Are you afraid of being out in the sun? Here are some incredible benefits of the sun for your health and overall well-being.
Admittedly, excessive sun exposure can cause sunburn and trigger early signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles. But did you know sunlight is central to our existence and can completely transform your physical and mental health? To maintain your vitamin D levels and reap the benefits of the sun without jeopardizing your safety, you just need to find the right balance. Here are some reasons why you should step out to reap the benefits of the sun:
Improves mood
Did you know that spending time in the sun can have a significant impact on your mood? Serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite and sleep, is produced in response to sunlight. Depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that manifests during the winter when sunlight becomes scarce, are both linked to low levels of serotonin. So, step out in the sun to improve your mood and fight off depressive and negative feelings.
Boosts vitamin D production
One of the most popular benefits of the sun is its ability to stimulate the production of vitamin D in your body. But how? When UVB rays hit human skin, they interact with the 7-DHC protein to produce vitamin D3. Are you wondering why vitamin D is so crucial for your body? It helps with a number of important biological processes. Its benefits include:
- Promoting healthy bones
- Regulating calcium levels
- Reducing inflammation
- Supporting the immune system
- Maintaining glucose metabolism
Just 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure each day is sufficient to meet our daily needs for vitamin D.
Improves sleep quality
Did you know that spending time in the sun can help you get a restful sleep? This is because your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, is greatly influenced by sun exposure. Because it raises your melatonin levels, exposure to sunlight in the morning may help with sleep. When it gets dark, melatonin aids in promoting sleep by regulating the body's circadian rhythm. According to research, getting an hour of natural light in the morning may improve your sleep.
Reduces the risk of several chronic diseases
Getting enough sunlight can also help lower the risk of developing chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer. Studies have shown that people who regularly expose themselves to the sun have a lower risk of developing these conditions, and vitamin D has been shown to play a role in preventing these conditions. So soak in the sunshine to keep the diseases at bay and be the healthiest version of yourself.
Boosts energy levels
Do you feel exhausted and low on energy all day long? You might need to amp up your daily dose of sunshine. Improved energy levels and focus are some of the most popular benefits of the sun. The hormone cortisol, which promotes feelings of alertness and wakefulness, is released in response to sunlight. This is why you feel more energized and energetic on sunny days.
With so many incredible benefits of the sun, you should not be hiding from it. Soak in the sunshine to keep your body and mind healthy. However, this does not imply that you should spend the entire day in the sun without adequate sun protection–it can lead to negative consequences. Instead, exposing your face and arms to the sun for fifteen minutes a day, three days a week, is an efficient way to ensure that your body is getting enough vitamin D.
To learn more about the benefits of the sun for your mind and body, book a consultation with Dr. Shah here.