Now that summer has officially arrived, the days are longer, the sun is stronger, and all most of us wants to do is sit outside, enjoy the fresh air, and sizzle in the heat. Sensible sun exposure boosts your Vitamin D levels and has wonderful benefits to your overall health and wellbeing. Frying your skin, or being outside for long periods of time, can have really damaging effects on your skin, which results in loss of elasticity, fine lines, wrinkles and saggy skin. Too much sun exposure without practical protection results in accelerated ageing. Growing up in canada, and deailng with bitter cold winters, I believe has sparked my sun-seeker from within. For those who know me, I love nothing more than warm temperatures, blue skys, and beautiful sunsets. So in order for me to enjoy the benefits of sunshine without damaging my skin, I not only cover up with a big hat, shades factor +50 for the face and at least factor +30 for my body, I also consume more protective antioxidant rich foods rich in Vitamins A, E, C. Here is a sunny list of my A, E & C sources…..Start Snacking.

Vitamin A

Leafy Greens like kale, spinach, dandelion, and collard greens. as well as high levels found in Carrots, Mangos, Pumpkin seeds, sweet potato.

Vitamin C

Kiwi, Papaya, guava, strawberries, goji berries, peppers, broccoli, citrus fruits, and dark leafy greens.

Vitamin E

Dark Leafy Greens, Olives, Avocado and Extra Virgin Olive Oil, walnuts, almonds, and pecans.

So next time you plan on heading out to top up your tan, be sure to protect your self from the inside out and include more antioxidant rich foods in your diet.  To maximize the benefits add Vitamins A,C, & E supplements to your daily regime.

Ashley xoxo