Friday, July 31, 2009

SUNGLASSES SAVVY

Ultraviolet rays can increase the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. The most protective sunglasses are large-framed, close-fitting, and wraparound. Look for a label that say "blocks 99-100% of UVA and UVB rays" or "absorbs up to 400 nm of UV radiation."

Tint is mainly a matter of preference. Darker lenses don't necessarily provide more protection.

Polarized block light waves that align in horizontal patterns when reflecting off flat surfaces, so they're useful for driving, skiing, and fishing.

Mirror coating is derived from thin layers of metal coating ordinary lenses and doesn't automatically convey UVA/UVB protection.

Blue blocking are amber-colored lenses that protect eyes from blue visible light, to which the retina may be more sensitive.

Impact resistant is a requirement of the Food and Drug Administration for all sunglasses to survive an impact test without fracturing but not to be shatterproof.

Polycarbonate is a plastic that resists impact especially well.

Photochromic lenses lighten or darken in response to sunlight's intensity.
Sources: American Academy of Ophthalmology, Consumer Reports

Saturday, July 18, 2009

HOW TO CAN CELL-PHONE SPAM

The 2005 Can-Spam Act prohibits commercial e-mail and text messages from being sent to cell phones without "express prior authorization." But the law has loopholes. Your carrier and its partners can send offers, and charities and campaigns can send you messages on your dime. Cell-phone owners who don't have a text-messaging plan might have to pay up to 20 cents for each unwanted message. Here's how to can that spam:

1. Act fast. Call your carrier as soon as you receive spam; don't wait until several dozen pile up. And fill out the Federal Communications Commission Form 1088G (www.fcc.gov) or call the FCC at 888-225-5322.

2. Block spam at the source. Go to your cell account online and access your e-mail or messaging preferences, then activate the setting that blocks messages over the Internet. Some carriers let you block only certain messages, allowing you to keep those from your bank, for example.

3. Register your cell at www.donotcall.gov to block telemarketers.

4. Avoid some downloads. Ring tones and games from third-party vendors could lead to spam, fraudulent charges, or identity theft.
Source: Consumer Reports

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

QUIZ: HOW MUCH DOES YOUR WEIGHT DEPEND ON YOUR GENES?

To find out, answer yes or no to each question:

Section A

1. I have been overweight for much of my life.

2. One or both of my parents, or several other blood relatives, are significantly overweight.

3. I can't lose weight even when I faithfully stick to a reducing diet and increase my activity for several months.

Section B

1. I am strongly tempted by the availability of food.

2. I'm moderately overweight, but I can lose weight when I diet and exercise.

3. I tend to gain weight easily if I don't follow a healthy diet.

Section C

1. I've never really been overweight.

2. I can eat almost anything I want and not gain weight.

3. I don't exercise much, and my weight stays normal.

Scoring: If you answered yes to two or more statements in Section A, genes are probably a significant contributor to your weight issues. For people with very strong genetic predisposition, sheer willpower can be tough in counteracting the tendency to be overweight. But you can achieve and maintain weight loss under a doctor's guidance.

If you answered yes to two or more statements in Section B, genes are probably a lower contributor for you. While you have some genetic predisposition to be heavy, it's not so great that you can't overcome it with some effort devoted to diet and exercise.

If you answered yes to two or more statements in Section C, your genetic predisposition to obesity is low. You have a good chance of losing weight by eating fewer calories and getting more vigorous exercise. It may also be easier for you to keep it off. Ask your doctor for weight loss help.
Source: Nancy Snyderman MD, Diet Myths That Keep Us Fat

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