Foods That Protect You From the Sun

Protect your skin from the sun. You’ve heard the advice before. And it’s important, especially during the summer months when the sun’s ultraviolet rays are the strongest. But there’s more to keeping your skin healthy than simply using sunscreen, wearing a hat, and picnicking in the shade.

In fact, research shows that eating healthy foods can also help protect your skin from the sun. What’s the secret ingredient? Antioxidants. They help prevent cell damage that can cause cancer and other health problems. And they’re found in a variety of foods. In addition to being sun smart, add these foods to your menu to protect your skin from the sun:

Fish

Fish like tuna, trout, herring, shellfish, and salmon are high in omega-3 fatty acids. The American Heart Association recommends eating fish twice a week. Omega-3 fatty acids help protect your heart, and they act as an anti-inflammatory that can also help protect your skin, according to research published in the journal Cancer Detection and Prevention. Add fish to your meal plan, and try MagicKitchen.com meals like Baked Cod in Mediterranean Sauce, Lobster Ravioli & Tomato Cream Sauce, or Baked Tilapia with Lemon Butter Sauce.

Orange and Red-Colored Veggies
Ever wonder what gives tomatoes, carrots, and red bell peppers their bright color? It’s a pigment called lycopene, and it’s a powerful antioxidant. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that lycopene in tomatoes helped prevent ultraviolet light from causing skin damage. To get more orange and red-colored veggies in your diet, try Magic Meatloaf with Tomato Sauce, Buttered Carrots, or Mama’s Beef Lasagna with Tomato Sauce.

Cruciferous Vegetables
This family of vegetables includes leafy-veggies like cabbage, broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. A study published in the journal Nutrition and Cancer found that antioxidants in cruciferous vegetables help prevent skin cancer and other types of cancer. Half your plate should be filled with vegetables at every meal. Try Chicken Fettucine Alfredo served with fresh, tender broccoli or enjoy Broccoli & Cauliflower with Cheese Sauce.

Leafy Greens
Another group of veggies high in antioxidants are leafy greens like spinach and swiss chard. Fresh herbs like basil, sage, parsley, and rosemary count too. Studies show that these foods are naturally high in antioxidants and help prevent skin damage from sun exposure. You’ll find leafy greens in MagicKitchen.com meals like Chicken and Artichoke with Spinach, Lemon Rosemary Pork, and Roasted Turkey with Gravy and sage stuffing.

Who knew protecting your skin from the sun could taste so good? Take a break from cooking this summer, and pick your favorite entrees packed with antioxidants at MagicKitchen.com.