It’s almost beach season; a time to lay out and soak up the sun. Whether or not you’ve actually planned a tropical getaway, you probably enjoy getting out in the sun to work on your tan. But, did you know certain foods can enhance that tan?
Leafy greens like kale and spinach, and orange veggies like sweet potatoes and carrots are full of beta-carotene which act as a natural sun-block. The brighter the orange or green color, the higher the amounts of beta-carotene. If you eat these bright foods regularly, your skin looks more youthful and moisturized and can support a more effective tan when you’re out in the sun, while preventing a burn. (Even so, it’s never a bad idea to use sunblock.)
According to a British study, fruits and veggies with a high concentration of beta-carotene can even cause your skin pigment to darken, appearing as a healthy tan.
Foods rich in copper, such as oysters, clams and other shellfish, in addition to liver, can help your body produce higher amounts of melanin (which is the natural pigment found in your skin).
Whether you enjoy sunbathing or prefer a shadier environment, bright orange and green produce can do wonders for your complexion and skin tone.
