Skin cancer rates in Mediterranean
countries are extremely low despite
abundant sunshine. An Israeli
researcher has shown that the socalled
Mediterranean diet, rich in
antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids
may help protect against skin cancer.
Her study involved two groups of
people, one was given a drink high in
antioxidants while the other enjoyed
beverages such as sodas. At the end
of two weeks and five to six hours a
day in the sun, those who drank the
antioxidant rich beverage had fifty
percent fewer oxidation products in
their blood. Further study showed
these antioxidants, especially
carotenoids, had delayed the start of
skin and DNA damage that can lead
to skin cancer. Dr. Niva Shapira says
while covering up, using sunscreen
and avoiding the sun at peak hours
are still important, consider dietary
changes too to promote skin health.