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By zp7op | Contributor
As the body’s largest organ, skin serves as the first line of defense against external elements and is crucial for overall health. While products like sunscreen and moisturizer support skin vitality, the journey to healthy skin begins internally, where our choices in food and beverages are significant.
One notable example is grapes: Recent studies indicate that consuming grapes may help shield healthy skin from UV light exposure, known for its harmful effects. Research published in the journal “Antioxidants” found that participants who ate 2 1/4 cups of grapes daily for two weeks displayed increased resistance to sunburn and decreased signs of UV damage at the cellular level.
This finding aligns with previous research reported in the “Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.” Additionally, grapes, with their 82% water content, provide hydration, which is vital for skin health.
To maintain skin health, consider these skin-friendly tips.
Safeguard Your Skin Outdoors
Though it may seem obvious, a primary measure to protect your skin is to apply sunscreen – experts recommend using at least SPF 30 – before you go outside and to reapply it every 1-2 hours. Additionally, think about wearing protective clothing, such as a broad-brimmed hat to shield your face and neck. If you’ll be outdoors for an extended period, wearing lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants will provide optimal coverage for your skin.
Select Nutrient-Rich, Hydrating Foods
Incorporating a variety of nutritious foods, particularly fruits and vegetables, is key to achieving a balanced diet while ensuring proper hydration. Relishing fresh or frozen grapes from California not only enhances hydration but also supplies beneficial antioxidants and polyphenols that support the health of your body’s cells, including those in the skin.
Remember to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day. For a twist, infuse your water with fruits like frozen grapes. Simply wash and dry the grapes, remove the stems, and freeze them for two hours in a single layer on a baking sheet to create flavorful ice cube alternatives.
For a simple and refreshing way to enjoy grapes and keep cool on warm days, sample the Frosty Grape Hibiscus Slush for a light, sweet, fruity frozen tea.
Control Stress Levels
Stress, whether stemming from a busy schedule or general concerns, can adversely affect skin health, sometimes worsening specific conditions. Effectively managing stress can improve your skin’s appearance among other benefits. Simple stress-relief techniques include exercising, ensuring adequate sleep, reducing your workload, prioritizing your to-do list, and making time for enjoyable activities.
For more information about grapes and health, along with delicious recipes, visit GrapesFromCalifornia.com.
Frosty Grape Hibiscus Slush
Prep time: 15 minutes, plus freezing overnight
Servings: 6 (1 cup each)
9 hibiscus tea bags
6 cups boiling water
3 cups California grape puree (green, red, black, or a combination)
4 1/2 tablespoons thawed frozen lemonade concentrate
1 1/2 tablespoons lime juice (optional)
Steep the tea bags in boiling water. After removing the tea bags, stir in the grape puree, lemonade concentrate, and lime juice if using.
Pour the mixture into ice cube trays and freeze overnight until solid.
Blend the frozen mixture until it reaches a slushy consistency, stirring as necessary.
Notes: If you don’t have ice cube trays, freeze the mixture in a larger container about 1 1/2 inches deep. Allow it to soften slightly, then break it into chunks with a knife before blending and serving.
Nutritional information per serving: 80 calories; 1 g protein; 21 g carbohydrates; 0 g fat; 0 g saturated fat; 0 mg cholesterol; 0 mg sodium; 1 g fiber.
