News

Five nutrients for sun protection

  • Published
  • By Dani Lebovitz
  • Robins Public Affairs
ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. --  Research reveals there are some foods which can guard the skin at the cellular level against damage caused by the sun's ultraviolet rays.

Certain foods are high in antioxidants, which protect cells against harmful substances called free radicals that damage cells.
 
Eating these foods can help reduce skin damage caused by exposure to sunlight.

Try eating foods with these five nutrients to protect your skin:

Omega 3 fatty acids:

Research suggests omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory powers that can help protect cells from damage caused by the sun and may protect against some types of skin cancer. You can find them in fatty fish like salmon, tuna, shellfish, flaxseed, flaxseed oil and chia seeds.

Beta-carotene and Lycopene

Beta-carotene and lycopene are antioxidants that also reduce free radicals and aid in UV protection. They're found in red, orange, deep yellow, and dark leafy green vegetables like tomatoes, carrots, spinach, and watermelon to name a few.
 
Flavanoids

Flavanoids are known to be heart protective and they can help shield your skin cells too. Flavanoids are found in cocoa or dark chocolate - so protect your skin with a little dark chocolate today, but be sure to watch chocolate in the heat so it doesn't melt.

Polyphenols

Lower your risk for skin cancer with cellular defense provided by polyphenols which increase your body's natural ability to protect against sunlight. Enjoy your favorite green and black tea and get your daily dose of polyphenols.

Anthocyanins

Guard your skin with anthocyanins, another powerful antioxidant that provides natural sun protection in the form of delicious produce.

Want to protect your skin? Eat more blueberries, blackberries and cranberries.
 
Even though some foods can help protect against sun damage, they're no replacement for sunblock. Be sure to apply sunscreen as directed - typically a layer 30 minutes prior to sun exposure and re-apply after about 90 minutes.