SUNLIGHT AND SEROTONIN
You may ask, “What are the benefits of exposing myself to sunlight, since there is so much warning in the world against sunlight exposure?” But did you know the right balance can have lots of mood-lifting benefits? Most noteworthy, exposure to sunlight is associated with boosting mood and helping a person feel calm and focused. (because the brain releases the hormone called serotonin). Most of my blog today is written by Rachael Nall and taken from the following link.
http://But did you know the right balance can have lots of mood-lifting benefits?
SUNLIGHT AND MENTAL HEALTH
Exposure to sunlight can benefit major depression and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Without enough sun exposure, your serotonin levels can dip. Low levels of serotonin are associated with a higher risk of major depression with seasonal pattern (formerly known as seasonal affective disorder or SAD). This is a form of depression triggered by the changing seasons.
BUILDING STRONG BONES
Exposure to the ultraviolet-B radiation in the sun’s rays causes a person’s skin to create vitamin D. According to one study from 2008Trusted Source, in a 30-minute period while wearing a swimsuit, people will make the following vitamin D levels:
- 50,000 international units (IUs) in most Caucasian people
- 20,000 to 30,000 IUs in tanned people
- 8,000 to 10,000 IUs in dark skinned people
The vitamin D made thanks to the sun plays a big role in bone health. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to rickets in children and bone-wasting diseases like osteoporosis and osteomalacia.
According to WHOTrusted Source, getting anywhere from 5 to 15 minutes of sunlight on your arms, hands, and face 2-3 times a week is enough to enjoy the vitamin D-boosting benefits of the sun. Note that the sun must penetrate the skin. Wearing sunscreen or clothing over your skin won’t result in vitamin D production.
But if you’re going to be outside for more than 15 minutes, it’s a good idea to protect your skin. You can do that by applying sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15. Wearing a protective hat and shirt can also help.
EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT CAN PREVENT CANCERS
Although excess sunlight can contribute to skin cancers, a moderate amount of sunlight actually has preventive benefits when it comes to cancer.
According to researchers, those who live in areas with fewer daylight hours are more likely to have some specific cancers than those who live where there’s more sun during the day. These cancers include:
EXPOSURE TO SUNLIGHT CAN HELP HEAL
According to the World Health Organization (WHO)Trusted Source, sun exposure might help treat several skin conditions, too. Doctors have recommended UV radiation exposure to treat:
While light therapy isn’t for everyone, a dermatologist can recommend whether light treatments will benefit your specific skin concerns.
NOW THAT YOU KNOW THE BENEFITS OF SUNLIGHT
Get on outside and GET SOME SUNSHINE ON YOUR SHOULDERS. It will make you happy!
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Karen Moilliet — March 12, 2021
This is really good. Would you be ok if I add some of it to something I’m writing up to promote my Monat’s sun screen? I will of course credit you as the author.
So glad it resonated with you. I give you permission. However please credit Rachel Nall as I took it from her write up and credited her with it.