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weetened beverages.... like soda and designer coffees account for most of the increase. It all amounts to an extra 222 calories a day - that's enough to pack on 10 pounds a year. The jury is still out on whether diet beverages can also contribute to weight gain.... so for now experts say it's best to go easy on ALL the sweet stuff.=================================================
Sun Protection For sun protection... your skin needs sunscreen. And new research shows that tomato products may help too. British researchers found that volunteers who *ate tomato paste had 33- percent more protection against sunburn and sun-induced aging. It didn't take a lot of tomato paste either - just about the amount you get on pizza or pasta. Scientists say the lycopene in tomatoes isn't *a replacement for sunscreen, but a good additive.===========================================================
Home Healthcare for the 4-legged There's a new healthcare guide for the 4-legged members of the family. For the first time, there's a Merck-Merial home health manual *for pets.* The book has tips on keeping Fido and friends healthy, taking care of minor problems, and determining when they need a trip to the vet. Dr. Marty Becker, one of the veterinarians who helped write the manual, says the most overlooked part of canine care is dental cleanings. "Owners should take a brush or a cloth, and periodically clean their pet's teeth. It really does cut the buildup of tartar, and helps keep their breath cleaner. It can also make a big difference in their overall health and energy." One special focus is on the 45 million pets moving into their senior years, alongside their baby boomer owners.