New Delhi, December 11 (IANS). It may sound strange, but many studies in nutrition science indicate that certain fruits and vegetables, when eaten in excess, can cause temporary changes in skin color. The natural pigments they contain, especially carotenoids, accumulate in the body and affect the upper layer of the skin (epidermis) and can produce pale yellow, orange, or pink tones.
Experts consider this to be a “diet-induced skin discoloration,” which is completely safe and temporary.
The most prominent example is carrot. According to a report published in the American Journal of Dermatology, eating large amounts of carrots daily for several weeks can cause a condition called “carotenemia,” in which the skin starts turning a light yellow-orange color. This effect is first seen on the palms and soles of the feet and gradually disappears when the consumption of carrots is reduced.
Other carotene-rich foods like sweet potatoes and pumpkin have a similar effect. This has been described as a “healthy glow effect” in many studies. However, this change emerges only when these vegetables are consumed excessively and for a long time.
Lycopene, found in tomatoes and red bell peppers, can cause slight pinking or redness in the skin. A joint study by the University of Manchester and Newcastle University found that lycopene not only protects the skin from UV damage but can also give the skin a slight red tone in case of high intake. Similarly, frequent consumption of beetroot can bring a rosy glow to the skin due to pigments like betaine and anthocyanin.
Lutein and zeaxanthin in green leafy vegetables such as spinach can also cause a slight yellowish warmth to the skin when taken in too high amounts, while the presence of chlorophyll can give the skin a “warm tint.”
Dermatologists emphasize that all these changes are temporary and completely safe. People often mistake these for jaundice, whereas there is a big difference between this and jaundice – in carotenemia the white part of the eyes never turns yellow. This is simply due to excess accumulation of natural pigments in the body.
Experts recommend that fruits and vegetables are extremely beneficial for health, but excessive consumption of anything can create an imbalance. By taking a balanced and varied diet, both the natural color and health of the skin are protected.
–IANS
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