Rachael Recommends || June 2024
Happy June! We're still summer-themed around here as I share my recommendations for this month. Sunscreen and lemon-flavored collagen were my picks when considering what to share.
Thanks for reading! As always, I hope it is helpful and enhances your life in some way.
Sunscreen
Did you know that your sunscreen may be harmful? In the last issue of Rachael Recommends I expounded on the benefits of sunlight. Indeed there are notable health benefits to getting in the sun daily. However, more research is arising that shows some potential harm in wearing sunscreen. Check out the latest:
According the the EWG (Environmental Working Group) most sunscreens contain toxic chemicals that can have an impact on our health. And most products we apply topically to our skin are readily absorbed into our bodies and blood stream.
EWG did a 2024 analysis on over 1,700 sunscreens, and here's what they share on their findings: "Just one in four sunscreens out of 1,700 SPF products assessed in EWG’s 2024 Guide to Sunscreens meets our standards for ingredient safety and sun protection efficacy." It turns out SPF may not be so reliable either.
It seems that it's best to opt for a mineral based sunscreen over a chemical sunscreen. And, the main "offensive" ingredients to be avoided are oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens and phthalates. When choosing a product this summer, aim to avoid these ingredients. Instead, choose a product that has mineral-based ingredients like zinc oxide. These still provide broad spectrum protection without the toxic and potentially harmful chemicals. Check out some good brands below.
Some safe sunscreen brands:
- Jason
- All Good
- Altitude
- ThinkSport
- Whole Foods Brand 365
- Native (unscented varieties)
- Hello Bello
- Bare Republic
- Beauty for Earth
Rachael's Lemon Collagen Chia Seed Pudding Recipe
This month at Fitness Collective the product highlight is Vital Proteins' Lemon Collagen Peptides. It is a personal favorite of mine as they are oh-so-refreshing on hot summer days! I love mixing it with cool water and ice to make a healthy lemonade for my family and myself.
Unable to get enough of this delicious product, I decided to experiment by adding them to some chia seed pudding. The result was nothing short of delightful. Give it a try and enjoy this fiber-filled, healthy treat as a snack or even as breakfast!
Ingredients:
2 Tablespoons whole organic chia seeds
4 Tablespoons Vital Proteins Lemon Collagen Peptides
2 Tablespoons fresh or frozen organic blueberries
1/2-3/4 Cup unsweetened flax or coconut milk
Instructions:
- Add all ingredients except for milk to a mason jar.
- Add the milk.
- Tighten the lid and shake.
- Store in the fridge for at least 4 hours before enjoying.