Researched and written by Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist, Cancer Coach, Retired Pharmacist

Citrus fruits are celebrated for their health benefits, but did you know they might pose a hidden risk when combined with sun exposure? Recent studies have raised concerns about certain compounds in citrus fruits that could increase the risk of skin cancer. Here's what you need to know to stay safe while enjoying the sunshine.

The Cancer Culprit: Psoralens and Furocoumarins

Citrus fruits, such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, contain naturally occurring compounds called psoralens and furocoumarins. These compounds are known as photocarcinogens, meaning they can interact with sun ultraviolet (UV) radiation to cause DNA damage in skin cells. This damage may increase the risk of developing skin cancers, including basal cell carcinoma (BCC)[i] [ii]  [iii], squamous cell carcinoma (SCC),[iv] and melanoma.[v] One population study found one serving per day of an increase in total citr...