During the summer, sun rays are more potent bringing plenty of harmful radiation alongside the usual warmth. Solar radiations can cause a lot of harm to the human body, especially its outer layer; this is why it is important to keep your skin healthy and protected.
Apart from sunscreen, which should be applied every time a person goes out of the house, certain foods help to keep your skin healthy and protected from the possible sun damage.
The greatest natural ally against harmful sun rays are antioxidants. These substances are naturally produced by a variety of fruits and vegetables. Their role is to inhibit oxidation, acting like vitamin E or C that remove damaging oxidizing agents from a living organism.
Plants secrete antioxidants in order to protect themselves from air, moisture, time, and heat damage. When a person ingests a plant that contains antioxidants, the substances help the individual build a natural safeguard for his or her skin cells.
Nutritionists recommend the consumption of tomatoes that contain high amounts of lycopene. This particular substance gives the tomato its red color. By eating tomatoes, an individual lowers the impact of UV radiation on his or her body.
Another very healthy and highly recommended vegetable is the carrot. The orange wonders contain beta-carotene which repairs the skin cells and helps protect the skin from photo-aging, which is caused by constant exposure to UV rays. Moreover, eating carrots on a regular basis can help you reduce the effects and intensity of a sunburn.
Sweet potatoes are also rich in beta-carotene, antioxidants, and Vitamin A. The antioxidants present in sweet potatoes are useful in preventing different cancer types and repair skin damaged by ultraviolet exposure. It was also proven that the American vegetable could reduce the dark circles under the eyes, improve skin texture, and reduce puffiness.
Summer warmth also dehydrates the skin. In order to prevent the cracked, rugged feeling of dried skin, you can use hydrating sun lotion and eat watermelon. The fruit contains lycopene, a substance that protects the skin from UV rays damage, while also acting as a natural toner that hydrates the skin.
Other fruits that help you keep your skin healthy this summer are black currants, blackberries, dewberries, elderberries, and acai.
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