Keep Sunshine in Your Life
The sun - it's the core of our universe and, hopefully, part of your day. Many people look forward to the warm weather of the summer months so they can get outside and enjoy the sun. Others live in climates that offer sunshine most of the year. Knowing all the facts about sun exposure helps you enjoy yourself while staying healthy.
Sun exposure, like so many things in life, is best in moderation. In fact, a recent study shows that brief unprotected exposure to the sun during the midday hours (11:00 am to 2:00 pm) is actually very healthy for you. For people with lighter skin, 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure is healthy, and people with darker skin can be exposed for up to 40 minutes.
Sunshine and Vitamin D
In fact, the study suggests that a few minutes of unprotected sun exposure are healthy because they trigger the hormone calcitriol to produce more Vitamin D in the body. And in turn, Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphates, which is essential in the formation and strengthening of bones and teeth. Recent research also suggests that Vitamin D can also help reduce the risks of colon, breast, and prostate cancer.
Along with a few minutes of unprotected sun exposure, there are other ways to increase your Vitamin D intake.
- Eat a diet rich in whole foods and complex carbs (fatty fish like mackerel and sardines; eggs, organic milk, and other dairy products; and organ meats like liver)
- Take a top quality multi-vitamin everyday
- Check with your health care professional about Vitamin D testing
As we age, our bodies lose the ability to mobilize vitamin D, which lowers our calcium absorption rate, and creates a higher risk of osteoporosis, particularly in post-menopausal women. A lack of sufficient Vitamin D also seems to be related to so many other health concerns, like:
- Depression
- Heart Disease
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Weight Loss
- Parathyroid Problems
- Immune Functions
- Muscle pain
- Weak bones and fractures
- Low energy and fatigue
- Lowered immunity
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Sleep irregularities
The key to all these "sun tips" is, of course, to use the information to help you stay in your best health while enjoying all the benefits of being outdoors. You're in charge of your good health!
|
||
|
Yet because of the dangers of too much sun, doctors and researchers have recommended using sunscreen when you're planning to be exposed to the sun's ray for extended periods of time. All people --- no matter what their age or skin color --- need protection against the damaging rays of the sun. Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when you are outdoors --- even on cloudy day. |
|
|
||
|
||
|
Though sunshine has many positive powers, the heat from the sun also has its down side. For instance, did you know...Heat-related illnesses can strike even when it's not extremely hot? High humidity, sun exposure, exercise, and inadequate water intake can each increase risk. People who aren't used to the heat, young children, and those over age 65 are especially vulnerable. |
|
|
||