Tartrazine is commonly known as Yellow #5 (which its commonly listed as on the ingredient list). It's a coloring that's added to many different types of foods and has been associated with some adverse reactions (especially in children). Some studies have shown that Yellow #5 has been associated with behavior problems in children. It usually affects children with ADHD and a confirmed food allergy. Typically, they will show increased hyperactivity and difficulty paying attention. Yellow #5 is found in a wide variety of foods including Mountain Dew soda, yellow colored vitamins or medications, macaroni and cheese made with powdered cheese, yellow colored candies, and yellow colored cereals. Unlike Yellow #5, diacetyl is a flavoring, not a color. It's used in a wide variety of processed foods and has been associated with a few adverse health effects. Diacetyl is typically found in foods like microwave buttered popcorn, "brown" flavorings like butterscotch or maple, some yogurts, and cheeses. One side effect that has been linked with consumption of foods containing diacetyl is dementia and Alzheimer's disease. Studies have shown that consumption of this chemical can lead to plaque build up in the brain. In addition to dementia, people who breathe in a lot of diacetyl (like sniffing the popcorn they just popped) or those who work in factories that make food containing diacetyl have developed a serious respiratory illness (frequently named "popcorn lung"). Both nitrates and nitrites are a fairly common preservative found in many foods. Many studies have shown that both of these additives can cause a variety of health issues, especially when eaten in large quantities. Both nitrates and nitrites act as preservatives and help foods from going rancid. They're typically found in foods like cheese, deli meats, bacon, ham, sausage, hot dogs, and other smoked or processed meats. If you have a diet high in processed meat, your intake of nitrates and nitrites will be significantly higher. Studies have shown that this increases your risk for cancer (especially esophageal cancer) and heart disease. The reasoning behind this may be that both nitrates and nitrites may have a carcinogenic factor to them which means they may support the growth of cancer cells. Propyl paraben is a preservative found in processed foods and helps to keep foods fresher. This particular preservative is widespread and found in a large quantity of processed foods. Since propyl paraben is so widely used, it is difficult to list every food that it's found in. However, the most common foods include tortillas, breads, muffins, food dyes, and even cosmetics and shampoos. Consumption of propyl parabens has been associated with breast cancer. Studies have been controversial, but propyl parabens act similarly to estrogen in the body. Increased estrogen activity has been linked to breast cancer. Studies have also shown that consumption of propyl parabens has been associated with decreased sperm count and testosterone levels in men. You might recognize the name olestra as an additive. It was very popular when the low-fat and diet foods hit the market. It's a fat substitute and can cause some unpleasant side effects when consumed. Olestra or Olean is typically found in low-fat diet foods. It's used to replace natural sources of fat in favor of a lower calorie and lower fat product. It's commonly found in foods like potato chips, cheese puffs, tortilla chips, crackers, popcorn, and other savory snack foods. One of the issues with olestra is that it interferes with vitamin and mineral absorption in the body. Specifically, it inhibits the absorption of Vitamins A, D, E and K. In addition, one of the most well-known side effects of consuming foods with olestra is the potential to have very loose stools, anal leakage, and general GI distress. Some foods may have some more complicated ingredients listed on their nutrition labels. Companies can call "proprietary blends" such as spice blends or flavor blends on the label without disclosing exactly what's included. A food label may say "proprietary blend" or may say "natural flavors" or "artificial flavors" and have no further explanation. Natural flavors that are added may not be any better than the artificial flavors. Some natural flavors still contain additives like the solvent propylene glycol or the preservative BHA. There haven't been any documented side effects or links to adverse health conditions from proprietary blends, but they're so vague that it's hard to note any connections to health.

Summary: Avoid foods with tartrazine or Yellow #5. Cut out items containing diacetyl. Ditch foods containing nitrates or nitrites. Avoid foods with propyl paraben. Cut out all foods containing olestra. Don't purchase foods with "proprietary" blends of flavors or seasonings.

Among a host of other benefits, regular exercise stimulates the production of NAD, boosts your metabolism, and can improve your body's ability to repair damaged DNA. Most adults should get at least 30 minutes of daily exercise. Aerobic exercise is especially beneficial to your overall health, so try to go for a brisk walk or jog, swim, or cycle every day. If you're not used to physical activity, talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine. You should also consult your doctor if you have a history of heart, bone, joint, or other issues. NAD is involved in metabolic processes and cell production, and alcohol interferes with these processes. It's recommended that men drink less than 2 to 3 alcoholic beverages a day, and for women to consume 1 to 2 drinks or less. If you drink more than your recommended amount, try to reduce your alcohol consumption. UV rays damage skin cells, and your body uses stored NAD to repair the damage. To minimize sun damage, wear SPF 30 sunscreen every day, especially when you're exposed to direct sunlight for more than 15 to 30 minutes.

Summary: Get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. Cut down on alcoholic beverages, if necessary. Wear sunscreen whenever you go outside.

Small chores each night, like tidying up your room, can reduce longer cleaning sessions during the weekend. Cleaning also helps to reduce clutter that can be distracting when you're trying to do your homework or relax. Make sure you have enough time in the afternoon or at night to complete your homework so you don't feel rushed trying to get it done. The amount of time you set aside for homework each day depends on how much homework you have. Exercise is important in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. It also positively influences your mental health by releasing endorphins that improve your self-confidence and mood. Depending on what works best for your schedule, you can exercise in the morning or right after school. Working out can increase your energy level so try to finish your exercise routine at least three hours before bedtime so you have enough time to relax before bed. Exercise can be a good way for you to make time for yourself, but if you had P.E. or sports practice during the day, find another way to help you relax like reading a book, journaling, or socializing with friends and family. A good choice for a typical school day is a nice skirt or a pair of jeans, and a top that you know you will be comfy in and that you can dress up with jewelry and accessories. Look at the weather forecast for the next day and pick your outfit accordingly. If it's going to be cold the next day, make sure to have warm clothing like a coat or scarf set aside. Put the books and the homework you'll need for the next day in your bag. If you have extracurricular activities the next day, make sure what you need is ready to go for the next morning. If you have band practice, make sure you have your instrument packed up and ready for school. If you have sports practice, make sure your athletic equipment is also packed up. Doing these things the night before will save you time in the morning. Look at your agenda or planner to see what you'll need to pack in terms of a sweater, an umbrella, homework, and permission slips. Keeping a good sleep schedule has positive effects on your health and can make you feel better. Don't drink caffeine and make your room as dark as possible. Minimize blue light from electronic screens like your cellphone or computer screen.
Summary: Do your chores. Save time for homework each day. Get some exercise. Make time for yourself. Pick out an outfit the night before. Pack your bag for the next day. Get at least 8-10 hours of sleep.