Most people love to spend sunny days outside, but too much sun exposure is harmful to the skin. It can cause skin cancer, premature aging, and sunburn. Sun damage can occur at any time of the year, even when it is cloudy.

Therefore, it is essential to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays. While wearing sunscreen and staying in the shade can help, there are also foods that can provide additional protection for your skin. Here are seven foods that can combat sun damage.

1. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great source of an antioxidant called lycopene. This antioxidant is particularly useful for protecting the skin from sun damage. In a study, individuals who ate tomato paste for ten weeks showed a 40% reduction in sunburn.

Lycopene in tomatoes also has anti-inflammatory properties which can help reduce skin redness caused by sun damage.

2. Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins and flavonoids. These antioxidants have been shown to protect against skin damage caused by UV rays.

Additionally, anthocyanins can reduce oxidative stress that causes skin aging and DNA damage that contributes to cancer formation. Add a handful of blueberries to your yogurt or smoothie for a quick and healthy snack that can give you extra sun protection.

3. Green Tea

Green tea is an excellent source of polyphenols, an antioxidant that specifically fights against skin inflammation. Moreover, green tea’s compounds may help protect cells from DNA damage caused by UV radiation.

Drinking green tea can be a delicious way to reduce the risk of skin damage from sun exposure. For an extra boost, let some green tea cool in the fridge and use it as a toner for your skin after a day in the sun.

4. Carrots

Carrots are incredibly rich in beta-carotene, which is a carotenoid that gives them their orange color. The body converts beta-carotene into Vitamin A, which helps in repairing skin tissues.

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According to a study, consuming beta-carotene can reduce the sensitivity to sunburn. Additionally, eating carrots can help the skin’s hydration, which makes the skin less prone to sunburn and skin damage.

5. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon and tuna, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy skin. Omega-3 fatty acids help the skin stay moisturized, reducing the risk of sun damage.

Moreover, fatty fish is rich in Vitamin D, which helps to protect the skin from damage and also plays a vital role in skin repair. Therefore, incorporating fatty fish into your diet can provide extra sun protection for your skin.

6. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is rich in flavanols, which are antioxidants that can help protect the skin from sun damage. Moreover, a study has suggested that eating dark chocolate could reduce skin redness from UV radiation.

Keep in mind that not all chocolate is the same; dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa is the best option when it comes to sun protection.

7. Almonds

Almonds are an excellent source of Vitamin E, an antioxidant that can reduce inflammation and protect the skin from UV radiation. Additionally, Vitamin E can help fight against skin aging and repair skin damage.

Snack on almonds and other nuts to give your skin a healthy boost of Vitamin E every day.

Conclusion

Eating the right foods can provide additional protection to the skin from UV radiation and reduce the risk of skin damage, skin aging, and skin cancer. Incorporating these foods into your diet can help enhance sun protection and improve skin health.

Remember, while these foods can provide some sun protection, it is still essential to wear sunscreen, limit sun exposure, and seek shade when possible to protect your skin from harmful rays.