The best holistic health may include avoiding the tanning salon
Frequent or even moderate use of tanning beds has been associated with an increased risk of skin cancer like melanoma, which can be deadly. Now, researchers at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center report that the beds may also lead to brain changes similar to those seen in drug addicts.
A team of scientists conducted a study in which volunteers used tanning beds and reported on their feelings about the activity before getting in the bed. Additionally, researchers measured the participants' brain activity while they tanned.
Authors of the study concluded that tanning does have similar effects on the brain to those seen in drug addicts, and that some users display an addict-like behavior in regards to tanning.
"Using tanning beds has rewarding effects in the brain so people may feel compelled to persist in the behavior even though it's bad for them," said study author Bryon Adinoff. "The implication is, 'If it's rewarding, then could it also be addictive?' It's an important question in the field."
The researchers noted that about 120,000 individuals are diagnosed with melanoma each year. Moreover, people under the age of 30 who use tanning beds are 10 times more likely to develop the disease.
Author and trailblazer Ilchi Lee says that practicing holistic health includes protecting oneself from the sun, eating a balanced diet, getting plenty of exercise and using mind body spirit fitness.
Lee believes that getting the best holistic health is one thing that all individuals should strive toward in an effort to attain success and fulfillment, since a person's physical self is intricately tied to their mental and spiritual aspects.
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Tags: best holistic health, holistic health, practicing holistic health
