In this month’s Cloud Nine, we’ll combine Food and Fashion as we learn about 5 Sun Protection Boosting Foods.
Summer is here and that means it’s time to talk about Sun Care again. So, I thought I’d share some foods that can help protect your skin from UV damage.
1. Grapes
Grapes contain flavonoids that can help reduce the sun’s UV rays from damaging the skin. For a sweet refreshing summertime treat remove some grapes from the stems and store them in the freezer. They make a cool healthy snack on a hot sunny day.
2. Green and Black Teas
These teas are loaded with polyphenols that have been shown to help stop cancer growth by reducing blood flow to the cancerous cells. Some studies have even found that people who drink a cup of tea daily are known to have a lower occurrence of melanoma. So, that refreshing cup of iced tea is doing some multitasking by not only keeping you well hydrated but helping save your skin as well.
3. Tomatoes
The antioxidant lycopene is known to fight harmful skin-damaging free radicals. Tomatoes are an incredible source of lycopene. So add some extra tomatoes to your salad or better yet since tomato paste is just super concentrated tomatoes add a hearty spoonful to your salad dressing or even some hummus for a flavorful skin saving boost.
4. Omega 3 Rich Fish
Studies have shown that, among other things, foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids may help prevent some forms of skin cancer as well as protect cells from free radical damage. Both tuna and salmon are a fabulous source of Omega 3’s. Check out F3 episode 9 for a tasty recipe for salmon.
5. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits contain limonene, which has been shown to lower the risk of skin cancer significantly. So, that yummy grapefruit and the delicious glass of orange juice you had for breakfast are helping you fight the sun’s harmful effects.
These are obviously not meant to replace sunscreen so remember to apply and reapply it regularly when you are out having fun in the sun. And if you are like me and tend to burn no matter how hard you try we have some Sunburn Relief tips you can check out too.
Tell us which foods on our list are your favorites or share a recipe using some of them with us in the comments section.
If you’re interested in learning more check out these links from Women’s Health Magazine, Science Daily, Huffington Post and Reader’s Digest.
DISCLAIMER: Common Room members are not doctors. Information and/or advice given here is for general use and NOT intended to replace medical care. Please consult your health care provider with all matters relating to your physical and mental well-being, particularly regarding symptoms that may require diagnosis or treatment. Results may vary.
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