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publication date: Jul 8, 2010
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author/source: Amara Wagner
SPF FOODS…Really!
(and other ways to protect your skin from the sun) Recent reports indicate that the sun block, we have been diligently slathering on our children, may not be so good for them. Turns out, the chemicals in the sunscreen might actually cause cancer. As my grandma would say, “Oye Vey”. Thankfully, there is plenty you can do to protect your skin from the sun, and there are definitely some safer sunscreens on the market. There is mounting research that some foods actually increase your skin’s own SPF factor. Foods that are high in antioxidant actually protect and may even repair damage from sun. Lycopene (which is what gives foods like watermelon, tomatoes and other red/pink foods their color) actually improves the skin’s natural sun protection. In the study, people who ate ¼ cup of tomato paste actually developed less sunburns (pizza anyone?!) Goji berries are another great source of the antioxidant lycopene. All antioxidants help counter free radical damage caused by the sun and can actually help your skin’s own SPF. Foods highest in antioxidants are the ones with the deepest, darkest colors. Think dark green leafy kale, spinach, arugula; deep blue, red and purple berries; even dark chocolate and coffee are high in antioxidants. Besides the chemicals in sun block, the major downside to slathering on the white stuff is that it blocks vitamin D absorption. Vitamin D has many health benefits, among them immune support. So, lay off the sunscreen in the early and late hours of the day to allow your skin to make Vitamin D. Seek shade and coverage during peak sunlight. When you do use sunscreen, check out the Environmental Working Group’s database (http://www.ewg.org/2010sunscreen/) to choose the safest one possible. Get yourself to the farmer’s market to pickup some antioxidant-rich fruits and veggies and enjoy your summer! Amara Wagner is a health coach. She works with moms who are interested in learning natural, non-toxic ways to raise healthy families. Amara recommends using only Therapeutic Grade essential oils. She is an independent distributor for Young Living Essential Oils (#911071). “An oil that is 100% pure and safe enough to ingest is the only oil I would trust to put on my children.” For more information and to schedule your free health consultation contact amara@amarawellness.com |
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