
Foods that can boost your skin's barrier to protect you from sun
Several foods could safeguard your skin as the sun beats down this summer.A lot of people are expecting to sunbathe and absorb as much vitamin D as possible in the coming weeks.
However, prolonged sun exposure carries numerous risks, including skin damage and an elevated risk of skin cancer. Despite this, there are several methods to protect your skin and reduce the risk of severe consequences. For instance, using sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or above can significantly shield your skin from the sun's harmful Ultraviolet (UV) rays.
Your diet could also have a significant impact on how your skin responds to the sun. Certain foods contain essential nutrients that strengthen the skin's defence against UV rays and prevent premature ageing due to excessive sun exposure.
Several everyday nutrients are key to maintaining healthy skin, particularly when regularly exposed to UV rays. Vitamin A (retinol), for example, is crucial for keeping the skin and certain body parts, such as the nose, healthy.
Likewise, Vitamins B, C, and E contribute to skin health and protect skin cells from damage. Antioxidants also play a vital role in mitigating the harmful effects of free radicals, which can further harm skin cells.
Fortunately, there's a broad range of nutritious foods that can provide a good amount of all these nutrients to ensure your skin remains well-protected and healthy under the sun.
Oranges and kiwis are an incredibly rich source of Vitamin C, an ascorbic acid that plays several roles in keeping the body healthy. Most importantly, it is vital in not only helping to protect cells but also maintaining healthy skin while aiding in healing wounds.
Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant, which further allows it to protect skin cells from damage. One study published in the Acta Dermato-Venereologica journal highlighted that vitamin C could provide significant additional skin protection against damage from UV rays, especially when combined with sunscreen and Vitamin E.
According to NHS guidelines, adults aged between 19 and 64 are advised to get at least 40mg of vitamin C a day. Furthermore, the body cannot store vitamin C in the body, which means that it must be consumed every day in order to regularly reap its health benefits.
A wide variety of nuts could help contribute to skin health. This is due to the common presence of omega-3 fatty acids and Vitamin E antioxidants found in them.
Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to aid in maintaining skin health and reducing inflammation, which can be particularly beneficial if the skin has been damaged by excessive sun exposure. Furthermore, Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can safeguard the skin from free radicals while also helping it retain its elasticity, thereby minimising potential damage.
Some nuts that are rich in omega-3 or Vitamin E include:
Tomatoes and tomato-based products are packed with compounds that can shield the skin from sun damage. This is primarily due to the presence of carotenoids, such as beta-carotene (Vitamin A), which can alleviate inflammation and enhance the appearance of sun-damaged skin.
Tomatoes are also abundant in lycopene, a red-coloured carotenoid, which some research suggests could offer protection from UV rays. Lycopene is not only found in whole tomatoes but also in tomato-based products like tomato paste.

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The Irish Sun
9 hours ago
- The Irish Sun
Urgent warning over drug taken by millions – as AstraZeneca accused of ‘misreporting' safety data
MEDICS have raised concerns over a drug taken by millions to prevent heart attacks and strokes, claiming key safety data was "misreported" by its manufacturer AstraZeneca. Anti-clotting pill ticagrelor has been available on the NHS in 2011, after trials appeared to show it could prevent one in five deaths after a heart attack. 1 A BMJ investigation has raised concerns over clinical trials that spurred on the approval of ticagrelor, sold as Brilique But Ticagrelor is an antiplatelet medicine that prevents blood cells from sticking together and The twice-daily pill is prescribed to patients with acute coronary syndrome who are at greater risk of blood clots due to a history of In the UK, the drug is prescribed around 45,000 times per month on the NHS. Read more on medication Now, experts claim to have uncovered "evidence of serious misreporting" in two clinical trials that were pivotal to the drug's approval in the UK and US. These findings raise "doubts over the approval and decade long use of ticagrelor", sold as Brilique in the UK, the report authors wrote in the BMJ . In response, an AstraZeneca spokesperson told Sun Health: 'We are confident in the integrity of the trials and its evidence in support for Brilique.' Two AstraZeneca studies, known as ONSET/OFFSET and RESPOND, were published in the leading journal Circulation , reporting the drug's effects on platelet function. Most read in Uncategorized The ONSET/OFFSET trial involved 123 patients and found that ticagrelor was faster and better at preventing clots than a competitor drug. Similar results were published in RESPOND, which involved 98 patients. Early warning sign of heart attack you may notice in bed But the report authors claimed claimed 'primary endpoint' results in the two key trials - which were pivotal in determining the treatment's effectiveness - were inaccurately reported in Circulation . "We found evidence that the trials were inaccurately reported," they said. "In one instance, AstraZeneca's trial failed to show statistical significance, but was published in a leading cardiology journal as significant." It also said around a quarter of the readings from machines used in the trials were not included in the data sets, the US medicine's regulator, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) used to approve the drug. In order for ticagrelor to get approved, clinical trials had to prove that it was a better drug than competitors in a phase 3 trial. After phase 3 and drug approval, the FDA and MHRA in the UK, continues monitoring it in phase 4 trials, to see if there are any additional problems with the drug. But the BMJ analysis of two phase 2 trial results found there were instances of patients whose blood "platelet aggregation dramatically increased". This is when blood cells stick together to form clumps, which can lead to blood clots - exactly what the drug aims to prevent. Key facts about ticagrelor Ticagrelor is an antiplatelet medicine that prevents platelets - a type of blood cell - from sticking together and forming a dangerous blood clot. Taking ticagrelor can help prevent blood clots if you have an increased risk of having them because you: Have had a heart attack Have unstable angina Have had a stroke or a transient ischaemic stroke (TIA, or mini-stroke) Ticagrelor is only available on prescription. You'll usually take ticagrelor twice a day and it's often prescribed together with low-dose aspirin at the start of treatment. The main side effects of ticagrelor are getting out of breath and bleeding more easily than normal. You may have nosebleeds, heavier periods, bleeding gums and bruising. According to medicines watchdog the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), patients are advised to take the drug twice a day at 90mg for around a year after a heart attack. A lower dose of 60mg, may then be prescribed by doctors for up to a further three years. It may also be taken by those who have suffered a minor stroke or a transient ischaemic attack at 90mg alongside aspirin. Sources: NHS, NICE This is "an improbable effect for an anti-platelet drug" and "suggests an incorrect laboratory reading", the BMJ said. Assessing the readings from platelet machines used at the two trial sites, led by cardiologist Dr Paul Gurbel, investigators also found more than 60 of the 282 readings were not included in datasets submitted to the FDA. "The platelet activity levels not entered were significantly higher than those used in the Circulation papers and FDA datasets," they claimed. "It is unclear whose blood was sampled, and why those measurements did not contribute to data in either trial." The report authors conducted their investigation through interviews with trial investigators and platelet experts and access to the underlying trial data submitted to regulators. They also said that principal investigators involved in ticagrelor trials "were unreachable or declined to be interviewed". "The findings raise even deeper questions over the approval and decade long use of the drug," the authors claimed. Dr Victor Serebruany, an expert in cardiovascular pharmacology at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, who has been critical of the drug for over a decade said: "It's been obvious for years that there is something wrong with the data. "That the FDA's leadership could look past all these problems- on top of the many problems their own reviewers identified and are now being discovered by The BMJ - is unconscionable. "We all need to know how and why that happened. "If doctors had known what happened in these trials, they would never have started using ticagrelor." But a spokesperson for the Sinai Center for Thrombosis Research and Drug Development, which Dr Gurbel leads, told Sun Health has also contacted Circulation for comment. The journal did not respond to the BMJ . How to reduce your risk of heart attacks and stroke You can reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke with many of the same methods. Heart attacks and strokes, although affecting different organs of the body, are both what we call cardiovascular events. Both arise from similar underlying conditions, such as atherosclerosis —a buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries. According to the American Heart Association, the risk factors for heart attacks and strokes are largely the same: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes. Therefore, addressing these risk factors can simultaneously reduce the risk of both conditions. Here are ways you can prevent the two: Healthy diet More fruit and veg: The DASH, which emphasises fruit, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins, has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve heart health. Less fats: Too much saturated and trans fats can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of atherosclerosis. Go for healthier fats like those found in olive oil, nuts, and avocados. Limit salt: High salt intake is linked to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for both heart attack and stroke. The NHS recommends no more than 6g of salt per day for adults. Fibre: Foods high in soluble fibre, such as oats and beans, can help lower cholesterol levels. Exercise Walking, running, cycling, swimming - whatever you like, do it! Aerobic exercise can strengthen the heart and improve circulation. The NHS advises at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week. Strength training exercises can help control weight, improve cholesterol levels, and reduce blood pressure. It is recommended twice a week by the NHS. Manage blood pressure Healthy diet and exercise can help keep your blood pressure in check. But it is worth monitoring it yourself after the age of 40, at least, when the NHS invites adults for a check-up every five years. High blood pressure often has no symptoms but significantly increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Quit smoking One of the best ways to quit smoking is to use resources provided by NHS Smokefree. Support groups, medications, and other tools to help quit smoking such as vapes could be what you need to kick the habit for good - and it's free. Limit booze Excessive alcohol consumption can increase blood pressure and contribute to weight gain, which can snowball and become a heart health risk. The NHS recommends not regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week.


Irish Examiner
2 days ago
- Irish Examiner
Sally Foran: I tried Medik8's €140 'age-defying' retinal facial — here's what I thought
Medik8's new crystal retinal age-defying facial combines two of my favourite elements in skin care — retinal and facial massage. Designed in collaboration with master facialist Michaella Bolder, it merges the brand's signature retinal technology with an expert sculpting massage to tackle signs of ageing, all while remaining kind to skin. I travelled to The Spa at Johnston Estate, Co Meath for an exclusive trial of the new treatment. Here's what I thought. Who are Medik8? Medik8 are the UK's number one dermatological brand, best known for their iconic 'Crystal Retinal' range. Retinal, a form of vitamin A, works up to 11 times faster than standard retinol. It's the strongest retinoid available without prescription and is just one conversion away for the active retinoic acid (most retinols are a couple of conversaions away from retinoic acid meaning they can cause less irritation, but can also be less effective). Medik8's Crystal Retinal range has options for beginners through to seasoned retinol/retinal pros Available in six strengths, from beginners to long-time retinal users, there's an option for everyone in the range. With antibacterial properties, it is also ideal for acne-prone skin. Many experts now recommend using retinal instead of retinol, just make sure you start 'low and slow', gradually increasing strengths as your skin adjusts. I chose Medik8 when I started my retinal journey and after experiencing impressive results, it's doubtful I'll ever switch to a prescription-strength retinoid. What is the 'age defying facial'? Daniel Isaac, Medik8's chief product officer and founding partner, said the new crystal retinal age defying facial "marks a new era" for the brand. "For the first time we're bringing our award-winning retinal technology into the clinic, offering a fully customisable results-driven treatment, that combines the age-defying power of retinal and Vitamin C in one treatment" It's also notable that Michaella Boulder, a leading master facialist with over 17 years of experience, has had a hand in its design. A favourite amongst celebrities and global skincare brands, I first discovered Michaella at a Lancome event in London, and after witnessing her signature, sculpting massage techniques in action, I immediately became a fan. Facial massage has many benefits; it improves blood flow, stimulates collagen, reduces inflammation, eases tension and promotes relaxation. Boulder says she designed the bespoke massage to work "in perfect harmony with Medik8's powerful anti-ageing crystal retinal formula and enhance its results'. Combining vitamins A and C with sculpting techniques helps to optimise retinal absorption, lift facial contours, support lymphatic drainage and deliver both instant and long-term results. This unique combination promises to offer a transformative result, leaving skin smoother, firmer and clearer. My experience Sally Foran, before her facial As the facial is customisable, my treatment began with a skin analysis. After a thorough cleanse, a light lactic acid peel was applied. Next, drops of crystal retinal were mixed with 10% pure vitamin C, in a hydrating mask. These drops are fast-releasing, for a quicker hit, unlike at home retinal, which is slower releasing. The mask was massaged into my face and neck, with Boulder's sculpting techniques, enabling the ingredients to penetrate deeper into my skin, for the ultimate absorption of retinal. I left with sculpted, glowing, nourished and smoother skin, which lasted for days. I left with a customised recommended retinal routine to foll at home to futher enhance and accelerate results. Sally Foran, after her facial Recommended for anyone who wants to soften fine lines and wrinkles, enhance radiance, plump, firm, depuff or sculpt skin, it is the ideal pre-event facial. I'm already planning my next visit! The details Location: The Spa at The Johnstown Estate, Co Meath. Cost: €140 for 60 minutes, with 90 minutes of rest and relaxation included in the spa's thermal facilities Sally Foran received a complimentary treatment in exchange for a fair and honest review


The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- The Irish Sun
I lost 8st on fat jabs but felt severely hungover & was constantly on the loo – but I'm happier than ever being skinny
A MOTHER has revealed that she lost over eight stone whilst using Mounjaro, but has been accused of 'cheating' her weight loss. Not only this, but Kelsey, the mum from Glasgow, has constantly found herself on the loo and has been battling with feeling severely hungover, despite not having a drop of alcohol. Advertisement 4 A mother has opened up on her Mounjaro weight loss and her battle with diarrhoea and exhaustion Credit: 4 Kelsey also clapped back at those who accuse her of "cheating" her weight loss Credit: 4 Mounjaro is typically used to treat type 2 diabetes Credit: Getty The content creator, who has lost 8 stone 13lbs since August 2024, got candid on the unfortunate fat jab side effects, but despite this, claimed that she is 'happier than ever' being slim. Posting on social media, alongside a picture of Kelsey shortly after giving birth to her baby, she confirmed that as a result of taking But just seconds later, the brunette beauty showed off her newly slimmed down frame as she wore a cropped co-ord, held up a drink and beamed: 'I'll forever cheers to 'cheating'.' Eager to clap back at those who hail Advertisement Read more on fat jabs 'You don't know the pain of battling a body that felt like it was working against me because of Not only this, but Kelsey also claimed that prior to using She then claimed that she is 'not 'stealing' from anyone', and instead, is 'reclaiming' her health and 'showing up' for herself in a way she never thought she could. Now, Kelsey claimed that her ' Advertisement Most read in Fabulous Not only this, but she stressed that Mounjaro 'changed' her life and now she feels 'happier than ever.' Sun GP Weight Loss Jabs - Pros vs Cons But despite this, the NHS warned: 'Never take an anti-obesity medicine if it has not been prescribed to you. "These types of medicines may not be safe for you and can cause serious side effects.' Advertisement I have been up since 5:30am feeling sick, really, really sick - back and forward to the toilet Kelsey In The mother explained that she had initially been 'so lucky' when it came to experiencing She admitted: 'Oh my goodness, I feel severely hungover, I feel like I've got the worst hangover. Advertisement 'I feel so, so tired. I have been up since 5:30am feeling sick, really, really sick - back and forward to the toilet.' Kelsey explained that not only has she been dealing with Everything you need to know about fat jabs Weight loss jabs are all the rage as studies and patient stories reveal they help people shed flab at almost unbelievable rates, as well as appearing to reduce the risk of serious diseases. Wegovy – a modified version of type 2 diabetes drug Ozempic – and Mounjaro are the leading weight loss injections used in the UK. Wegovy, real name semaglutide, has been used on the NHS for years while Mounjaro (tirzepatide) is a newer and more powerful addition to the market. Mounjaro accounts for most private prescriptions for weight loss and is set to join Wegovy as an NHS staple this year. How do they work? The jabs work by suppressing your appetite, making you eat less so your body burns fat for energy instead and you lose weight. They do this my mimicking a hormone called GLP-1, which signals to the brain when the stomach is full, so the drugs are officially called GLP-1 receptor agonists. They slow down digestion and increase insulin production, lowering blood sugar, which is why they were first developed to treat type 2 diabetes in which patients' sugar levels are too high. Can I get them? NHS prescriptions of weight loss drugs, mainly Wegovy and an older version called Saxenda (chemical name liraglutide), are controlled through specialist weight loss clinics. Typically a patient will have to have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or higher, classifying them as medically obese, and also have a weight-related health condition such as high blood pressure. GPs generally do not prescribe the drugs for weight loss. Private prescribers offer the jabs, most commonly Mounjaro, to anyone who is obese (BMI of 30+) or overweight (BMI 25-30) with a weight-related health risk. Private pharmacies have been rapped for handing them out too easily and video calls or face-to-face appointments are now mandatory to check a patient is being truthful about their size and health. Are there any risks? Yes – side effects are common but most are relatively mild. Around half of people taking the drug experience gut issues, including sickness, bloating, acid reflux, constipation and diarrhoea. Dr Sarah Jarvis, GP and clinical consultant at said: 'One of the more uncommon side effects is severe acute pancreatitis, which is extremely painful and happens to one in 500 people.' Other uncommon side effects include altered taste, kidney problems, allergic reactions, gallbladder problems and hypoglycemia. Evidence has so far been inconclusive about whether the injections are damaging to patients' mental health. Figures obtained by The Sun show that, up to January 2025, 85 patient deaths in the UK were suspected to be linked to the medicines. According to Advertisement The pros also acknowledged that diarrhoea, as well as stomach pain, are just two of the 'most common side effects of Mounjaro'. Social media users react The TikTok clip, which was posted under the username @ Despite her side effects, social media users were stunned by Kelsey's incredible weight loss and many eagerly raced to the comments to express this. One person said: 'Oh my you look incredible!!' Advertisement What are the other side effects of weight loss jabs? Like any medication, weight loss jabs can have side effects. Common side effects of injections such as Ozempic include: Nausea : This is the most commonly reported side effect, especially when first starting the medication. It often decreases over time as your body adjusts. Vomiting : Can occur, often in conjunction with nausea. Diarrhea : Some people experience gastrointestinal upset. Constipation : Some individuals may also experience constipation. Stomach pain or discomfort : Some people may experience abdominal pain or discomfort. Reduced appetite : This is often a desired effect for people using Ozempic for weight loss. Indigestion : Can cause a feeling of bloating or discomfort after eating. Serious side effects can also include: Pancreatitis : In rare cases, Ozempic may increase the risk of inflammation of the pancreas, known as pancreatitis, which can cause severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting. Kidney problems : There have been reports of kidney issues, including kidney failure, though this is uncommon. Thyroid tumors : There's a potential increased risk of thyroid cancer, although this risk is based on animal studies. It is not confirmed in humans, but people with a history of thyroid cancer should avoid Ozempic. Vision problems : Rapid changes in blood sugar levels may affect vision, and some people have reported blurry vision when taking Ozempic. Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) : Especially if used with other medications like sulfonylureas or insulin. Another added: 'Wow!! Incredible transformation.' Meanwhile, a third commented: 'You're stunning!' Fatal consequences In addition to diarrhoea and stomach cramps, those debating whether to begin using The injections are licensed for patients with Advertisement 4 They are also available to assist those who are clinically obese (with a The drugs can be prescribed by a practitioner - such as a doctor, nurse or a pharmacist-independent prescriber. But increasingly, we are seeing more and more people buying them through online pharmacies, without sufficient checks. Advertisement Not only this, but figures from the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency revealed that Following the death of a man from Burton upon Trent, Staffs, who died after taking Mounjaro, his family are now Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club