From skin cancer toadvanced aging, the sun has become an enemy you must always keep your eye on.

What’s behind this effect?

The study distinguishes between two types of skin coloration: “carotenoid” coloration and “melanin” coloration.

Mangoes.jpg

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are one of the most versatile veggies.

From fries to pies, sweet potatoes can be used for almost anything in the kitchen.

But did you know they can also be used to tan your skin?

Sweet potatoes

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5664031/

Carrots

Alright, nothing new here.

Instead, their high levels of carotenoids will give you that perfect, sun-kissed glow that everyone is after.

They also have loads of vitamin A, which can improve eyesight and protect your skin from sun damage.

Carrots

Shutterstock

Yep, you guessed it: Kale also has high levels of carotenoids that enhance skin tone.

So, to avoid the dehydrating and skin-burning effects of the sun, grab a slice of cantaloupe.

Pumpkin

When you think of pumpkins you probably think of jack-o-lanterns and Halloween.

Kale

Shutterstock

Along with the skin-enhancing carotenoids in this fall veggie, there are also high levels offiberper calorie.

Fiber has been proven to aid digestion and help you feel fuller longer.

This makes pumpkins a great weight loss tool as well as self-tanner!

Cantaloupe

Shutterstock

Spinach is rich in those tan-producing carotenoids while also packing heaps of vitamin K into its leaves.

Vitamin K regulates blood clotting in veins and arteries as well as promoting bone health.

This tart tropical fruit can be found on everysmoothiemenu across the nation and for good reason.

Broccoli

Working alongside those carotenoids are high levels of vitamins C and Amaking red peppers a killer skin care combo.

In addition to skin health, these vitamins do incredible things for your eyesight.

Tomatoes

You say tomato, I say tomahto.

pumpkin

Shutterstock

Tomatoes are one of the most universally used foods.

It’s in our pasta sauce, our ketchup, our salads, and more.

It’s even been used to treat HPV in some cases.

spinach

Shutterstock

However you pronounce it, we all should be working more tomatoes into our everyday diet.

Your body and your skin will thank you!

Peaches combine carotenoids with high levels of potassium, a mineral essential for proper body function.

mango

Shutterstock

Potassium helps to sustain healthy levels of blood pressure as well as maintain proper brain function.

Bonus: Eating more fruit is on our list of50 best weight loss tips!

red peppers

Shutterstock

tomatoes

Shutterstock

sliced peached

Shutterstock