What are photosensitive foods
In recent years, with the popularity of healthy diet, photosensitive foods have gradually become the focus of people's attention. So, what are photosensitive foods? What effects do they have on the human body? This article will give you detailed answers.
1. Definition of photosensitive food

Photosensitive foods are those that, when ingested, increase skin sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. This type of food usually contains photosensitive substances, such as furanocoumarins, which may cause skin inflammation, pigmentation and other problems when exposed to sunlight.
2. Common photosensitive foods
| food category | specific food | Main photosensitive ingredients |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetables | Celery, coriander, fennel, spinach | Furanocoumarins |
| Fruits | lemon, orange, grapefruit, fig | coumarins |
| Seafood | Crabs, shrimps, shellfish | Histamine and other substances |
| Others | Amaranth, shepherd's purse, gray cabbage | Various photosensitive ingredients |
3. The influence of photosensitive foods
1.photosensitivity dermatitis: Exposure to sunlight after eating photosensitive food may cause skin redness, swelling, itching and other symptoms.
2.Pigmentation: Long-term intake of photosensitive foods and exposure to ultraviolet rays may aggravate the formation of spots.
3.Phototoxic reaction: In severe cases, phototoxic reactions such as blisters and skin ulcers may occur.
4. How to safely eat photosensitive foods
| Things to note | specific suggestions |
|---|---|
| Eating time | It is best to eat it during dinner and avoid being exposed to the sun immediately after eating it during the day. |
| Consumption | Control your intake and don’t eat a large amount at one time |
| protective measures | Avoid strong sunlight within 2-3 hours after consumption, or wear sunscreen |
| Special groups | People with sensitive skin and photosensitive diseases should be more cautious |
5. Misunderstandings about photosensitive foods
1.Myth 1: All citrus fruits are photosensitive foods: In fact, only some citrus fruits contain more photosensitive ingredients.
2.Myth 2: Photosensitive foods cannot be eaten at all: As long as you pay attention to the consumption time and sun protection measures, you can still consume it in moderation.
3.Myth 3: Photosensitive foods can cause permanent skin damage: In most cases, symptoms will subside after stopping consumption and avoiding sun exposure.
6. Interaction between photosensitive foods and photosensitive drugs
Certain drugs, such as tetracycline antibiotics and sulfa drugs, are also photosensitive, and taking them with photosensitive foods may increase the risk of photosensitivity reactions. Special attention should be paid to diet during medication.
| Common photosensitizing drugs | possible interactions |
|---|---|
| Tetracycline antibiotics | Eating citrus fruits together may aggravate photosensitivity reactions |
| Sulfa drugs | Be cautious when eating with light-sensitive vegetables such as celery |
| certain antihistamines | May enhance photosensitivity of seafood |
7. Summary
Although photosensitive foods may bring some photosensitivity risks, they are not completely inedible. By understanding the types of common photosensitive foods, mastering scientific eating methods, and taking sun protection measures, you can enjoy delicious food while protecting your skin health. For special groups of people or those who are taking photosensitivity drugs, it is recommended to consult a doctor or nutritionist for professional advice.
I hope that through the introduction of this article, you can have a more comprehensive understanding of photosensitive foods and make smarter choices in your daily diet.
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