The best way to fight skin cancer is by ‘Feeding’ your Skin.
The American Cancer Society claims that oxidative damage is associated to increased risk of cancer. Many researches have proved that diets rich in antioxidants such as carotenoids, vitamins C and E lower the risk of getting cancer.
In addition, orange foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin contain cartenoids, substances which can reduce sunburn and wrinkles. Also, we shouldn’t forget the quercitin in citrus fruits, the lutein in spinach and kale, and the lycopene in tomatoes and red peppers, because they also protect the skin.
But the most important fruits are berries. They have the most antioxidants. An added bonus is that they are lower in sugar when compared to other fruits.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Studies have confirmed that the omega-3 fatty acids in fish suppress and slow the cancer growth in animals. They are also linked to reduced risk of heart disease.A healthy balance of omega-3 fatty acids to omega-6 is priceless. Too many omega-6 polyunsaturated fats (from sunflower, safflower, and other vegetable oils) will find their way to the skin’s surface, where sunlight oxidizes them. This will create dangerous free radicals which will damage DNA, leading to aging of the skin and skin cancer.
Studies published in the 1996 Journal of the American Medical Association showed that selenium supplements reduced the risk of death from skin cancer by 50%. But it is important to consume selenium supplements in moderation. Good selenium sources are Brazil nuts, walnuts, free-range chicken or grass-fed beef.
Tea contains mighty antioxidants. Kingston University researchers have tested 21 plant and herb extracts for their potential health benefits, and the results showed that white tea was the best.
White tea prevents the breakdown of collagen and elastin in the skin and suppresses enzymes linked with inflammation and some cancers.
Vitamin A in supplements is usually toxic. Instead, you should take Vitamin A from foods such as carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes.
Biotin is the B vitamin that is the basis of skin cells. Deficiencies are rare because it can be found in many foods such as bananas, eggs, and rice and our bodies make some on their own.
In 2008, researchers from University of Sydney discovered that nicotinamide (vitamin B3) can protect the immune system and prevent UV damage to the skin. B3 can be found in meats (like grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and venison), salmon and nuts.
Citrus fruits and vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower and leafy greens contain vitamin C, and that is why we should eat them regularly.
The best source of Vitamin D is the sun. Other good sources are salmon and eggs.
Vitamin E is very good for skin treatment. It can be found in asparagus, olives, nuts, seeds and spinach.