Summer is the time to spice it up. Many spices contain strong antioxidants that help mitigate the damage caused by sun exposure. Antioxidants help prevent skin cancer by reducing inflammation, decreasing free radicals and preventing DNA damage caused by sun exposure (known as thymine dimers).

Curry, which contains turmeric, is a strong antioxidant that has been shown to decrease cancer cell production. Basil, cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, oregano and thyme have also been shown to have strong antioxidant activity.

One study looked at the effect of heat and cooking on the antioxidant properties of these spices and found that heating these to 350°F in the cooking process for 10 minutes did not affect the efficacy of antioxidant activity. In fact, when nutmeg was heated, it became an even stronger antioxidant.

Many oils such as olive and safflower contain antioxidant activity. Other sources include red wine, green tea, dark chocolate, berries, pomegranate, almonds and coffee. Ginger has even been shown to suppress colon cancer production in rats.

Dermatologists are embracing the role of nutrition in good skin care. A diet rich in spices and fruits is a good idea to combat sun exposure, but don't skip the hat and sunscreen.

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