Health briefs: Tanning beds a deadly habit for girls

SLEEP IN, THEN RUN THE RACE

Have a hard time rolling out of bed early on a Saturday morning to run a race, even for a good cause? Then you'll like Miles for Men, Morton Plant Mease's prostate cancer awareness race. It's Sept. 7 starting at 6:30 p.m. at Morton Plant Hospital in Clearwater. There's a 5K, 10K and a Kids Dash, and if you sign up by Aug. 31, you get a nice discount. Plus, there's a post-race party with Papa John's pizza and Sea Dog Brewing Company beer. Register at Miles4Men.com.

GIRLS' DEADLY HABIT

If you have a teen who uses a tanning bed, listen up: People who tan indoors before age 35 are up to 75 percent more likely to develop melanoma, the deadliest kind of skin cancer. Girls are particularly prone to this foolishness. JAMA Internal Medicine reports that 29.3 percent of white high school girls went to an indoor tanning parlor at least once a year, and 16.7 percent went "frequently" — at least 10 times in a year. And age apparently doesn't confer wisdom: Nearly as many white women under 35 frequent these places.

COOL OFF WITH WET WORKOUT

Too hot for your usual walk or run? Take your workout to the pool today. The Aquatic Exercise Association says you'll burn 400 to 500 calories per hour when exercising in the water — while stretching and strengthening muscles and not overburdening joints.

SMOKERS, HEAR THIS

Another reason to make friends with broccoli. A small Italian study confirms previous research that this cruciferous vegetable helps fight cancer and the DNA damage caused by smoking. Regular consumption of about a cup of broccoli boosted cell protection in smokers. Brussels sprouts, cabbage, turnips and mustard greens should have the same effect.

Better yet, quit smoking — and enjoy your veggies!

Floral therapy

Feeling blue? Buy yourself flowers. Several studies suggest being around fresh flowers may help relieve depression, decrease anxiety and improve mood, energy and enthusiasm. Pick up an inexpensive bouquet and place a few blooms on your desk, kitchen counter, bedside table. It's a low-cost, zero-calorie pick-me-up.