Sunlight exposure can have both immediate and long-term consequences. But did you know that the sun causes 90% of skin ageing? Excessive sun exposure can hasten the onset of wrinkles and other skin problems. UV rays penetrate the skin’s deeper layers, causing sunspots, pigmentation, and premature ageing.
Diet is an often-overlooked aspect of how we care for our skin after our daily routine. Diet plays an important role in helping our skin become more resilient by providing us with SPF-rich nutrients. The foods listed below can help you get a healthy dose of nutrients that can help protect your skin from the sun.
Almonds – A handful of almonds contains a high concentration of nutrients. Consuming almonds may be one way to help your skin from within and support the other things you already do to protect your skin from UVB rays, such as wearing sunscreen. Almonds are also high in Vitamin E, which is beneficial to our skin’s health. Almond consumption on a daily basis may also improve skin resistance to UVB light.
Greens – Green leafy vegetables are an excellent source of antioxidants that can protect against UV ray damage. Dark leafy greens, such as spinach and kale, provide vitamin E to the skin, protecting it from the sun and preventing pigmentation. Lutein and zeaxanthin are antioxidants found in greens that help prevent wrinkles and protect against UV rays. The dark leafy greens are excellent beta-carotene sources for your meals and breakfast smoothies. Beta-carotene is converted by the body into vitamin A, which is necessary for skin health.
Citrus fruits – Citrus fruits are high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against UV rays and pollution. Furthermore, vitamin C-rich foods protect against free radical damage from the sun, which can cause skin ageing. Long-term vitamin C and vitamin E intake has been shown in studies to reduce the risk of sunburn, and higher vitamin C intake has been linked to fewer wrinkles and less dryness. Lemons, kiwi, oranges, grapefruit, and other citrus fruits can be included in your diet. Lycopene, a pigment found in oranges and grapefruits, is also known for its photoprotective properties. Lycopene can help protect your skin from the sun.
So, include these foods in your diet to give your skin the sun protection it deserves!
