The acronym is how I remember the order of the colors of a rainbow – must have been something I learned during elementary school! But this same acronym can help you protect your skin this summer! Houston summers are pretty harsh – and if your summer is making you think more about sunscreen and minimizing hot harsh sun afternoons – you are not alone. The foods we eat might actually prepare our bodies to work stronger against sun damage to our skin.
R- stands for Red. Tomatoes and watermelon are red fruits that contain lycopene – antioxidant that absorbs UV radiation. Both are plentiful in the summer months, and delicious in salads and salsa.
O- stands for Orange. Carrots and Sweet Potatoes contain beta carotene. Our bodies convert that beta carotene into vitamin A which is necessary for optimal skin health. Both are plentiful in summer months and amazing in muffins, cakes, salads, and smoothies.
Y- stands for Yellow. Stretch with me as we include all nuts, seeds, eggs, and fish in this category. Why? Because they are all great sources of omega-3 fatty acids necessary for skin and brain health. As a boost it’s also anti-inflammatory. These items are plentiful all year round, and most serve as great clean fats throughout your day.
G- stands for Green. Leafy greens are high in antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin which are fuel for the eyes and skin, and may protect the whole body against wrinkling, sun damage, and even skin cancer. You may never look at your next salad the same way!
B- stands for Blue. Blueberries contain vitamin C and many antioxidants that help protect against free radical damage. They are amazing morsels of anti-aging, anti-wrinkling, sweet goodness. Enjoy them in your next smoothie!
I- stands for Indigo. Figs and Asparagus are in this category, and they help balance skin melanin which can increase hydration and can also have an anti-wrinkling effect (think premature aging). They also promote collagen production, which makes the skin firmer. As luck would have it, both of these foods are amazing solo (roasted asparagus, tender ripe figs) as well as together (fig & asparagus salad).
V- stands for Violet. Blue cabbage, passionfruit, & purple cauliflower all fall in this category. They are rich in anthocyanins, which combat free radical damage. Additional benefits include protection for the brain, heart, against cancer, and against chronic inflammation. All protect skin cells from sun damage, and passionfruit has demonstrated increasing skin moisture. Cauliflower (white or purple) is a sun protective food helping to absorb UV radiation. Enjoy these foods slightly grilled or in a smoothie!
