Can These Foods Protect You From The Sun?

Can these Foods Protect You from the Sun?

Is it possible to build up your skin’s natural protection against the sun without using topical sunscreen? This is a question that I have always wanted to find out….so with a bit of research here are some very interesting findings.

First of all, what I found is that YES..in fact there are foods that have natural qualities in them that help to protect us from sun damage. The key is getting plenty in your diet so that they can have an effect.

If you truly want to use less sunscreen, I would recommend consuming a diet high in these foods, avoiding sun exposure during the hot parts of the day (ie. Finding shade, wearing a UV hat and clothing), while at the same time exposing your body to sun during the early mornings and late evenings to build up some natural protection as well as get your vitamin D.

The good thing is that all these foods are the MOST delicious during the hottest and sunniest months, which makes me wonder if perhaps they were built with sun protection in mind….what do you think?

Sun Protecting Food

Blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and plums.

What do these foods have in common? High antioxidant capabilities! Free radicals like the kind formed from sun exposure will damage the mem- brane of skin cells. The antioxidants in these fruits can protect the cells so there is less of a chance for any damage.

Dark Cacao

Yes. Chocolate. I was very excited to read this one. A 2006 study shows that eating dark chocolate helps with photo-

protection, improves skin circulation, and affects cosmetically relevant skin surface and hydration of the skin.

Salmon, Walnuts, Canola Oil, and Flax Seed

These foods contain essential fatty acids, which is imperative for healthy skin cells. The best-known essential fatty acids are omega 3 and omega 6, which must be in balance for good health (and good skin).

Hempseed Oil

Hempseed oil is found to be an effective shield and protector against both UVA and UVB radiation. Drizzle on meals, use in dressings or take as a supplement.

Organic Dairy Products

One the most important components of skin health is vitamin A, which is found in high sources in these food sources.

Whole-wheat bread, muffins, and cereals, turkey, & tuna

The mineral selenium plays as a big role in healthy skin. Some studies show that even skin damaged by the sun may suffer fewer consequences if selenium levels are high.

Water Proper hydration

This is essential for healthy, younger-looking skin. Drinking water helps to give your skin the moisture it needs to maintain elasticity and suppleness and to prevent dryness.

What are your thoughts on sun protection?

With love,

Grandmother's Kitchen