Living in a sunny climate, you have probably heard plenty of sound advice about avoiding the sun as much as possible.
While the largest star in our solar system can definitely cause its share of serious health issues, current research has shown that very small amounts of sunlight – maybe 5 to 15 minutes a day – can be good for the body.
Before we get into the potential health benefits of sunshine, it’s important to note that it is still important to wear sunscreen.
Fortunately, most, if not all, of the plusses of sun can still occur when you slather on sunscreen before heading outside.
Now, let’s get ready to shine some light (bad pun fully intended) on the sun’s benefits:
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is nicknamed “The sunshine vitamin” for good reason. The UV rays of the sun help the body to create vitamin D, a nutrient which is needed for bone and muscle health, boosting the immune system, helping with cardiovascular health and more. In fact, the vitamin D your body creates after being in sunlight will help your system better absorb calcium, the mineral that is linked for having strong bones and may also help keep bone-related health conditions like osteoporosis and osteopenia at bay. As the National Center for Biotechnology Information notes, using sunscreen does not compromise vitamin D synthesis.
Circadian rhythm
Sunlight can help maintain your body’s internal clock, or circadian rhythm. Getting out into the bright early morning sunlight may help you fall asleep easier when you go to bed at night.
Improves Your Mood
Sunlight encourages your brain to create serotonin, a chemical that can help you feel more focused, in a better mood and on an even keel. The sun’s impact on mood is so powerful, physicians will use natural or artificial light to treat seasonal affective disorder.
Helps with High Blood Pressure
Getting outside for some rays may also help with hypertension, or high blood pressure. Researchers believe that UV light can increase the amount of nitric oxide in the body – this molecule has been found to cause blood vessels to widen, thus lowering blood pressure. A study did find that people who were in kidney failure and spent time in the sun had a lowered systolic blood pressure.
Increase in Energy
This benefit is a positive side effect of the sun’s impact on sleep and mood. If you sleep better, you will tend to have more energy and if you are feeling happier, you may be inspired to get more done during the day.
Ideas for Getting More Sunlight in Your Life
Fortunately, it’s pretty easy to get some extra sunlight during the day. You could eat your lunch outside around noon, park your car further away from the store or office to get some extra rays as you head inside, walk your dog, or spend time in your garden or a nearby park.
Getting out into the bright early morning sunlight may help you fall asleep easier when you go to bed at night.