Q&A

Is indoor tanning safer than sunbathing?

There’s nothing safe about tanning, period. Just like the sun, tanning beds give off ultraviolet (UV) rays that penetrate deep into the skin, causing damage that can lead to wrinkling, age spots and skin cancer. In fact, the UV rays emitted by some tanning lamps are 15 times stronger than those from the sun. And studies show that people who use tanning beds before age 35 may increase their risk for deadly skin cancer by 75 percent.

If you’re not content with your skin’s natural hue, sunless tanning lotions are available. They give the look of a tan without the harmful UV rays.

Before spending time outside, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

Is a raw food diet healthy?

Raw food diets usually consist of uncooked and unprocessed fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and grains. These diets may also include raw and unprocessed dairy products, meat and fish. The theory is that cooking food breaks down enzymes that our bodies need to absorb nutrients. But our bodies produce all the enzymes we need.

As with many fad diets, this one has problems. Avoiding certain foods may make it hard to get all the nutrients you need. Also, eating certain types of raw foods can cause illness unless selected and prepared with care. For the best nutrition, follow a low-fat, high-fiber diet that includes all the major food groups. If you have questions about healthy eating, talk with your doctor. You can also visit www.cdc.gov/nutrition.

Is cheerleading dangerous
for my high school daughter?

As cheerleading has become more competitive, it has evolved to include risky gymnastic stunts, such as pyramids, and now accounts for 65 percent of catastrophic athletic injuries to high school girls. In 2007 alone there were more than 74,000 cheerleading injuries.

To help keep cheerleaders safe, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends thorough training in spotting techniques, using floor mats instead of hard surfaces, and constant supervision by an experienced coach. The American Association of Cheerleading Coaches and Administrators provides detailed safety guidelines and also recommends strength-training, conditioning and flexibility exercises to help prevent injuries. They offer a parents’ guide to cheerleading safety at www.aacca.org/parents.asp.

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