We are often exposed to sunlight for a long period of time. This can be harmful to our skin, which may lead to skin cancer. Thus, protecting the skin from the sun becomes important; Sun protection is not just a precaution; It is a vital aspect of maintaining skin health and general well-being.
For this reason, the use of sunscreens and sunscreen lotions has become widespread. whether in the form of sprays or creams; It has become a staple in our daily skincare routine. They work by creating a protective barrier on the skin that absorbs or reflects harmful UV rays, preventing them from penetrating and damaging the sensitive subcutaneous layers.
According to a research study published in the well-known scientific journal “JAMA Dermatology”, young people who use sunscreen continuously suffer from a significant decrease in the possibility of skin cancer.
Similarly, results of another study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology showed that regular sunscreen application provides protective benefits against skin cancer for adults.
And while sunscreens play a crucial role in protecting us, another often overlooked line of defense is the foods we eat.
Nature has provided us with many edible elements that can act as a natural sunscreen and maintain our skin’s defense against UV damage, according to a report published by the specialized medical website “onlymyhealth”.
These foods contain compounds that have UV-blocking properties, which helps protect your skin from the inside out.
Here are some foods that you can use as a natural sunscreen.
tomatoes
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that gives them their vibrant red colour. Lycopene has been shown to neutralize harmful free radicals caused by exposure to UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn and skin aging.
Incorporating tomatoes into your diet, whether in salads or fresh slices, can provide a nice boost to your skin’s natural defenses.
Leafy vegetables
Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are packed with nutrients like beta-carotene and lutein.
And according to Nutrients magazine, they offer protection against wrinkles, sun damage, and even skin cancer.
berries
Raspberries, as well as strawberries, are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins. These antioxidants have been linked to reducing skin damage caused by UV rays, which helps maintain skin elasticity and suppleness.
You can have a handful of berries as a snack to protect your skin.
Green tea
Green tea contains catechins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and photoprotective effects.
A study published in the journal “Nutrients” indicated that regular consumption of green tea can enhance the skin’s resilience to UV damage and support its natural healing processes.
carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, a compound that the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A plays a pivotal role in skin health, helping to repair damaged skin tissue and protecting against UV-related cell mutations.
While applying sunscreen topically remains essential to protecting your skin from the outside, incorporating sunscreen foods into your diet can provide a comprehensive way to protect your skin from the inside.
2023-08-27 12:35:54
#Foods #act #natural #sunscreen
