There is an undeniable appeal to the healthy glow that sun-kissed skin gives a person. It is so highly coveted that millions of people worldwide sun bathe, use tanning booths, and purchase lotions and make-up products in an effort to gain this desirable radiance. What many people don’t realize is that this same attractive appearance can be achieved with the right choices in diet.
The lively, warm tint that develops in a person’s skin from exposure to sun triggers a process known as melanization. The exposure to the sun’s rays forces a pigment response in the skin that develops darker tones. Unfortunately, it also has the unwelcome side effects of early aging and a higher risk of skin cancer.
This same healthful change in skin color can also be achieved from the inside out by eating fruits and vegetables rich in carotenoids. The pigments of these nutrient rich foods provide a healthy splendor to the skin, not to mention a plethora of added health benefits.
Fruits and vegetables rich in carotene include:
- mangos
- spinach
- carrots
- apricots
- oranges
- canteloupe
- bell peppers
- peas
- broccoli
Recent studies to determine the efficacy of carotenoid tanning as compared to sun bathing brought with it surprising results. In groups that were asked to rate the facial features and skin of individuals who utilized either approach to achieve their radiant glow, individuals who chose to tan by using fruits and vegetables were selected above others.
This leads to yet another reason why your mother was right: Eat your fruits and vegetables, it’s good for you.
