Going to the beach on the weekend can either make you feel rejuvenated and replenished, or burnt and red.
If you end up being burnt and red, that’s because you were out on the sun too much and it was too much for the body to handle. Be careful though, sunburn has the capability to cause skin cancer and premature aging.
As important as using sunscreen when enjoying those summer days, sunburn prevention can start with what you eat.
Did you know that food can help you cure and prevent sunburn?
Yes, that’s true. Common foods in our kitchen possess sun-protection contents to aid our sun-protection routine. The right foods in your diet can offer you protection from sunburn.
- Almonds
Regularly eating almonds, which are rich in vitamin E, can protect the skin from sunlight and allows for fiber, omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids to build. Almond oil and almond milk are popular aids used against damage from UV rays that help keep your skin smooth and soft. Sometimes, sunscreen ingredients even include almonds in it.
- Carrots
Studies have shown that eating carotenoid-rich foods, such as carrots, help to protect our skin against sunburn. Carrots have powerful antioxidant compounds that help maintain healthy skin and prevent many diseases. Carrots also act against the age-accelerating free radicals so that skin remains healthy. If consumed regularly as a part of a person’s rotation diet, carrots can increase protection from sun damage.
- Green Tea
Green tea has catechin compounds – these compounds help protect against the sun’s harmful radiation. Experts suggest that drinking just two cups a day could help provide a bit of added sun protection. Drinking green tea has the potential to alleviate the damage brought on by sunburns and excessive exposure to UV rays.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes, being rich in lycopene, have been shown to help in the protection against some UV-induced skin. Tomatoes have also been linked to reduce reactions to sunburn. Tomatoes also look cute as beach side snack, too! Indulge in fresh tomatoes and add organic ketchup to meals for a lycopene burst.
- Watermelon
The summer fruit, Watermelon! The nutrients found in watermelon can contribute to the health of our skin. Watermelon, like tomato, is rich in lycopene. This is why it’s great choice to defend your skin from sunburn and even the possibility of developing skin cancer.
Just as unhealthy food has a negative effect on skin and overall health, certain foods can offer protection from various health problems, including sun-related ones. Even though these foods are included in your diet, it’s still best to wear sunscreen. Think of these foods as more shields and protection from the sun.