Tape it up:
Ace bandages are so a few years ago. The newest pain relief support is called KT Tape, which is the first and only Kinesiology Therapeutic Tape available in convenient pre-cut strips. The tape is a high performance elastic athletic tape used for treating muscle and joint injuries. By lifting the skin and relieving pressure on pain transmitters, KT Tape provides muscle-pain relief and support without restricting motion. The product is so unique because it’s for anyone, athletes of all sports and levels and is the perfect item to keep in your backpack or gym bag for that unwelcomed injury or pain. I found KT Tape very effective for a recent foot injury from running. I applied it on the inner left side of my right foot where I recently strained some ligaments and found that the tape was easy to apply and took all the pressure off of that sensitive spot during my run. The tape worked much better than an ace bandage I had recently been using and since it promotes healing, I was not worried about the possibility of reinjury.

KT Tape comes with 20 precut strips attached to a 16’ roll which is enough tape for 10-20 applications and can last anywhere from 40-60 days depending on usage. You can wear KT Tape in the shower or pool and with fun colors like blue, pink, red and green, you might not want to take it off. KT Tape’s Web site is a great resource for video instructions and tips to apply the tape. Visit http://www.kttape.com to learn more and to find a retailer near you. In NYC, KT Tape is available at Sports Authority and Paragon Sports.

Flip for comfort:
After a workout sometimes I just want to rip my sneakers off and let my feet breathe. Whether you can agree or not, something we could all use this summer is a sandal that is both fashionable and comfortable. OKA b.’s Malia flip flops are just that, they are sandals that can be worn with a multitude of outfits, whether they are your post-wedding shoes, commute to work in shoes or like me, post-workout shoes, you really can’t go wrong. The sandal, as with all OKA b. sandals is 100% recyclable, waterproof, made in the USA and priced under $40.

OKA b. began with two basic styles, a slide and a thong, designed to feel like a spa shoe by integrating the principles of reflexology and ergonomics. Today the line has expanded to include dozens of styles and colors adorned with natural seashell, gemstones and ribbon, without compromising on comfort. Massage beads pamper the foot and promote good posture. OKA b.s are also made using a single piece of proprietary Microplast® material and are antimicrobial, waterproof and washable. My personal favorite, the Malia, comes in fun metallic colors, has cute crystals and will definitely be your new summer staple.

Visit http://www.shoesthatloveyou.com to learn more about the unique company and to buy yourself a pair of OKA b.’s today.

A Skinny story:
It seems no one wants to drink just “regular” water these days, as supped up versions are popping up all over. Since I’m usually against drinking my days worth of calories to hydrate, I tend to stay away from the sugary, electrolyte pumped waters, yet it just so happens that my prayers have been answered for a zero calorie, zero sugar, zero preservative water, and its called Skinny Water.

Skinny Water provides you with a convenient, accessible and flexible way to get the water and nutrients needed each day. The idea behind Skinny Water is that when you experience how much better you feel when you get more nutrients and hydration, you will likely seek out additional sources of good nutrition and better health practices. The Skinny Water flavor is from natural flavors found in fruits and vegetables. There is ZERO sugar in Skinny Water and they use a very small amount of Sucralose and Ace-K as sweeteners.

The fun, fruity flavors of Skinny Water include:

• Wakeup: A blend of Orange, Cranberry and Tangerine, containing Vitamin C, Calcium and Potassium.

• Total-V: A blend of Lemonade and Passion fruit, containing Vitamins B3, B5, B6, B12 + C and Vitamin A.

• Crave Control: A blend of Raspberry and Pomegranate, containing Key Metabolizers, like EGCG.

• Shape: A Goji Fruit punch, containing vitamins D-Ribose, L-Leucine and L-Valine.

• Hi-Energy: A blend of Acai, Grape an Blueberry, containing Acai Extract, Guarana, Ginseng, L-Carnitine and Vitamins B3, B6, B12.

• XXX Detox: A blend of Peach, Mango and Mandarin, containing Hesperidine and antioxidants.

Visit http://www.skinnywater.com to learn more and to purchase it online for your home or office. Skinny Water is also available at Target, ShopRite and Stop & Shop.

Just spray it:
Unglamorous to say the least, but chaffing is a common part of many grueling workouts and can lead to a less than pleasant feeling afterwards. I had my worst “friction” incident after a half marathon in which my v-neck shirt left me with awful, painful cuts on my chest/neck. It has since healed but I’m now careful to spray any such areas with a skin lubricant beforehand, my new favorite being TRISLIDE. TRISLIDE is an innovative anti-friction, anti-chafing product in a continuous spray that provides unbeatable ease, comfort and freedom of movement in competition, training or just your everyday workouts.

Other skin lubricants that are packaged in roll-ons or sticks can contribute to bacteria build-up, and so TRISLIDE is more sanitary as it sprays on evenly with one press to render a silky emollient feel to skin. Some common uses for TRISLIDE are to prevent blistering on runners’ feet, general chafing from shorts and certain tops, as well as for easy entry into wetsuits. TRISLIDE is easy to use, safe to share, fragrance-free, will not stain clothes, will not melt or crumble, and lasts on the skin for hours (simple soap and water will rinse off the product).

TRISLIDE is available in over 650 outlets, sporting goods chains and specialty stores nationwide. Visit http://www.triswimbeauty.com for more information and to find a store near you that sells the product.

The Decleor Paris Men Skincare line is rife with the finest ingredients to maintain healthy skin. Men can start with the exfoliating Clean Skin Scrub to refine and exfoliate skin, then follow with 100% pure, preservative-free Aromessence Triple Action Shave Perfector serum with eucalyptus and clove essential oils for a clean shave. Smooth Shave foam for sensitive skin and Express Shave gel-to-foam are other shaving options for faster cell renewal. Top the skincare regime off with moisturizers and skin protectors such as Skin Energizer with essential oils (which smells fantastic), Soothing After Shave for sensitive skin with no preservatives, and Eye Contour Energiser to soften fine lines. Gird yourself for battle against aging lines with these anti-aging weapons, and your skin will know sweet victory. Find them at http://www.decleor.com and fine department stores.

Ole Henriksen is another man-friendly brand, with products that work for all skin types. Sheer Transformation is a creamy, oil-free satin froth infused with vitamin C, sweet pea and licorice root to repair and hydrate. On The Go Cleanser is a regenerating, vitamin-c enriched balm, and the Walnut Complexion Scrub brightens, deep-cleans and deeply exfoliates skin. The Ole Henriksen Men’s Kit is perfect for travel, and includes the uber-effective Natural Hair Wash. This is highly recommended for when called to covert spy duty on a moment’s notice – you’ll need to look polished. Visit http://www.olehenriksen.com and choose your favorites.

The new Origins Zero Oil deep pore cleanser caters to both genders and all ages, including teens. Saw Palmetto and Mint render this product refreshing and unique, and salicylic acid clears pores and reduces shine. Follow this very thorough cleanser with Origins’ Zero Oil moisture lotion, which contains with the same refreshing mint and saw palmetto blend, and you’ll be good to go anywhere. Peruse the extensive Origins for Men section at http://www.origins.com.

Everyone loves Kiehl’s, and for good reason: the products never fail to satisfy. Men, you’ll relish the Kiehl’s Cross-Terrain All-In-One Refueling Wash, which is an invigorating shower cleanser for both hair and body – perfect for at the gym, when traveling on an adventure or trek, or to refresh all over at home after a long, hot summer day in the city. Visit Kiehl’s on Third Avenue between 13th and 14th Streets, or on the Upper West Side at Columbus Avenue between 66th and 67th Streets, or online at http://www.kiehls.com.

At first glance, a hula-hoop, tug of war rope and a rousing game of duck duck goose did not seem challenging enough to achieve my fitness goals. But, one intense game of Blob Tag and you’ll be like me, looking for the nearest park bench to catch your breath and prepare yourself for the rest of the class. Recess was designed to bring a sense of play and fun back into your workout routine. Detention, on the other hand, was created because sometimes you need a “Stern Principal” to help whip you into shape. Stephen Divenere is the mastermind and lead trainer of fitness is your friend. He designed this to get people out of the gym, into the great outdoors and experience what it’s like to revisit childhood.

These hot new classes are currently located at Verdugo Park in Burbank and Roxbury Park in Beverly Hills but are so popular that new locations are currently in the works. Private and corporate events are also available. However you chose to participate, laughter and fun are mandatory parts of the curriculum. fitness is your friend is a great way to make working out seem less like homework and more of an event.

For more details and to sign up for classes go to http://www.fitnessisyourfriend.com

Tracy Anderson has become a bit of a phenomenon in the last two years. We at BNLA have been following her closely because everyone she trains, from celebrities to us mortals, looks phenomenal.

I personally was thrilled at the chance to attend Tracy’s master class at her Studio City location. I got a first-hand experience of the “method” she has developed.  Her approach is to go after your small accessory muscles and work to tighten them with high repetition specialized sculpting exercises. She believes that building the structure by pulling and lengthening the muscle is the key to building our infrastructure.

Muscles get pulled in tight to the bone and skin smoothes out, which explains why everyone doing her workout looks graceful and conditioned. Tracy insists that we combine dance aerobics cardio with training. She feels that the dance aerobics burns the right amount of calories, but makes a powerful mind- body connection.

I’m a disciple after attending the 2 hour sweat-a-thon where I got a chance to speak to Ms. Anderson. Her commitment to what she does is crystal clear. 

“I have been working at creating this approach for 11 years. I have not deviated – only continually improved it,” Tracy told us.

She trains her staff rigorously and regularly. The studio is the ideal setting to incorporate her methods, as it provides more opportunities to keep tripping up your muscle groups with bands, machines, mats, and several other tricks keep your muscles guessing.

If you don’t live in NY or LA by either of the Tracy Anderson studios, her DVD’s are available at tracyandersonmethod.com.

That fresh, crisp scent of autumn is in the air. But as the mercury drops and the days get shorter, the risk of catching a cold or flu increases.

The key to staying healthy as the season changes is prevention. Check out the below all-natural ways to strengthen your immune system and prepare it for the cold and flu season ahead.

The ABC’s of Vitamins

Vitamins B and C, as well as minerals such as Zinc and selenium are important for helping our body deal with stress, fight free radicals and maintain a healthy immune system. Taking a daily multi-vitamin can help ensure we are receiving adequate levels of these important vitamins and minerals, especially for those of us who are super-busy and unable to get our daily recommended intake from the food we’re eating.

(fish oil pills may look eerie, but the benefits are ten-fold!)

Not So Fishy Fish Oil

Fish oil is another fantastic fall formula. The Omega 3’s in fish oil help our bodies reduce inflammation, flush toxins and maintain immune balance – all things that have a positive impact on our health. A brand we recommend is Nordic Naturals. Not only does their fish oil taste great, but the company also tests their oil for purity to ensure there are no heavy metals or toxins in any of its products.

Tea Temptations

If you find yourself under the covers because you’re under the weather, it is important to stay hydrated. Drinking lots of fluids such as water and herbal teas makes the thin mucous secretions easier to get rid of. According to recent research, tea has the ability to boost and strengthen the immune system as well as prevent cell damage, both of which improve the body’s ability to fight disease and infection.

A great tea choice when feeling sick is Organic Ginger tea; which helps cleanse the body and minimize the severity of a cold. Ginger helps to increase perspiration, which in turn helps to reduce the temperature of a fever. Plus, herbal teas do not contain caffeine, so the water from this drink is beneficial to the body as well.

All Washed Up

Health Professionals recommend preventing the common cold through regular hand washing. When a family member is sick, everyone in the house should be washing their hands even more than usual. For those times when soap and water is out of reach, a bottle of hand sanitizer can do the trick.

Conventional hand sanitizers may use chemicals and harsh alcohols to kill germs. However, we found a brand that is non-toxic, alcohol free and leaves your hands feeling soft. It’s called Clean Well and it’s a hand sanitizer that kills 99.99% of germs and is made from essential plant oils including oregano and thyme.

Oregano Oil – Not Your Everyday Spice

Oregano Oil is one of my favorite “home remedy” cold and flu tools. An extract from one of the most powerful species of the oregano plant, this is not your everyday store-bought spice. This variety differs from the herb in your kitchen cupboard as it possesses potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal and antimicrobial properties.

There are more than 50 known active ingredients in the oregano plant that work synergistically to provide its benefits and it has been proven to be effective in fighting fungal and bacterial infections. A brand we really like is North American Herb and Spice. They offer a whole line of oregano products from sinus relievers to inflammatory reducers.

For more information on staying healthy during this cold and flu season, visit http://www.NaturallySavvy.com.

Andrea Donsky, a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (R.H.N.), is co-founder of NaturallySavvy.com, a site that aides in demystifying all things natural and organic, and demonstrating how easy it is to make smart purchasing decisions that will have a direct positive impact on overall health and wellness.

Exhale Spa Gift Set – Just in time for the holidays, Exhale Spa is bringing their popular fitness workout—Core Fusion—to DVD format giving people the opportunity to continue Exhale’s transformational mind body class experience at home. The gift includes: two DVDs featuring the two most popular classes, Core Fusion Body Sculpt and Core Fusion Pilates Plus, one pair of grippy socks, an Exhale-branded water bottle, and a Core Fusion exercise and stretching strap, all packaged in a super cute eco-friendly Exhale workout bag.

(Not sure what Core Fusion is? Check out BN writer, Ava Mackenzie’s article describing her experience at Exhale Spa NYC.)

Deluxe Hoopnotica Starter Kit – Hula hooping as a workout has been on the rise for a few years now and with Hoopnotica’s claim that their Hoopnotic Hoopdance can burn as many calories as running, why not gift your calorie-conscious gym rats with the Hoopnotica Starter Kit? The travel-friendly kit consists of a TravelHoop, two hoopdance DVDs and two CDs, a coordinating hoop strap, and a hoop tote.

iMuffs – iMuffs by Wi-Gear are sleek, ergonomically-designed wireless headphones that work with iPods and BT phones and provide great stereo sound. The control panel on the headphones lets users pause, change volume, skip tracks, and seek music right from the headphones. And when paired to your BT phone, you can pause the music and answer incoming calls. The perfect gift for those irritated by wires getting in the way of a workout.

Manduka Yoga Mat –Whether she’s an “upward facing dog” expert or a novice, you can never go wrong with gifting your fave gal pal with a yoga mat. Along with the body and mind perks of yoga, Manduka mats have a lifetime guarantee, which means you’re helping the environment by reducing consumption, all while distressing and detoxifying your inner self. Plus, the quality of these mats is seriously unsurpassed, making them a solid piece of equipment for all yogis, new and old.

Totes with Quotes –ECOBAGS® offers the perfect holiday gift accessory item. Introducing, “Totes with Quotes”. These Fair Wage/Fair Labor, eco-friendly reusable bags are stylish, affordable and hip!  
With totes featuring sayings like “Get Hip Get Green”, “Think Global Act Local”, “Talk Green to Me”, “Make Love Not Carbon”, and many more; there is sure to be a bag for everyone including the rocker, the activist, the eco-aware, the mother and the truly chic.

We at BeautyNewsLA are always eager to hear about the latest diet products and as beauty buffs, we found the notion of scent playing a part in our diet habits fascinating. The Sensa weight loss system is different than the trendy fad diets, pills and shakes we are so used to hearing about. We believe we might have finally found something that is not only sensible and effective, but surprisingly practical.

Dr. Alan Hirsch, founder of Sensa, has done substantial research in the weight loss field, and after extensive testing with thousands of patients, came up with a plan to help people manage the way they eat. Dr. Hirsch honed his investigation to focus on the well-known connection between smell, taste and hunger. This research led him to find that when eating foods that emit a stronger scent, the brain will automatically send a ‘full’ signal to the stomach. This research led Dr. Hirsch to create the now-celebrated product known as Sensa.

Sensa works like no other weight loss aid on the market. The little white box filled with Sensa shakers comes to your house with a user-friendly DVD. The first thing the DVD instructs is that while using Sensa, there is no need for a diet change or a strenuous exercise program. Sensa is based around a proven aid for portion control – one of the main causes for weight problems in adults. The product consists of Tastant crystals that are sprinkled on everything you eat. From meals to snacks to desserts, the Tastants help you realize when you are full faster, and gradually help to curb over-eating tendencies. When eating with Sensa, we became more aware of what we were ingesting. You are supplied with two sides in each Tastant shaker – one for sweet foods (desserts, cereal and pastries) and one for salty foods (meat, fish and vegetables). The ‘sprinkles’ have absolutely no taste or flavor – nor do they contain any sodium, sugar, calories or gluten. We noticed that they actually enhance the taste of the food.

In one of the largest studies of non-prescription weight loss systems, men and women participants lost an average of 30 pounds in 6 months using Sensa. We’re hopeful that after six months on the program, we too will be as successful. The system is a great jump start tool for effective and safe weight-loss. Even though we all seem to be cynical by nature around here, Sensa actually has us biting our tongues – and for once, we’re happy to do so.

Check it out at www.trysensa.com.

I’m thankful beyond words that my children are healthy and that I’m able to play tag, ride bikes and hike through Central Park with them when the leaves are changing. – Metro Mama Editor, Bonnie Kim Taylor

I’m thankful that I found an online meal planner (mealmixer.com) that’s encouraging me to eat healthier, cook more often, and spend less money on food. – Writer, Joyce Hughes

I’m thankful for the excellent health that my husband and I are so fortunate to have. And I’m thankful for all the family and friends in my life who are wonderfully loving and supportive, and encourage me to get to the gym. – Candice Sabatini, Editorial Director and Skin Care Editor

I’m thankful that my extremely health-conscious boyfriend introduced me to the wonderful world of GREENS – not the fake iceberg ones, the REAL ones! Eating greens like spinach and kale on a daily basis not only makes your diet much healthier – it’s also wonderfully satisfying and delicious – you’ll become addicted. –Hair Care Editor, Kelly Hushin

I’m thankful for the lap pool at the Y. It keeps me fit and sane. – Writer, Yelena Moroz

I am thankful that I’ve added more fruits and vegetables to my daily intake and that I’ve stuck to drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day for the third year in a row! I am also thankful that I started taking multi-vitamins and drinking healthy green tea instead of sugary energy drinks to help fuel my extremely active lifestyle! – Beauty Editor, Amy Sciarretto

I’m thankful for my amazing S Factor class/instructor that gave me the “guns” I’ve always wanted, plus a new found swagger in my walk, born out of confidence in my movements. – Writer, Bryce Longton

I’m thankful for my 6th floor walk-up that I live on which equates to forced exercise. – Writer, Anne Jones

I’m thankful for having a much healthier body image than I’ve had in years. These days, instead of feeling self-conscious and frustrated about my flaws, I take pride in the parts of my body I love, including my curves and strong newly toned muscles! – Editorial Director and Health & Fitness Editor,
Jasmin Guleria

I’m thankful for being fortunate enough to work with an amazing group of women (and men) over the past 6 years of Beauty News. I consider you all to be like family, and wish each of you a wonderful holiday season. – EIC/Publisher, Kimberly McDonald

(Unflattering before pic)

(Looking good after donning FLABuLESS!)

(The Veston shrug)

Let’s face it, not all of us are blessed with Jessica Biels’ toned triceps. Introducing, FLABuLESS, the first arm shapewear of its kind. Simply pull on this tight sleeve before donning your top of the day, and any embarrassing sagging or bulging skin is immediately smoothened leaving you with the appearance of trim triceps every woman dreams of! FLABuLESS comes in 4 varieties, including the Veston, which functions as a shrug to provide a slim appearance and coverage over your sleeveless dress or sexy tank. To purchase your own secret slimmer, go to www.flabulessu.com. (don’t worry, your secret is safe with us!)

For those of us worried about our cellulite-happy hip and thigh area, Skineez Skincarewear is the perfect 2 for 1 solution. Not only does this product minimize the appearance of unattractive bulges and bumps that may appear overtop those hip-hugging dresses and pencil skirts we all love, but Skineez actually embeds cosmetic ingredients into its garments that have been shown to reduce the appearance of cellulite and actually help to lose inches around the thighs and the waist! Sound like hocus pocus? Well, Europeans have been raving for quite some time about this sensation and clinical trials show proven results! If you’re not interested in wearing Skineez underneath your clothes, the brand even has an Activewear line for the workout lover in all of us. Swing by your local Macy’s and grab a pair of these European sensations!

With holiday cooking, shopping, and partying, it’s no shock that our workouts may take a backseat to our need to rest and recuperate for the next big event. Perk yourself up for a cardio session by downing a bottle of Vital Action Performance Water. This 45-calorie energy drink is equipped with supplements to specifically target the four stages of performance: energy, stamina, immunity, and recovery. Plus, unlike other leading enhancement waters that contain as much sugar and sodium as a soda, VAPW is the first beverage in the United States to utilize the innovative Fruit Up® Premium tactic, which uses 100% blended clear fruit, such as apples and grapes. This sweetening system is free of chemical processing and has an extremely low glycemic index. Now there’s no excuse for skimping on your workouts during the holiday! If you’re a New Yorker, you can pick up at almost any grocery store, including Food Emporium and Associated Supermarkets. Otherwise, keep checking their website to see when this power drink is available at a store near you.

It’s no doubt that champagne, wine, and complimentary cocktails are the drinks holiday merriment are made of, but unfortunately toast after toast can end up leading to pound upon pound that’ll leave you struggling to fit into that tight curve-hugging New Years dress you had your heart set on. Skip the calorie-laden martinis for a glass or two of wine and you should be able to ring in the New Year sexily clad. If you know you’ll be imbibing later in the evening, stick to water and low-cal drinks during the day. We love TeaZazz’ Sparkling Green Tea Mint. With the antioxidants and caffeine properties of green tea, the refreshing taste of mint, and just the right amount of carbonation, this 25 calorie drink will leaving you feeling refreshed, guilt-free, and satisfied!

To order TeaZazz or find a distributor near you check out: www.drinkteazazz.com/get-teazazz.html

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and to toast the remarkable women in our lives who have fought – and still fight – this terrifying disease with courage and grace; we’ve prepared a cocktail of cutting edge info to help you continue the cause. So, without further adieu, we give you the new:

Treatment Hot Spot

Last month, Manhattan Diagnostic Radiology’s Women’s Imaging Division became the first place in NYC to offer an advanced technology called PEM (Positron Emission Mammography) from Naviscan. PEM is much more refined than the Mammography equipment currently being used by most other facilities (it can detect a tumor the size of a grain of rice) and can therefore catch the cancer even earlier, a crucial fact considering the current 98 percent survival rate for women who detect breast cancer in its earliest stage.

(A doctor performing a PEM on a patient)

“We recently received prestigious designation as a Breast Imaging Center of Excellence from the American College of Radiology acknowledging our commitment to providing the highest level of breast care to our patients,” said Senior Partner and Director Craig H. Sherman in a recent Dateline interview. Also at the forefront of the field in spot compression, ultrasound, and breast MRI technology, there is no better place than MDR to get the annual mammography recommended to all women.

Test to Take

In September, the Mayo Clinic of medical research released promising results for a new method of breast cancer detection called MBI, or molecular breast imaging. Unlike mammography, MBI scans the patient from the inside out. A shot of a “tracer” that collects in abnormal cells is given, which “glows” under a radiation scan. This precise method can pinpoint bad areas missed by mammograms.

MBI is still being developed and therefore more costly and complex, therefore it is not currently recommended over mammography for the average woman. However, it could be a life-saver for women with dense breast tissue – a condition which increases with age and makes accurate mammography difficult. If you are one of these women, make sure to ask about getting an MBI.

Question to Ask

They’re still tough to find, but a growing number of breast cancer surgeons have acquired the skills to do reconstructive surgery at the same time they perform the cancer removal – saving women a trip to the cosmetic surgeon and a lot of anxiety about returning to normal life after cancer. The procedure (called oncoplastic surgery) is a lot less expensive than the combined cost of cancer and cosmetic surgery. It is mostly for women undergoing a lumpectomy (also called partial mastectomy), which only removes a portion of the breast, and usually involves a restructuring of both breasts with the remaining tissue to ensure a slightly smaller but natural-looking bust line.

So how do you find out if your doctor is capable of such marvelous feats? There isn’t yet a profession certification for oncoplastic surgeons, so it’s best to ask a lot of questions about your surgeon’s cosmetic experience and skill. Also, some cancer surgeons pair with a plastic surgeon that completes the latter part of the surgery.

And in case you’re still on the fence about asking, keep this in mind. According to a study conducted by plastic surgeon Amy K. Alderman of the University of Michigan Medical School, only a third of breast cancer patients are asked by their cancer surgeon about reconstruction options before the surgery. Don’t let yourself become a part of this tragic statistic – just ask!

Food for Thought

Studies connecting healthy vitamin D levels to lowered breast cancer risk have abound for the last several years, but this summer the Moores Cancer Center at University of California, San Diego released the first study using global cancer analysis data to show a significantly data-backed connection between good vitamin D levels and reduced breast cancer risk. To be specific, it’s the D3 type of the “sunshine vitamin” that seems to have such glowing potential.

D3 is formed naturally by the body when it is exposed to sunlight, and can also be found in fatty fish (like salmon, tuna and sardines) and eggs. Although milk is usually fortified with vitamin D, it is not a good primary source for getting your daily value, plus not all milk is fortified with D3 (check the label). In terms of soaking up the sun, getting just 15 minutes of direct sunshine a day should be enough to produce your daily recommended D3 – so don’t skimp on sunscreen for long outdoor days. Those with dark complexions may want to consider a supplement (again, check multi-vitamin labels for D3, it can be tough to find).