Vitamin D plays a major role in several important bodily processes. And yet, most of what we hear about are the harmful effects of too much UVB. Short UVB wavelengths (those that cause sunburn) do damage DNA and suppress the skin’s immune system. But, there’s a whole side of sun exposure that most of us are still in the dark on 🌥
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Here are some interesting facts about sun exposure:
☀️ It kicks off the chemical and metabolism chain reaction that produces Vitamin D - many people have low levels of vitamin D. [Harvard Health Publishing]⠀
☀️ Vitamin D is critical in your body’s ability to promote the absorption of calcium, directly impacting bone health.
☀️ Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a very real thing, and sun exposure helps to reverse it!
☀️ Research is starting to show a correlation between sun exposure and lower blood pressure, appetite, a reduced risk for obesity and type 2 diabetes, and possibly some autoimmune diseases. [Consumer Reports]
☀️ According to a 20-year study in The Journal of Internal Medicine, sun exposure may be linked to longevity - showing that those who spent more time in the sun lived 6 months to 2 years longer than those with less sun exposure.
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By following a few of these best practices when it comes to time in the sun, you can cash in on the benefits outlined above:
⚠️ Just 10 minutes of unprotected solar exposure (depending on the UV index) can produce sufficient levels of vitamin D - which is enough for most people. [Consumer Reports]
⚠️ ALWAYS avoid sunburn. Even a little bit of ‘pink’ in the skin indicates damage.
⚠️ Be sure to apply sunscreen to your face and hands, which are at higher risk for skin cancer. If you’re going to be out for an extended period of time, a hat and sunglasses are also a good idea.

This is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.