Tomatoes
There is no doubt that sunscreen lotions and creams should be the first line of defense against the sun’s rays, especially during the summer. But few people know that by eating tomatoes, we can benefit from extra protection. Consuming more lycopene, a carotenoid that gives tomatoes their red colour, can protect our skin from sunburns.
One study found that participants who were exposed to ultraviolet light had a 50% smaller red surface of their skin after eating two and a half tablespoons of tomato paste (or drinking almost two cups of carrot juice daily), in addition to their usual diet, for 10 to 12 weeks. However, synthetic food supplements have not been as effective as fresh vegetable products, so when in doubt, always go fresh.
