Carrots are rich in a substance called beta-carotene. And eating large amounts of carrots -- or other veggies known for beta-carotene like yellow squash -- can lead to an elevated level of carotene in the body. Tan BL, et al. (2018). Antioxidant and oxidative stress: A mutual interplay in age-related diseases. DOI: Using a sunscreen or tanning oil that contains beta carotene will help you tan when your skin absorbs the beta carotene. You will immediately see a golden glow on your skin when you apply these products, because of the pigment. This isn’t actually a tan but looks amazing whilst you’re sunbathing.

So, is it better to take a supplement or try to eat hundreds of carrots? Beta carotene tan dosage is much easier to control if you take a supplement, which will have been designed to give you the right amount. Beta carotene is also very sensitive to degeneration through light, so supplements avoid this problem.That said, studies have not shown that supplements have the same effect as eating fresh vegetables. Frozen, boiled, unsalted turnip greens contain 10593 mcg of beta-carotene per 164 g. Boiled, unsalted turnip greens have 6588 mcg per 144 g cup. 19) Watercress When done correctly, sun exposure can be a wonderful thing for us, initiating the production of vitamin D, a much needed nutrient of crucial importance for our health.

Raw dandelion greens have been found to contain 5220 mcg of beta-carotene per cup, while boiled dandelion greens may have anywhere from 4100 to 9100 mcg per cup. So in addition to excellent amounts of vitamin K, hepatoprotective properties and digestive benefits, dandelion greens also help us tan. 11) Kale More importantly, it can lead to skin cancer – it increases your risk of developing basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma and melanoma. Summary Vitamin A is an essential vitamin for everyone and is vital to support the health of your eyes. It also stimulates white blood cell production and activity and regulates cell growth and division.

In general, health experts usually recommend eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, which are full of vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds that work together to support health over taking beta carotene supplements. Summary Prunes concentrate great amounts of essential nutrients, notably dietary minerals. Both plums and prunes contain powerful anthocyanin antioxidants and boast excellent laxative properties. 16) Spinach Our products can be used in the sun or on sunbeds, it can be applied over SPF lotion. Contains wheat germ oil. If you have skin sensitivities or are gluten intolerant, please consult your dermatologist prior to use.

This is not something that is going to happen overnight so you will need to make a commitment for at least 1 month before you make any conclusions. BE PATIENT!

Is it dangerous to eat too much beta-carotene?

Before we look at whether beta carotene really is helpful for tanning in more detail, let’s explore what it is and what it does in our body. What is Beta Carotene? Over time, eating extremely high amounts beta carotene can result in a harmless condition called carotenodermia, where the skin turns a yellow-orange color. Kim E-k, et al. (2017). Associations between fruit and vegetable, and antioxidant nutrient intake and age-related macular degeneration by smoking status in elderly Korean men. DOI: If you are concerned about your skin health or need professional advice, speak to a medical professional. Take Home Message