While no fruit acts as a complete replacement for sunscreen, several fruits offer natural sun protection due to their high concentration of antioxidants. Berries are a prime example.
Berries: Nature's Sun Protection
Many berries contain significant levels of vitamin C, flavonoids (a type of polyphenol), and carotenoids. These compounds contribute to the fruit's antioxidant properties and offer some degree of UV protection when consumed. This protection is supplemental and shouldn't replace proper sunscreen use.
Types of Berries with Sun-Protective Properties:
- Raspberries
- Blackberries
- Blueberries
- Strawberries
- Goji berries
- Cranberries
It's important to understand that eating berries won't provide the same level of protection as a proper sunscreen. The antioxidants in berries help combat free radical damage caused by sun exposure, supporting your skin's natural defenses, but they don't offer a physical barrier against UV rays.
Therefore, consuming berries rich in antioxidants can be part of a holistic approach to sun protection, but it should always be combined with the use of a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an adequate SPF.
Reference: Berries. Whether it's raspberries, blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, goji berries, cranberries, or otherwise, all berries help you stay protected in the sun (in combination with sunscreen). This is thanks to their vitamin C, flavonoid (and thus polyphenol), and carotenoid content.15-May-2024
