More surprising foods that help protect your skin from sun damage
Cheryl Dacey
Franchise Development Director @ facial collective | Certified Business Coach | Team Leader
You were waiting for me to post these, right? Apologies for the delay, now here are more food that help protect your skin:
Fruits High In Vitamin C
Studies show that vitamin C can prevent cancer cells from forming within the body and can boost collagen production in the skin, leading to tauter skin and delayed aging symptoms. The three fruits highest in vitamin C are strawberries, oranges and kiwi, with kiwi being the true all-star. Per ounce, kiwis have more vitamin C than any other fruit! Side note: there's tons of fiber in the skin, so don't be afraid to bite in like an apple.
Green Tea
Green tea, as well as black tea, is high in polyphenols found to protect against UV radiation. Brewing a cup of green tea or sipping an iced blend with citrus and fruits is a great way to get some cancer-fighting antioxidants and anti-aging benefits to keep skin firm, healthy and beautiful. Drinking two or more cups daily may reduce your risk of skin cancer by 30 percent. Cheers to that!
Broccoli
Broccoli, as well as other cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, cabbage and bok choy, contains a property called sulphoraphane, which has been shown to provide anti-cancerous benefits and can protect skin cells from free radical, sun damage. Enjoy broccoli as a side with fish or toss in a breakfast omelet. Adding in these veggies is easy and delicious.
Foods High Omega 3s
Omega 3 fatty acids have been found to do wonders for the skin. Besides keeping skin taut, glowing and acne-free, they can also offer sun protection. Studies show that consuming omega 3s, especially in the form of fish oil supplements, can lower risk of skin cancer and keep skin safe from the sun and its free radicals. Eat salmon, walnuts, hemp, flax and chia seeds, and lettuce, such as romaine, for great benefits.
Red Delicious Apples
An apple a day can keep your skin healthy and sun-damage free. However, only if you eat the skin! Research shows that certain compounds in the skin, called triterpenoids, can block cancer cells and thus lower risk of disease. Eating red delicious apples whole, throwing them in a smoothie, using as a base for nut butter, or slicing them for a cheese sandwich or atop a salad, are terrific ways to utilize this prime fruit.
Watermelon
Watermelon is not only hydrating and refreshing in the heat, but it is also packed with vitamins A and C, as well as lycopene, which has been shown to protect cells from UV damage. "One cup of cubed watermelon is an excellent source of the antioxidant Vitamin C and Vitamin A," says dietician Toby Amidor, MS, RD, an advocate for WTRMLN WTR, over email with Bustle. "Further, it is also brimming with the antioxidant lycopene, which is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage," she continues.
Almonds
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, sunflower seeds and pistachios, are high in vitamin E, which can protect cells from sun damage and keep skin soft, clear and blemish-free. The healthy, monounsaturated fats founds in almonds can also keep skin less inflamed and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, which can occur from the aging process. Eating a handful or tossing in a salad or smoothie can delay aging and offer great protection.
While there's no excuse to not apply (and re-apply!) sunscreen, consuming foods high in sun-protecting properties can make your skin look fabulous and keep your cells healthy and strong. Avoiding sun damage and lowering risk of skin cancer is so important, as aging can really hurt us long-term if we are not careful with our bodies. Enjoy the beautiful sunshine, but stay safe in the process.
(Credit: https://www.bustle.com/articles/170712-13-surprising-foods-that-can-protect-you-from-sun-skin-damage)