The Mediterranean diet is full of nutrients that can protect your body and give you good health and longevity. Some studies actually claim that certain antioxidants, such as vitamins A, C, E, carotenoids, and selenium, can help prevent certain skin cancers by neutralizing cell-damaging free radicals.
Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, one in five Americans will be diagnosed by age 70. Therefore, especially in a country like Greece, which reminds us every day of the harmful effects of the sun and climate change on our skin, what you must do is to use a broad-spectrum SPF 15 and higher sunscreen. sun cream, Protects you from the risk of melanoma, according to the Skin Cancer Foundation also reinforces a healthy diet rich in antioxidants.
In any attempt to reduce the risk of developing cancer, the goal is to protect DNA from cellular damage and mutations. Therefore, with each strengthening of the organization “antioxidant” foods that neutralize cellular stressors desirable and necessary.
Vitamins A, C, E
One study found Increasing dietary intake of vitamin A reduces the risk of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma. In other studies Vitamins C and E help skin cells recover from oxidative stress.
THE Vitamin A It is converted to beta-carotene and can be found in:
- Tomato
- Carrot
- Sweet potato
- Pumpkin pumpkin
- Red pepper
- Cantaloupe cantaloupe
- Mango
- Cabbage
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Milk
- Egg
Good sources vitamin C does:
- Orange
- Tangerines
- Grapefruit
- Strawberry
- raspberry
- Kiwi
- pineapple
- Watermelon
- Guava
- Papa
- Cabbage
- cauliflower
- Celery
- Pepper
- Brussels sprouts
for Vitamin E consumption:
- sunflower seeds
- Peanut
- almond
- asparagus
- avocado
- Cabbage
- Spinach
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are a type of provitamin. According to the US National Cancer Institutecarotenoids are yellow, red, or orange substances that convert to vitamin A and are found in foods such as:
- Carrot
- Sweet potato
- Dark, leafy greens
- Orange and red fruits like melons, mangoes and apricots
Selenium
In addition to fruits and vegetables, some protein-rich foods are packed with the antioxidant selenium, which helps break down peroxides that can damage tissues and DNA. For Selenium, try:
- pork
- Beef
- Turkey
- chicken
- Fish
- Shellfish
- Egg
Additions and conclusion
You should consult a nutritionist regarding the recommended daily intake of antioxidants. Your age, gender and general health always play a role. Remember, it’s best to get all your nutrients from your diet, not from supplements. Talk to your doctor about your case and he will guide you better than anyone else.
Remember that skin cancer can be treated if detected early. Therefore, after protecting yourself with all the methods listed above, do not forget to undergo a preventive examination by a dermatologist. Good general health also means the absence of damage, inflammation and oxidative stress, factors that increase the risk of cancer.