The Natural Way to Protect Skin: Watermelon and Tomato

During summer days, we are exposed to the sun at high levels, which is why both protecting skin against sun rays and obtaining adequate benefits from these rays is a crucial matter for healthy skin. Emphasizing that sun protection should not be pursued by avoiding the sun altogether, and stressing that sun rays are necessary for the body based on expert recommendations, Dietitian Sibel Mumcu states, "By paying attention to our nutrition, it is possible to protect our skin from the harmful effects of the sun." Pointing out that carotenoids found in foods, particularly beta-carotene and lycopene, are highly effective in protecting against the sun's harmful effects, Dietitian Sibel Mumcu states, "Vegetables and fruits such as carrots, apricots, tomatoes, peppers, melons, spinach, parsley, grape leaves and dill contain beta-carotene. Lycopenes are pigments that give fruits and vegetables a pink-red color. They are found in abundance in tomatoes, watermelons, strawberries and grapefruit. Tomato is a source of lycopene; it makes the skin look better. Watermelon contains lycopene like tomato; it prevents skin redness and dehydration of the body."

Protecting Your Skin with Dark Green Leafy Vegetables

Highlighting that vegetables such as broccoli and fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, sage and parsley are rich in antioxidants that fight free radicals and protect the skin, Sibel Mumcu stated, "Dark green leafy vegetables are also a source of antioxidants and protect the skin from sun damage."

Stating that omega-3s keep the skin luminous and firm, Mumcu said, "These fatty acids strengthen the cell membrane and help the skin look younger. Salmon, walnuts, flax seeds, olive oil and dark green vegetables should definitely be included in the diet."Vitamins E and C Against Skin Aging

Stating that vitamins E and C are powerful antioxidants and effective vitamins against aging to protect our skin from the sun's damage, Healthy Lifestyle Manager Dietitian Sibel Mumcu said, "Sources of vitamin E include most vegetable oils, walnuts, hazelnuts, pistachios, seeds, meat, fish, green leafy vegetables, spinach, asparagus, apples, eggs and grains. Strawberries, kiwis, oranges and other citrus fruits, yellow, green and red peppers, dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, tomatoes, peas and parsley are the best sources of vitamin C."

Spending Short and Correct Amounts of Time in the Sun

Noting that the sun activates vitamin D, which is very important for bones, and that one needs to benefit from the sun correctly, Mumcu stated, "Rather than spending long hours in the sun, correct sun exposure for short periods is sufficient for this activation. While sun exposure duration and time vary depending on the latitude characteristics of the region, contact with the sun without protection for about 10-15 minutes during the hours when sun rays come directly is sufficient for vitamin D to become active and be stored."

Sunlight Improves Anxiety and Prevents Depression

Noting that it is thought that sunlight also increases the release of serotonin hormone from the brain, Healthy Lifestyle Manager Dietitian Sibel Mumcu said, "This hormone shows effects that help strengthen mood, improve anxiety conditions and prevent depression."