Most people will do whatever they can to get the perfect summer tan even though they know how much damage to skin is caused by overexposure to the sun. They wear sunblock and stay out in the sun for hours, visit tanning salons and even use spray on tanning products to make their skin look darker.
But did you know that there are foods you can eat that will help you tan, while simultaneously protecting you from the damaging effects of sun overexposure?
- Carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which is not only known for its powerful antioxidant properties, but also for contributing to the maintenance of well-hydrated skin with a high level of elasticity.
- Eggs
Eating whole, organic eggs, especially the yolks, helps your skin tan well. Egg yolk is high in vitamin A, an important vitamin promoting the regeneration of skin and boosting its ability to tan well.
- Peaches
Besides carotenoids, peaches also contain flavonoids, which lead to a great tan. Yellow peaches may not be as tasty as white, but they do protect skin more effectively.
- Water
Water is extremely important for healthy skin. Your body is made up of over 60% water so in order for it to function at its best, it has to stay well-hydrated. This includes your skin and its ability to tan instead of burning. If you are exposed to the sun while dehydrated, your skin dries and burns instead of producing that warm summer glow you want. So be sure to drink lots of water when you’re outside, and at least every 20 minutes if directly exposed to the sun. It’s also helpful to consume foods with a high water content like watermelon and cucumbers.
- Cheese
Cheese is high in selenium, which not only helps prevent sunburn but also helps you tan better because it delays the aging process of the skin, acting against free radicals in your system. White cheeses are especially high in selenium.
- Spinach
Like carrots, spinach is rich in antioxidants and beta-carotene, which not only improve vision but also help your skin get that golden brown color you want.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene, a similar ingredient to that found in carrots and spinach, which is stored in the fat cells directly under your skin and help it tan well. Tomatoes also destroy free radicals that cause wrinkles.
- Apricots
Apricots are rich in carotenoids, which give them their beautiful golden brown color and are powerful antioxidants.
- Olive oil
Olive oil can help you get the color you are looking for, and then help you maintain it over time. Noone wants wrinkly, dry-looking skin. Your skin needs healthy oils to stay fresh and vibrant. Don’t use olive oil externally on your skin, but consume it through the food you eat.
- Prunes
Prunes are high in vitamin A and carotenoids, which will add color to your skin. They are also high in antioxidants that destroy free radicals and help you avoid wrinkles and damage caused by overexposure to the sun.
- Strawberries
Strawberries are a sign of spring. They contain more vitamin c than the orange and protect better from heart attacks, memory loss and the destruction of the skin by UV rays. Strawberries are also high in antioxidants and an ally against heart disease.
- Peas
Peas are extremely nutritious and full of fiber, vitamins a, c, k, which are critical to skin health.
- Cauliflower
Even though most people prefer broccoli, cauliflower deserves your attention. It is just as powerful as broccoli and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
- Blueberries
The high antioxidant content of blueberries make it a powerful weapon against skin damage.
- Morchella mushrooms
This mushroom is in the truffle family so a bit on the pricey side, but it is very effective for delaying the aging process and keeping skin looking soft and hydrated.
Tip: Remember that eating these foods will not give you the perfect tan overnight. You need to consume at least five servings daily for at least two months before you begin to see the results you want on your skin.
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