Harness the power of antioxidants: Shield your skin from summer sun

As the summer sun radiates its warmth, it’s essential to protect our skin from the harmful effects of UV rays. One effective way to defend against sun damage is by incorporating antioxidants into our diet. These powerful compounds neutralize harmful free radicals, helping to minimize oxidative stress and maintain healthy skin. In this article, we’ll explore the significance of antioxidants in combating sun damage and highlight some antioxidant-rich foods and supplements to support your skin during the summer months.

The Importance of Antioxidants in the Summer Sun: Exposure to the summer sun increases the production of free radicals in our bodies, which can lead to oxidative stress. This oxidative stress is associated with premature aging, sunburns, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Antioxidants play a crucial role in protecting our skin from these harmful effects by:

• Neutralizing free radicals: Antioxidants act as scavengers, neutralizing free radicals and preventing them from causing damage to our skin cells.

• Reducing inflammation: Antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, helping to calm inflammation caused by sun exposure and reducing redness and irritation.

Antioxidant-Rich Foods to Support Your Skin: Including these antioxidantrich foods in your diet can provide a natural defense against sun damage:

• Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries are loaded with antioxidants like vitamin C, which help protect against UV-induced damage.

• Leafy greens: Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin. These compounds help protect the skin from oxidative stress and promote overall skin health.

• Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are excellent sources of vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that supports collagen production and helps repair sun-damaged skin.

• Green tea: Sip on a refreshing cup of green tea, which contains polyphenols that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, promoting healthier skin.

Antioxidant Supplements for Added Protection: While a balanced diet rich in antioxidants is essential, certain supplements can provide additional support:

• Vitamin C: Consider taking a vitamin C supplement, known for its powerful antioxidant properties. It helps neutralize free radicals and supports collagen synthesis for healthier skin.

• Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that helps protect the skin from oxidative stress caused by UV radiation. It’s commonly available as a supplement or can be found in foods like nuts, seeds and vegetable oils.

As you soak up the summer sun, don’t forget to fortify your skin’s defense against harmful UV rays. By incorporating antioxidant-rich foods into your diet and considering supplements, you can help protect your skin from sun damage and maintain a healthy, youthful glow. Remember, a combination of sun protection measures, including wearing sunscreen and seeking shade, along with antioxidant support, is key to keeping your skin healthy and radiant all summer long.

Emily Pilon is a Nutrition Advisor at the Royal Oak Country Grocer