Eat your fruit and veg for a golden tan

Eating vegetables gives you a healthy tan according to new research from the University of Nottingham.

The study, led by Dr Ian Stephen, showed that eating a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables gives you a healthier golden glow than the sun.

The research, published in the Journal Evolution and Human Behaviour, showed that instead of tanning yourself in the sun, the best way to look good is to munch on carrots and tomatoes.

Dr Stephen and his team found people who eat more portions of fruit and vegetables per day have a more golden skin colours thanks to substances called carotenoids.

Carotenoids are antioxidants which soak up damaging compounds produced by the wear and tear of everyday life.

Dr Stephen acknowledged most people think the best way to improve skin colour is to get a suntan but his research shows eating lots of fruit and vegetables is more effective.

“If you want a healthier and more attractive skin colour, you are better off eating a healthy diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables than lying in the sun,” said Dr Stephen.

This study looked at Caucasian faces, however the researchers also describe a study which suggests the effect may exist cross-culturally.
 

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• food benefits
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• fruit
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• health
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• healthy eating
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• research
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• vegetables