Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Sun Tanner’s Nutrition

Sunshine, although essential for health and well-being (particularly because it is our primary source of vitamin D), can also be hazardous to the body. Unprotected exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays can cause eye damage, a weakened immune system, and certain cancers – skin cancer in particular. It is also implicated in skin damage, including age spots, wrinkles, and other signs of aging.

Antioxidants like vitamins C and E are important immune system protectors, guarding the body against the harmful effects of free radicals. These vitamins, however, are sensitive to the light – it takes just a few minutes in the sun to significantly reduce their presence in the skin. Along with the damage from UV rays, the lack of vitamins C and E leaves the skin vulnerable, accelerating the aging process. In addition to using a good broad-spectrum sunscreen, applying topical vitamin E to the skin helps fight wrinkles and other signs of aging. (Vitamin E is often contained in sunscreen). Taken internally, supplemental vitamins C and E also help reduce some of the harmful effects of sun exposure.

If you are going to be in the sun for any length of time – whether relaxing at the beach, working in the garden, or playing an outdoor sport – be sure to apply protective sunscreen and topical vitamin E to your skin. Taking the following nutrients will provide you with further protection.

Supplements for Sun Tanners

• Coenzyme Q10
• N-acetylcysteine
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E

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