Know Your SPF
Sun Protection Foods
by Regina Ann
Here we are in the heart of Sun Season, at least in the
Northern Hemisphere. With the Summer Sun shining
and more of us spending time in it I thought it a good
time to talk about SPF. Most of us think of Sun
Protection Factor ratings when we see SPF but I want to
share another SPF with you, Sun Protection Foods. The
number of whole foods which supply precisely what our
body’s need for sun protection may just surprise you.
Commonly when people think of soaking up the sun we reach for a bottle of sunscreen.
Here are two reasons I am not one of those.
•
Wearing sunscreen blocks Vitamin D. Research continues to support that Vitamin
D deficiency is one of the more critical conditions we currently face. Symptoms
of Vitamin D deficiency, as shared by Natural News* includes:
o Flu
o Muscle weakness
o Psoriasis
o Chronic kidney disease
o Diabetes
o Asthma
o Periodontal disease
o Cardiovascular disease
o Schizophrenia and Depression
o Cancer
•
Most sunscreens contain toxic chemicals. There are more safe sunscreens on the
market today than there were when I began this healthy makeover more than a
decade ago however, one must know exactly what to look for on labels to avoid
products that are misrepresented as “natural.” There is no standard for “natural” in
product labeling therefore, even petrochemicals linked to cancer and banned in
other countries may be included in a “natural” label because they come from
natural sources. Here is a good sunscreen resource
http://www.ewg.org/2013sunscreen/
My sun protection plan includes Sun Protection Foods, aloe vera, coconut water, purified
water and zinc oxide (for extended sun times). Since sunburn is a type of inflammatory
response, anti-inflammatory foods are highly beneficial. Nurturing healthy, hydrated skin
cells increases the body’s ability to more effectively manage sun exposure. That being
said, here is a listing of Sun Protection Foods that you can incorporate into your healthy
lifestyle.
Cocoa (Dark Chocolate): Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants that can protect the skin
from sunburn and skin cancer. Research I have found indicates the higher the cocoa
percentage, the better with 70% being the least I recommend if using it as an antioxidant
source. Milk should not be added to the chocolate as it interferes with the absorption of
the antioxidants. Two ounces of dark chocolate daily is the typical recommendation.
Green and Black Teas: Rich in one of the most powerful botanical antioxidants known
to date, green and black teas protect from the inside out. Green tea is my preferred
choice. I have practiced a green tea following my meals ritual for years after learning of
its benefits to my digestive system. Two to four cups per day is the typical
recommendation.
Vitamin C: We cannot produce our own Vitamin C therefore, we must consume it. While
there are plenty of supplements on the market here are some foods rich in Vitamin C that
you can include.
• All Citrus fruits
• Melons
• Dark leafy greens
• Peppers
• Carrots
• Cherries
• Apples
• Kiwi
• Broccoli
• Berries
• Peaches
• Apricots
• Plums
• Pineapples
• Pomegranates
• Tomatoes
• Chard
Vitamin E: One of the more commonly known health nutrients, here are some foods you
can enjoy and eat your Vitamin E.
• Almonds
• Peanuts (a common food allergen so be aware)
• Wheat germ
• Sunflower seeds
• Pistachios
• Avocado
• Whole grains
• Oats
• Broccoli
•
•
•
•
Spinach
Kiwi
Tomatoes
Chard
Note: Cooked tomatoes offer more sun protection that uncooked tomatoes.
Turmeric root: Turmeric contains curcumin which offers superb anti-inflammatory
benefits. Turmeric may be sprinkled on food or cooked with.
Hydration: Plenty of purified water is as essential to healthy skin as it is to a healthy
body. Our bodies are (depending on sources) 60-70+% water so replacing what we lose
through respiration and perspiration is vital to maintain optimal health. Along with water
I choose to drink Coconut water to keep electrolytes balanced and everything humming
along.
Knowing your Sun Protection Foods provides you with options. Sunscreen is always a
good idea if you plan to be in the sun for extended periods of time. Do your homework
and be certain the sunscreen is all natural. In my opinion you just can’t beat a quality zinc
oxide. Nurturing your body with Sun Protection Foods is good for a healthy body
whether you are in the sun or not.
Now you Know Your SPFs, Enjoy your summer!
*http://www.naturalnews.com/035089_vitamin_D_deficiency_signs_symptoms.html
~*~ Regina Ann is the founder of Integrative Wholistic Solutions and a Holistic Health &
Wellness Practitioner offering Complimentary and Integrative Medicines, resources and
tools to assist you in achieving emotional, mental, physical, spiritual Well Being. Visit
IntegrativeWholisticSolutions.com to learn more.
*All Rights Reserved
2010-2013