Which foods can help you protect yourself naturally against sun damage from the inside out? Head to the grocery store and start shopping with a new kind of grocery list:

• Oranges, limes, and lemons: Contain limonene, an essential oil component derived from citrus rinds. A study from the University of Arizona shows that the presence of limonene in the body can reduce the risk for skin cancer by as much as 34%. Fresh squeezed lemonade or fruit salad is an easy way to incorporate citrus into your food choices.


• Green tea: Green tea’s potent antioxidants, Epigallocatechin 3-gallate (ECGCs) work by protecting DNA from damage caused by light and sun exposure. Supplement a healthy diet with Pure Inventions Green Tea for a concentrated serving of ECGSs. Brew iced green tea for a cool, refreshing and skin-sparing treat.


• Cherries and peppermint leaves: Both contain perillyl alcohol, which has been shown to stop the formation of cancer cells in humans, even after exposure to intense UV rays. Rinse cherries under cool water and enjoy straight out of the bag, and let mint brighten tea or lemonade.


• Wild salmon: Fish oil has long been proven to have great health benefits. Wild salmon helps protect from UV-induced sunburn and cancerous changes in DNA. Broil, bake or grill salmon for an easy, quick and nutritious dinner.


• Leafy greens: According to one study by Harvard University, those with lutein and zeaxanthin (a type of vitamin that can help prevent skin discoloration) work to prevent UV-induced cancer cells from reproducing in the body. Tumble dark greens and lettuces into a bowl with a splash of salad dressing for a tasty lunch or supper.


• Orange, red and yellow fruits and vegetables: All of these popular foods contain carotenoids, a major sunburn reducer, which in turn can reduce the risk of skin cancer. In particular, tomatoes contain high amounts of lutein and other potent antioxidants which neutralize free radical damage. Peppers, zucchini and squash make terrific side dishes when grilled simply with olive oil and fresh chopped herbs.


• Dark chocolate: Dessert strikes back! German research has found that foods rich in cocoa solids and flavanoids, such as dark chocolate, also aide in the fight against skin cancer. Chocolate has become recognized as an antioxidant-rich food that can help "shield" the skin against sun damage.

Of course, continuing to maintain good sun and skincare practices are vital to both reduce the risk of both cancer and sunburn. Make sure to follow the directions on the products you're using, avoid unnecessary sun exposure and wear sunscreen and sun block on a daily basis. For a sunscreen that also helps prevent aging, SkinMedica Daily Sun Protection SPF 20 acts as the ideal oil-free sunblock and is formulated with vitamins A, C and E so you can look your best all year round!

See also:

Green Tea Extract

Antioxidants: The Power Plants of Youthful Skin

Grape Seed Extract