Posts Tagged ‘sunscreen’

Sun Protection From The Inside Out

August 3, 2015

We all know the importance of slathering on the sunscreen before going out for prolonged periods of time, but even short strolls in the blazing sun can do damage to our skin.

An article featured on Q blog this week points out the ways we can protect our skin from the inside out, by eating the right foods to help reduce the damage from UV rays.

Green Tea: 

The antioxidents in green tea have been proven to reduce the risks of cancer. According to Dr.Macrene Alexiades-Armenakas, these powerful leaves “offer photo-protection from the sun’s radiation, blocking UV lights that cause skin tumors.” It is also associated with increased fat burning, so drink up!

Tomatoes:

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These ruby red fruits are at their peak right now. The lypocene found in tomatoes not only increases collagen production thereby boosting elasticity, it also helps neutralize the harmful effects of sunlight.

Salmon:

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Salmon contains high levels of vitamin D, which increases natural sun tolerance and is blocked by the use of topical sunscreens. Raw salmon (ala sushi and sashimi,) has even more vitamin D than its cooked counterpart.

Dark Chocolate: 

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The flavinoids in dark chocolate improve blood flow by dilating the vessels, which provides protection when you skin burns.

While adding these protective foods to your diet is great, it does not replace the need for using a good sunscreen and a floppy hat when you are out in the sun.

Photos: Green Tea: Found Health

All others: Glasshouse Images

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Is Sunscreen Harmful?

June 22, 2012

As the temperature rises our thoughts often turn to tanning. For several years, we have been cautioned to protect our skin from harmful UVB rays, by slathering on high SPF sunscreen.

Sunlight provides us with a healthy dose of vitamin D, which is essential in the development of strong bones. It is also thought to protect us against certain cancers, as well as insulin resistance. Sunlight also enables our natural immunity, promotes the growth and healing of our skin, and stimulates hormone production. Medical guidelines suggest that 15-20 minutes of daily sunlight is good for you.

Over the past 30 years, the incidence of melanoma, or skin cancer has increased dramatically. During this period, the use of sunscreens has increased as well. Researchers are wondering if there is a correlation.

Some of the ingredients in sunscreen are potentially toxic. Avoid products containing retinyl palmitate, oxybenzone, octisalate, octinoxate and avobenzone, which are known to cause lesions when exposed to the sun, and can interfere with hormone receptors in our bodies. Sunscreens with parabans are also not recommended.

It is not known if UVA or UVB rays cause skin cancer. Therefore, it is important to use a broad-spectrum mineral based product that blocks both.

Fortunately, there are other sources of vitamin D. Look to low fat dairy products and supplements to reap the benefits of without the potential harm.

photo: Glasshouse Images


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