From days at the beach to picnics in the park, outdoor activities are the highlight of summertime. But at one point or another, nearly everyone has come home red and sore from too much time in the sunshine. Dr. Edwin Y. Endo, O.D. & Associates, one of Oahu’s best optometrists, strongly recommends that clients shield sunrays with UV-blocking sunglasses. But the eye doctor cares about patients' general well-being, in addition to their ocular health. They have some tips to help protect your body, not just with sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats, but with foods that soothe sunburn:

Coffee: Not only is sunburn painful, it also can cause skin cancer. But a recent study from the National Cancer Institute suggests that caffeine-lovers who drank more than four cups of Joe daily are 20% less likely to develop deadly forms of skin cancer.

Potatoes: This starchy tuber alleviates the soreness of sunburn. Just slice or grate a raw, cold potato and apply to the skin for immediate relief.

Guavas: Did you know guavas contain five times the amount of vitamin C as an orange? This vitamin is a healing antioxidant that will help protect your skin against sunburn.

Tomatoes: The red skins hint at the protective properties of tomatoes. A recent study found that people who ate five tablespoons of tomato paste daily for three months enjoyed 25 percent more protection against sunburn.

Aloe Vera: The juice in this succulent is a tried-and-true remedy for sunburn. If you have fresh aloe, break off a leaf and apply the liquid to your skin. You can also look for bottled aloe gel at a pharmacy.

Sun-lovers should still apply suncreen before enjoying time outdoors, but Edwin Y. Endo, OD & Associates believe that incorporating these foods into your life will help protect and soothe your skin. To learn more about protecting your eyes, or to get contact lenses, fashion eyewear or color contacts, call (808) 487-5500 or visit their website.