Natural skin cancer prevention

May 18, 10:24 PMProvidence Nutrition ExaminerKimberly Beauchamp

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photo: Lali Masriera

The sun is finally here and with it come picnics, outings to the beach, and pool-side parties. But the dark side of being in the sun is the risk of skin cancer that comes with it. May is National Skin Cancer Awareness Month, so here are some tips for protecting you and your family from the ill effects of too much sunshine.

Stay out of direct sun during peak burn times, especially from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Seek activities that allow you to stay in the shade for these prime time sunburn hours, or at least cover up well with sunscreen and protective clothing. Children are more prone to burning, plus they have a lifetime of sun exposure to look forward to. Skin cancer risk builds over time, so keep kids’ delicate skin protected.

Choose your sunscreen wisely: Avoid those with oxybenzone and benzophenone-3, as these have been linked to hormone disruption and allergic reactions. Opt for mineral-based sunscreens instead, like those from Blue Lizard, Jason, and California Baby. The Environmental Working Group has compiled a list of the most effective/least toxic sunscreens.

Many of the mineral-based formulas can leave you with a slight grayish tint (that stays on painted surfaces forever, so don’t let the kids touch the car after applying!); some companies use micronized or nano particle sizes to get around this. Also, look for sunscreens with added antioxidants like vitamin C, E, selenomethionine, melatonin, and green tea polyphenols for even better protection. UV Naturals combines several antioxidant nutrients with mineral-based sunscreen agents. Use formulas with an SPF of 30+ and remember to reapply after prolonged swimming, perspiration, or toweling off.

Cover up: Coolibar and Sun Precautions offer a wide selection of UV-blocking clothing to protect your whole family. Stock a couple of rash guard shirts for long days at the beach, and don’t forget to slather the sunscreen on the exposed areas.

Eat your sunscreen (not really): The antioxidant nutrient, lycopene, can help protect your skin from UV damage. You can find plenty of it in tomato products, especially concentrated sources like tomato paste and sauce. Add some olive oil to your sauce to boost lycopene absorption. Watermelon is another lycopene-loaded summer favorite. Keep your watermelon at room temperature for maximum lycopene content.

Take an antioxidant supplement: Look for one containing 2-3 grams of vitamin C, 1,000 to 2,000 IU vitamin E, 6 mg mixed carotenoids, and 6 mg lycopene.

Don’t forget the D: As humans, we are supposed to get some sunlight! Vitamin D is converted to its active form in the body upon exposure to ultraviolet light. Recent losses in the ozone layer have done away with much of our natural sunburn protection, though, leaving us no choice but to cover up. Vitamin D has potent effects in the body, ranging from bone building to immune system regulation. Many studies have linked low vitamin D status to higher risk of certain cancers, multiple sclerosis, and heart disease. So don’t forego the sun all together. Soak up some rays in the safer early morning and late afternoon hours, for about 10 minutes, three times per week—with no sunscreen. Or go for a vitamin D supplement, what most dermatologists agree is the safest way to get your D.