Hello lovelies! We all know the dangers associated with too much sun exposure: from cancer, to pigmentation to premature ageing. But did you know that too little sun, or lack of sun exposure was also dangerous? Who would’ve thought! 🌞
As we try to protect ourselves from harmful UV rays this summer, it’s good to remember that the sun is actually necessary for our wellbeing.
“Vitamin D is produced by our body when we expose our skin to the sun. Also known as the “sunshine vitamin” explains Dr. Costi, “and it plays a very big role in the proper functioning our organs”.
Vitamin D and the hormone leptin work together to control body weight.
Leptin which is produced in fat cells, sends signals to the brain to let a person know when they’re full. Vitamin D helps to get this signal get to the brain, so when it is lacking, this cycle might be broken and as result the person will not feel full- therefore resulting in overeating and weight gain.
The best solution would be to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine while going outside for a bit of “safe” sun exposure.
Exposure to UV-B rays is actually a great way to treat many skin ailments like psoriasis and acne.
Psoriasis for example, is a malfunction of the immune system which attacks its own body. When vitamin D is introduced, it can shift the whole system in a positive way.
A healthy dose of vitamin D is therefore a great boost for your overall skin’s health.
“Of course keep in mind that we are only advocating a “safe” and “healthy” dose of sun” says Dr. Costi. “We do not want to risk overexposure which might lead to cancer.”
Bone health is long associated with Calcium but also vitamin D: these two work in combination as calcium is absorbed in the small intestines with the help of vitamin D.
When you don’t get enough of the sunshine vitamin it leads to decrease of calcium absorption and therefore bone pain, muscle weakness, and even rickets and osteoporosis.
If you’re not getting your nutrients from natural sources, Dr. Costi recommends that you add supplements to your diet.
Shocking! It has been shown that vitamin D is associated with better overall survival of colon cancer patients.
Insufficient amounts of vitamin D in the cells can eventually lead to the development of colorectal cancer. Vitamin D levels determine the survival and growth of cancer cells.
We recommend that you test your vitamin D levels today by taking a blood test.
These days, especially after spending so much time in quarantine, we can’t stress enough how important it is to go outside for a bit of sun.
Being stuck inside in front of the computer and the TV is no good! Lack of natural light is actually a serious major reason for depression. Even if it’s just for a walk or a car ride, a bit of sun has the power to boost your mood.
If you’re going to enjoy a bit of sun, remember to wear sunscreen SPF30+ and also proper clothing, a hat and sunglasses.
If your doctor decides to prescribe you a vitamin D supplement, you must respect the dosage and follow the instructions. An excessive amount of vitamin D could actually do more harm than good.
So now are you ready to go outside for some fun in the sun? You have all the tools to make the healthiest decisions and reap all the benefits of our beautiful weather.
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