Nevertheless, the current pervasive message to stay away from the sun has negative effects on the population. Cardiovascular disease, cancer, osteoporosis, asthma, depression, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, type 1 diabetes mellitus, and other major health conditions are associated with vitamin D insufficiency. Unfortunately, vitamin D deficiency has been raising, with now 3 out of 4 American lacking adequate levels.
Did you know that Sunlight is essential for optimal health??
Benefits of Sunlight
Your body needs sun exposure in order to function at its best. Here are some benefits related to sun exposure:
Sunlight assist in the production of Vitamin D.
Increases oxygen content, translating into higher stamina and fitness ability.
It increases your endorphins, allowing you to feel those positive vibes like elation, joy, as well as serenity.
It positively affects mood disorders, such as depression.
Helps to kill bad bacteria, even disinfecting and healing wounds.
Boosts the immune system.
Positively affects the skin, dealing with acne, psoriasis, eczema and fungal infections.
Enhances anti-inflammatory activity.
Cleanses the blood and blood vessels.
Suns rays lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Sunbathing (along with implementing a whole food and supplement protocol) has been used to treat cancer patients (Dr. Zane Kime has researched and practiced for years emphasizing the necessity of sunlight).
Note that vitamin D levels [the serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D)] should be above 30 ng/mL. However, levels of 60 ng/mL help maintain superlative blood concentrations and maximize health. It is recommended to supplement with at least 1000 IU a day of vitamin D.
Soak Up more Sun!
Dr. Joseph Mercola, a famous osteopathic physician and alternative medicine proponent, emphasizes the importance of vitamin D in disease prevention.
He recommends unprotected sun exposure. Yes, unprotected in order to allow the rays to penetrate the skin.
Here are some of his healthy sunbathing tips:
Expose yourself to the sun slowly and avoid sunburn
Build up your tolerance, aiming for 20-30 minutes of exposure 2-4 times a week
Have an healthy-fat (fish oil, avocado, coconut oil, etc.) and antioxidant (all berries, green tea, green powders) rich diet to boost your internal sunscreen. This strengthens your skin cells, helping to protect you from sun damage.
The more skin displayed, the better
Best to expose yourself to the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
Keep in mind that you make much lower levels of vitamin D between November through February. So take advantage of the summer and spring periods.