Believe it or not, religiously re-applying sunscreen isn't the only way to warn off sunburn and get a glowing tan. We all know that you are what you eat, so this summer, it's time to fill your plate (and your tummy) with foods that help boost your natural defences against the sun. We spoke to Madeleine Shaw, celebrity nutritionist (her clients include Millie Mackintosh) and author of 'Get The Glow' to find out how we can eat ourselves a better SPF...
Foods That Fight Sunburn
"Many fabulous foods contain nutrients that can also help to boost our skin’s antioxidant levels and protect us against sun damage! So when you are off on holiday make sure you are filling your body with some of these goodies to help combat and protect your skin from future burns. Raw cacao contains a good dose of antioxidants that protect our skin from sunburn - so it’s obviously essential to have some raw chocolate brownies! Green leafy veg is rich in oxygenated carotenoid compounds known as xanthophylls. Carotenes are unoxygenated carotenoid compounds which provide pigment to fruits and vegetables. This pigment is used by plants as sunscreen and can activate melanin. Other fab foods containing high concentrations of carotenes are apricots, papaya, mango, carrots, sweet potatoes and beetroot."
Nourishing Nutrients To Protect Your Skin
"Pomegranates contain powerful polyphenol compounds such as catechins and anthocyanins which help strengthen the skin making it stronger. Don't forget Omega 3, either - foods like oily fish and chia seeds can help reduce inflammation and protect your skin from sunburn and melanoma."
Keep That Tan For Longer
"Vitamin C rich foods such as red peppers, cherries, kiwis, berries and citrus food are perfect summer foods and have lots of added goodness. They will stop you from burning and peeling so much. Coconut oil topically on the skin is the best way to maintain the tan."
Madeleine Shaw is working with 100% natural, cold-pressed smoothie brand Savse to spread the word that it’s easier than ever to ‘Health Yourself’, through simple nutritional, diet and health tips. For information visit savsesmoothies.com