We have all been told that too much sun exposure can be bad for our health, which is true; however, we keep missing the message that a little sun, is actually really good for your health!
Studies have shown that 15-20 minutes of safe sun exposure without sunscreen during non-peak hours, before 10am and after 3pm, helps us absorb between 90-95% of our daily vitamin D requirement. Vitamin D is essential for absorbing calcium which keeps our bones healthy and protects against serious chronic diseases such as osteoporosis, Type II diabetes, multiple sclerosis and many types of cancer. Not only does the sun help prevent disease, but it makes us happier by boosting our body’s natural ‘happy hormone,’ serotonin.
For extended sun exposure longer than 20 minutes and during peak hours, please wear natural or organic sunscreen. Keep in mind that not all sunscreens are safe for your skin, about 80% actual contain chemicals that are harmful to the body. Be sure to use a sunscreen containing a reflective natural barrier such as zinc, and avoid sunscreens that contain the following: petroleum, preservatives, PABA and any words containing ‘octyl,’ ‘benzo’ or ‘methyl,’ all of which are known to be carcinogenic.
None of us want to feel sad or be sick this year, so spend a little time soaking up some sun!