Is Getting Some Sun Actually Good for You?
Scientific wisdom has taught us for the last couple generations that exposure to the sun is a serious health risk and should be avoided. That is, unless you have to be out for some reason in the noonday sun, and then you better use some ultra-high SPF suntan lotion and wear a hat. Otherwise, you are setting yourself up for developing the most deadly form of skin cancer, malignant melanoma. Why, even the name sends shivers down your spine.
As a result, many people spend as much time indoors as possible during the summer months in order to reduce their risks of sun overexposure, wrinkled skin and skin cancer. But should they?
Believe it or not, the sun can actually be good for you. Even U.S. scientist Richard Setlow, who initially warned of the dangers of sun exposure and increased risk of skin cancer now says, “Not so fast!” Further research now shows that moderate exposure to the sun provides many health benefits that outweigh the risks.
Our bodies need Vitamin D and sunlight provides a natural source of it. Vitamin D protects against deadly forms of internal cancer, including those of the breast, lung, colon and prostate. It also is a key vitamin in the prevention of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, schizophrenia and multiple sclerosis and a fundamental ingredient for bone health. In fact, fractures resulting from Vitamin D deficiencies can be a cause of sciatica .
How do you get the health benefits without setting yourself up for the negative consequence of skin cancer?
Moderation is the key. Spend 20 minutes in the sun, with your hands, arms and face exposed, to get the necessary daily dose of Vitamin D. If you remain any longer, wear a hat and apply high SPF sunscreen frequently. A good rule of thumb is to spend time outdoors when your shadow is longer than your height. During the cooler months of the year, increase your Vitamin D intake with supplements and foods, such as fish and liver.
Scientists are also being challenged to create better sunscreens that continue to filter out the damaging radiation (UVA rays), while allowing more Vitamin D-stimulating radiation (UVB rays) to soak through the skin. Until then, moderation is the key.
