#Japan #Tokyo #Skin Health #UV Protection #Vitamin E

Sun Protection and Vitamin E Seminar Overview

On August 3, 2026, Ezaki Glico Co., Ltd. hosted a seminar focused on the theme of "Sun Protection x Vitamin E" at LIFULL Table in Chiyoda, Tokyo. This seminar gathered media professionals and featured expert speakers including weather forecaster Ai Izawa, dermatologist Tomoe Tajiri, and nutritionist Ai Yoshino. The focus was on current UV radiation conditions, the damages caused by UV rays, and the role of antioxidants in nutrition.

Insights from Weather Forecaster Ai Izawa

Weather forecaster Ai Izawa brought attention to the increasing intensity of summer heat, highlighting that temperatures exceeding 40°C are now common. With the UV exposure rate increasing at approximately 4.6% every decade, she raised the critical question: "While we are aware of heatstroke measures, are we adequately addressing UV protection?" Her insights emphasized that UV exposure is not only a concern from direct sunlight but also includes reflections from surfaces. She warned against the complacency in UV protection during cloudy days or when in shaded areas, stressing that all generations, from children to the elderly, must prioritize UV protection as a crucial aspect of health care.

Dermatologist Tomoe Tajiri on Skin Longevity

Dr. Tomoe Tajiri shed light on the concept of skin longevity, or "skin health span," a burgeoning health awareness in the era of longer lifespans. She mentioned that around 80% of skin aging is attributed to external factors like UV damage. According to Dr. Tajiri, combating oxidative stress caused by UV rays requires a combination of external protection and internal nourishment, underscoring the importance of continuous and informed skincare.

Dr. Tajiri elaborated on the body’s inherent antioxidant capabilities, which decline with age, necessitating dietary interventions to maintain them. She highlighted Vitamin E as a critical antioxidant, explaining its function in protecting skin cell membranes and sebaceous layers from oxidative damage, acting as a protective barrier. Her conclusion was that to maintain skin health throughout life, one needs to be mindful of UV protection while ensuring adequate intake of nutrients like Vitamin E.

Nutritionist Ai Yoshino on Vitamin E and Summer Recipes

Nutritionist Ai Yoshino discussed the essential role of Vitamin E, especially during summer when sun exposure is significant. She explained that since the body cannot produce Vitamin E, it must be ingested through diet, particularly during the hotter months.

Among the various sources of Vitamin E, Yoshino highlighted almonds as an excellent option. She suggested almond milk as a versatile ingredient that is easy to incorporate into meals and can be beneficial in both drinks and dishes. To round off her presentation, she shared easy summer recipes that utilize almond milk, making it simple for families to boost their Vitamin E intake.

Recommended Recipes Featuring Almond Milk

• - Curry-flavored Rice with Corn and Almond Milk: A flavorful dish that combines the richness of almond milk with spices, ideal for summer meals made easily in a rice cooker.
• - Pork Stew with Almond Milk: This method ensures tender pork with a deep, rich flavor, all thanks to the almond milk used in cooking.
• - Tartar Sauce with Almond Milk for Fried Salmon and Vegetables: A healthy twist on a classic, enriched with olive oil for additional flavor.
• - Vegetable and Chicken Soboro Noodles with Almond Milk Broth: A refreshing dish combining vibrant vegetables, chicken, and almond milk broth for a light meal on hot days.
• - Avocado Banana Ice Cream with Almond Milk: A quick and nutritious summer treat, blending ripe avocado and banana with almond milk for a deliciously healthy dessert.

By the end of the seminar, it was clear that Vitamin E plays a pivotal role in protecting the skin against UV damage, especially during summer months. The importance of combining external protection with proper dietary intake was a recurring theme throughout the discussions, signaling a proactive approach to skin health among all generations.