Thread: Mediterranean Diet May Help Prevent Skin Cancer

In a study published by Dr. Niva Shapira of Tel Aviv University's School of Health Professions, showed that diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, like Mediterranean diet, can help protect from skin cancer.

Here a quote from the article at Science Daily:

The sun's rays damage both the skin and the immune system by penetrating the skin and causing photo-oxidation, she explains, affecting both the cells themselves and the body's ability to repair any damage. Her prescription is to "go Greek" with foods such as olive oil, fish, yogurt and colorful fruits and vegetables to fight the oxidizing effect of the sun, as well as regular applications of sunscreen and appropriate body coverings such as hats, beach coverups, and other sportswear.

And there are some foods to avoid, she points out. Go light on red meat, processed foods, and alcohol (red wine is preferable), and be wary of foods that contain the photosensitizing compound psoralen, such as parsley, celery, dill, cilantro and figs.

Those already in Mediterranean Diet, this is great news for you. Those who are not, including me, should eat more foods rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.

colorful fruits and vegetables? Like what exactly. My meals are not "greek style". My vegetables are mostly steamed or stir fried. As for fruits, I mostly eat apples, pears, pineapples, watermelon and melon. Those are good enough right?

That's good sasa.. You can add more antioxidant rich vegetables and omega 3 rich foods. Summer is almost over but it doesn't mean we are safe from skin cancer.

That's true kathy. But I guess we should be safe as long as we don't get too exposed to the sun. There are safe hours though, around 6am - 9am. Don't get too exposed around 12pm-3pm. The sun is at it's peak during those times.

This is interesting to know. I went to the dietician today and she put me on a revised mediterranean diet and im supposed to eat about 1600 calories a day. It's good to know that this diet may help with other things as well!

That's great! I have to make a few changes in my diet to make it more "mediterranean-style". 1600 a day? How much calories a day do you consume before that? Mine is 1500 a day.