Sunlight has been a powerful force throughout human evolution, and today we know that sun exposure can come with significant benefits, as well as substantial risks. On today’s show, you’re going to learn the truth about sun protection, how sunlight impacts the body and the skin, and specific foods and nutrients that can protect your skin against sun damage.  On this episode of The Model Health Show, we’re going to dive into the latest data on skin cancer, and specific medications that can make you more sensitive to sunlight. You’ll hear about potential downfalls of utilizing sunscreen, and how to take a balanced, healthy approach to sunlight exposure.  You’re also going to learn about nutritional sunscreen—we’ll cover specific foods and nutrients that can help you build healthier skin and resiliency to sun exposure. You’ll learn about key foods to avoid that can damage your skin health, leaving you more susceptible to sun damage. This episode is packed with the latest science, and actionable steps you can take to create stronger, more resilient skin.    In this episode you’ll discover: How UV light affects the skin. The connection between light and our circadian rhythms. How UV light impacts vitamin D production. Which important processes in the body are influenced by vitamin D.  What melanin is.  Two factors that can predispose you to sun damage.  How the immune system reacts to sun damage.  The prevalence of skin cancer in recent decades.  How rates of malignant melanomas have changed.  Why antibiotic usage can affect your susceptibility to sun damage. Which compounds in coffee have been shown to be protective against sun damage. The importance of sourcing high-quality coffee. How flavanols in cacao can improve skin quality. Why tomatoes can create more resilient interaction with the sun. Which hydrating food can offer a multitude of benefits in the summer months. What ellagic acid is.  Why high-quality nutrients can improve your response to the sun’s rays. How the oxidation of seed oils create inflammation.  Why excessive sugar intake can negatively impact your skin.  Which oils are best for skin health. The connection between oxybenzone in sunscreen and hormone disruption. How to gradually build your tolerance to the sun.  Items mentioned in this episode include: Foursigmatic.com/model - Get an exclusive discount on your daily health elixirs! Organifi.com/Model - Use the coupon code MODEL for 20% off + free shipping! Tedx Talk – How Chocolate Can Save the World  The Trouble with Ingredients in Sunscreen – EWG’s Guide to Sunscreens  Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:  Apple Podcasts Stitcher Spotify Soundcloud This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Four Sigmatic and Organifi.  Visit foursigmatic.com/model to get an exclusive 10% discount on mushroom and adaptogen-packed blends to improve your life.  Organifi makes nutrition easy and delicious for everyone. Take 20% off your order with the code MODEL at organifi.com/model.