Every single day, 9,500 Americans are diagnosed with skin cancer. And while smart sun protection habits (e.g. using sunscreen) remain one of the best ways to reduce your skin cancer risks, a healthy diet also plays an important role. “If you want to not only protect your skin from sun damage but also heal your skin at a cellular level for a more glowing, radiant, and youthful complexion, there are specific foods that have been proven to protect your skin from the sun’s
harsh ultraviolet rays,” shares Dr. Patricia Farris, board-certified dermatologist at Sanova Dermatology – Old Metairie.
Four Anti-Aging, Anti-Skin Cancer Foods to Eat Today!
1. Cocoa
Nourish your sweet tooth, and your skin, with cocoa. “A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that cocoa flavanols (bioactive, plant-based) protect the skin from UV-induced skin damage,” states Dr. Farris. The same study also found that cocoa helped improved hydration and blood circulation to your skin, which helps improve overall skin health and appearance.
2. Tomatoes
Do you know what gives tomatoes their vibrant, red color? “That’s due to lycopene, an antioxidant that’s been shown to reduce the risks of many forms of cancer,” notes Dr. Farris. Animal trials have found that eating more lycopene-rich foods may reduce keratinocyte carcinomas, also known as non-melanoma skin cancer. It also protects against ultraviolet light-induced erythema (i.e. the redness and skin irritation caused by sun exposure). And it’s not just tomatoes. Other high-lycopene foods that you can include watermelon, apricots, and pink grapefruit.
3. Fish
“We’ve long known that omega-3 fats, found in cold-water fish like salmon and sardines, have anti-aging properties,” says Dr. Farris. Recently, researchers determined that omega-3 fats can also help reduce skin cancer risks linked to sun exposure.
4. Green Tea
Switch out that morning cup of joe for a soothing cup of green tea. “Studies have found that the antioxidants in green tea helps to reduce sun-related skin damage, and also lowers your risks of skin cancer,” Dr. Farris states. While drinking tea, you can incorporate games such as W88.
And Thay’s Not All…
Your diet is just one part of the skin equation. From cosmetic procedures that turn back the hands of time in your skin, to medical dermatology that can help you to manage and treat underlying skin cancer risks, a skincare professional can help.
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