To protect your skin from sun damage that leads to cancer known as melanoma, think about what your put on your skin as well as on your plate. Several foods can help prevent sun-related skin damage. Stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables, which contain several cancer-fighting substances.
General Information
Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer, results from exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight or tanning beds. According to the Mayo Clinic, avoiding exposure to the sun is the best way to prevent development of melanoma. Avoid the midday sun, wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor of at least 15 year-round and stay away from tanning beds. Some foods can also help protect your skin from sun damage, which can lead to melanoma.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are phytochemicals that protect your body's cells from damage. Several of these chemicals are believed to protect your skin from sun damage, which leads to cancer. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, beta-carotene, found in foods like carrots, pumpkins, mangoes, sweet potatoes and dark green vegetables, is one such substance. UMMC also reports that vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, berries, broccoli, and other foods, might protect skin from cancer. Flavonoids, which are also skin-protecting antioxidants, are found in broccoli, celery, apples and onions. According to a study published by the British Broadcasting Company, eating tomatoes, which contain lycopene, can also protect the skin from sunburn. After 12 weeks of daily consumption of tomato paste, women were 30 percent less likely to receive a sunburn after being exposed to UV rays.
Lignans
Animal studies have shown that lignans, substances found in soy foods and flaxseed, can help fight cancer in general, preventing the spread of melanoma from one part of your body to another, as reported by UMMC. No human studies have confirmed this. Skin cancer is usually treatable if it hasn't metastasized.
Omega-3s
"Fitness" magazine reports that omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel and trout, as well as shellfish, can protect against non-melanoma skin cancers, another deadly type of skin cancer. Aim for at least one serving of these types of fish per week.
Other Substances
According to UMMC, curcumin, a substance in the spice turmeric, might help prevent sun-related skin damage. Eating grapes, red wine and peanuts, which contain the phytonutrient resveratrol, might also protect your skin from developing melanoma.
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