roosevelt’s era. Roosevelt developed farm-subsidized programs during the Great Depression to ensure food distribution to those in need (Julian 46). The subsidized food programs eventually passed on to the United States Department of Agriculture. The USDA controls a vast public school food program which in the “2008-09 school year, over 31 million American children ate a federally subsidized school lunch, and more than 19 million of them paid either a reduced price or nothing for their food” (Julian 46). This staggering fact emphasizes the USDA’s crucial role in bringing food to the low-income households.

Although the USDA’s school lunch program is affordable, nutritionists are wary of its health standards. Janice Poppendieck author of, Free For All, explains the politics behind USDA subsidized school lunches:

“The focus was on using the available foods, not on a balanced diet. The USDA staff who developed these regulations did not think they were setting up the parameters for a permanent national school food program. They had commodities; they needed a morally and politically acceptable outlet, and they established rules and procedures that reflected their farm income agenda. In fact, regulations they established set the tone and structure for the program and have endures, in updated form, until the present” (Julian 47).

Poppendieck’s explanation is useful because she highlights the “established rules and procedures that reflected their farm income agenda” as the underlying factor for why the USDA focuses on affordability as opposed to health (Julian 47). She effectively argues that these subsidized food programs were formed originally to distribute produce in response to poverty during the Great Depression. Although poverty is not as prevalent today in comparison to the Great Depression, it is fair to say that public schools do face economic issues.

            In Public School 295 in Sunset Park, Brooklyn the asking price for a cupcake increased from $0.50 to $1.00 (Spencer 1). This sudden change of price set off a controversy among parents of lower income households. It is vital to recognize that a broad range of median household income in areas of public schools such as P.S. 295, which jumped from $34,878 to $64,184 in a matter of ten years (Spencer 1). This leaves “asking price” as a sensitive topic for those who can’t afford it.

Carmen Reyes, P.S./I.S 180 PTA president, is familiar with such cases that involve students who cannot afford certain fundraising activities. Reyes was confronted by students who could not afford to spend $20 on unlimited food and drink bracelets (Spencer 2). The PTA president formulated a compromise, which allowed the students to decorate in exchange for the bracelets. This example is significant because it demonstrates cases in which families are unable to afford fundraiser prices. Fundraisers reveal the financial troubles that many families face. USDA subsidized food programs prove to be of importance to families who rely on it. Despite major budget cuts in the public schools the USDA’s subsidized program remains stable.

To combat city budget cuts, classic forms of fundraising-such as bake sales-have become the quick way to rack in cash. Due to the USDA’s past lack of nutritional value, New York City public schools developed a culture that embraces the enticing appeal of mouthwatering fatty foods. Bake sales are central to the public school education system in two ways; firstly it fits the culture and secondly it generates cash fast. However, with the rise of obesity, these readily available bake sales are only contributing to the disease.

The possibility of banning bake sales would only ignite controversy. Perhaps, outraged parents might express the ban on bake sales as too limiting. Often times, Americans repudiate government intervention because they believe it violates their “freedom”. The Healthy, Hunger-free act calls for more government action to help improve the quality of school lunches (Pear).

Some critics such as Representative Paul Broun, Republican of Georgia and physician greatly disagree with the recently passed act:

“This bill is not about child nutrition. It’s not about healthy kids. It’s about an expansion of the federal government, more and more control from Washington, borrowing more money and putting our children in greater debt. The federal government has no business setting nutritional standards and telling families what they should and should not eat” (Pear).

Although Mr. Broun does not concede with government influence over nutritional standards, it would be hard for him to avoid alarming facts. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “one in every five children are obese” (Nixon 1). It seems unbelievable that Mr. Broun should be in resistance of nutritional guidance, especially when faced with a national issue of obesity. Federal government control is important when it comes to large-scale change. The idea of families being told, “what they should and should not eat” is not a matter of control but an issue of positive macro scale change (Pear). Although I believe the federal government should induce nutritional change, I also insist that change occur from private companies.

            Consider the study conducted by the National Academy of Sciences, which estimated that, “about $2.3 billion worth of snack foods and beverages are sold annually in schools nationwide” in vending machines (Nixon 1). This fact indicates that these goodies sold are popular choices among children, unlike the salad bar. Gary Hirshberg the CEO of Stonyfield Farm sarcastically remarked, “I wasn’t aware Skittles was a food group”, in disgust at the choices in vending machines (Tyre and Sarah). In response, Hirshberg created a healthier vending machine for schools. Such items included were yogurt smoothies, fruit leathers, and whole-wheat pretzels (Tyre and Sarah). Alongside the Stonyfield’s CEO is Christopher Gindlesperger, director of communications for the American Beverage Association, has exercised his power to help schools eliminate sugary drinks and replace them with healthier options (Nixon 2). Despite Hirshberg and Gindlesperger’s efforts, their alternatives do not profit as greatly compared to the old food options. However, their efforts are evidence that big corporations are willing to help fight growing obesity.

Action from big corporations to reduce obesity is certainly necessary. The Journal of The Royal Institute of Public Health conducted a statistical study, which concluded, “Surrounding food outlets could also lower the effectiveness of health education in the classroom by setting a highly visible example that counters educational messages” (Sturm 689). This highlights the threatening effect food businesses can impose on school efforts to induce nutritional change. Moreover, a team of researchers examined the association between food environment and obesity based on walkability in New York City. Their published work in “Environment Health Perspectives” reaches many interesting conclusions such as a link between BMI healthy food outlets and lower average mean BMIs (Rundle et al. 445). This suggests that people who live in areas that have healthier options are more likely to incorporate nutritious foods into their diet. In addition, the study identified neighborhood income and race/ethnicity as prevalent variables. For example, low densities of healthy food outlets were most common in poor and predominantly Black/Hispanic neighborhoods (Rundle et al. 445). Overall, both studies support the argument that surrounding environments can truly impact diet. More importantly, public schools do reside in areas of low volume healthy outlets.

Up to this point, I have unpacked the history of school lunch programs that emulate two vital arguments. On the one hand, the USDA designed the subsidized meals to favor surplus of crops over nutritional value. As a consequence, many public schools have developed fundraisers such as bake sales that have questionable nutritional value. Unfortunately, poor food choices are also reinforced through vending machines. Socioeconomic conditions play a role in obesity as well. McDonalds, home of the over processed hamburger, is an example of private corporations that can reverse the effects of nutritional education taught in schools. In order to combat growing obesity trends, a valid solution would need to be mindful of affordability and promote fun ways to embrace healthy food/snack options.

            Consider The Wellness in Schools organization, which runs the Cook For Kids program. The program teaches both students and teachers the importance of locally and seasonally grown produce. Then, the program branches out into the fundamentals of cooking. To raise funds, Wellness in Schools paired up with over 40 restaurants to help raise funds for the organization. For example, couples could attend a Valentine’s Day cooking class at the Culinary Loft for $150 per person (Fabricant 1). Or others could participate in free seminars at Brooklyn Wine Exchange and enjoy two free drinks (Fabricant 1). At the end of the event each participating restaurant provided a voluntary donation card. There is a range of options available for those willing to spend a lot, a little, or no money at events. This availability of financial choice will be able to involve all income levels. Even further, the suggested donation card alleviates financial pressure. Although I advocate the financial choice supported in Wellness in School’s fundraising, I do not concede with the content of the all of the events. For example, one of the restaurants hosted an all you can eat chicken wing competition (Fabricant 1). The idea of consuming unnecessary amounts of chicken wings is not an ideal healthy choice.

My advocacy for New York City public school fundraisers to maintain affordability and nutrition could be possible if two guidelines are followed. The first, to offer several price options for event charges/admissions which families can choose from. Or, if students receive reduced lunch, this can serve as an indicator for qualification for reduced admission charge. Alongside affordability, fundraising events should embrace an opportunity to creatively incorporate nutritional value.  Perhaps one solution may be to provide several healthy modified international food cooking classes. Parents who want to volunteer their time could run these cooking classes. Then, after the classes are done families can donate as much as they would like to the school. This is a great way for all the families to become involved regardless of economic background. For those who do not want to donate, they can still participate in just teaching the cooking class. Although the end donation is just optional, the families who want to donate can offer an amount they are comfortable with. The international dishes will be required to reflect a balanced diet; the plate should be ½ filled with fruits and vegetables, ¼ of whole grains, and ¼ healthy protein. Overall, New York City public schools should work towards better health for their students while maintaining a mindful attitude of financial variability.

When I envision nutritional changes in public schools I certainly do not believe a “healthier donut” is the answer. This paper has allowed me to explore several contributing factors to obesity. The historical background of the USDA’s school lunch program explains the triumph of crop surplus over nutritional balance. Although this ideal worked well during the early 1900s, Americans are now faced with the issue of obesity. In addition, vending machines stocked with sugary snacks and beverages are easily accessible to many students. Also, depending on the school’s location there may be low densities of healthy food outlets. Even further, the popular bake sale fundraiser is as addictive as sugar. To break this addiction school’s need to creatively reform fundraisers to include all economic classes. However, more importantly a healthy balanced meal should receive the attention it deserves. Hopefully others can realize the contribution of USDA subsidized lunches, vending machines, and bake sales have on obesity in public schools and work towards solutions.

Works Cited

Fabricant, Florence. "Calendar." LexisNexis Academic. LexisNexis, 9 Feb. 2011. Web. 5 Apr. 2012.

Julian, Liam. "Why School Lunch Is "Nasty!"" Policy Review (2010): 43-53. Academic Search Complete. Web. 17 Apr. 2012.

Neckerman, Kathryn M. "Disparities in the Food Environments of New York City Public Schools." Academic Journal of Preventative Medicine 39.3 (2010): 195-202.SciVerse ScienceDirect. 18 Jan. 2008. Web. 17 Apr. 2012.

Nixon, Ron. "New Guidelines Planned on School Vending Machines." New York Times 21 Feb. 2012: A11. New York Times. 20 Feb. 2012. Web. 25 Mar. 2012. <www.newyorktimes.com>.

Pear, Robert. "Congress Approves Child Nutrition Bill." New York Times. 2 Dec. 2010. Web. <http://www.nytimes.com/2010/12/03/us/politics/03child.html>.

Perez-Pena, Richard. "Obesity on Rise in New York Public Schools." New York Times. 3 July 2003. Web. <http://www.nytimes.com/2003/07/09/nyregion/obesity-on-rise-in-new-york-public-schools.html>.

Rundle, Andrew, Kathryn Neckerman, Lance Freeman, Gina S. Lovasi, Marnie Purciel, James Quinn, Catherine Richards, Neelanjan Sircar, and Christopher Weiss. "Neighborhood Food Environment and Walkability Predict Obesity in New York City." JSTOR. JSTOR, 05 June 2012. Web. 6 May 2012. <http://www.jstor.org/discover/10.2307/25472610?uid=3739832&uid=2134&uid=2&uid=70&uid=4&uid=3739256&sid=56146003023>.

Sanjek, Roger. "Color-Full before Color Blind: The Emergence of Multiracial Neighborhood Politics in Queens." American Anthropologist 102.4 (2000): 762-72. Print.

Spencer, Kyle. "'It's Never Just About The Cupcake'" New York Times 18 Mar. 2012, MB sec. LexisNexis Academic. Web. 17 Apr. 2012.

Tygre, Peg, and Sarah Staveley-O'-carroll. "How to Fix School Lunch." Academic Search Complete. EBSCO. Web. 7 May 2012. <http://web.ebscohost.com.proxy.wexler.hunter.cuny.edu/ehost/detail?sid=b91097ff-a028-4233-940d-6e3cab6278ab%40sessionmgr110&vid=4&hid=108&bdata=JnNpdGU9ZWhvc3QtbGl2ZQ%3d%3d#db=a9h&AN=17781036>.