The sun is the star that allows life on our planet Earth. It provides us with light and heat, which in turn are essential for human development and for maintaining the Earth’s ecosystem. The sun is also essential for our physical and mental well-being.
Sun exposure is essential for the production of vitamin D, which is crucial for strengthening bones and teeth. Vitamin D also helps with calcium absorption in the body and is vital for keeping the immune system healthy. It is produced when the skin comes into contact with ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun.
However, despite all the benefits, overexposure to the sun’s rays can lead to health problems such as premature skin aging , sunburn, eye damage, and even skin cancer. It is therefore important to discover how to enjoy the benefits of the sun without compromising your health.
Health benefits of sunbathing
- Strengthens bones and prevents osteoporosis
Vitamin D, naturally produced by the body through sun exposure, is essential for the body’s absorption of calcium, which strengthens bones and joints, preventing fractures and osteoporosis.
- treats psoriasis
Exposure to sunlight can be beneficial for people suffering from psoriasis, as it contains ultraviolet B (UVB) rays, which help reduce inflammation and redness of the skin affected by the condition. However, it is important that sun exposure is controlled and guided by a doctor.
- Improves the immune system
Vitamin D produced by sun exposure is key to strengthening the immune system, as it helps lower the risk of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
Regular exposure to the sun can help lower your risk of heart disease by helping to lower blood pressure and improve blood circulation .
- Helps weight loss
Exposure to the sun stimulates the production of hormones that control hunger, such as leptin and ghrelin, in addition to increasing the production of vitamin D, which can contribute to weight loss .
Mental health benefits of sunbathing
- improves mood
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and lowers anxiety and stress, and exposure to the sun aids in its creation.
- increases energy
Sunlight increases the production of vitamin D, which is important for energy production in the body. In addition, the sun helps regulate the body’s circadian rhythm, which can improve sleep quality and increase physical and mental disposition during the day.
- Reduces the risk of depression
Sunshine can help fight depression, as serotonin and melatonin production is directly linked to mood and mental well-being .
- improves cognition
Exposure to sunlight can improve cognitive function, such as memory and reasoning, as well as increase attention and concentration.
How to enjoy the benefits of the sun without compromising your health
- Choose the best time to sunbathe
The best time to sunbathe is before 10 am and after 4 pm, when UVB rays are weaker and less dangerous. Avoid sunbathing between these times, as excessive exposure can be harmful to health.
- Use sunscreen with adequate protection factor
Always use sunscreen , even on cloudy days, with an adequate protection factor for your skin type. Sunscreen should be applied about 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied every two hours.
- Take the sun in moderation
Do not expose yourself to the sun for a long period of time. Daily exposure of 10 to 15 minutes is enough for the production of vitamin D, so avoid sunbathing in excess.
- Protect skin and eyes
Wear light, comfortable clothing that covers most of your body, and a hat and sunglasses to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s rays. This is especially important for people with fair and sensitive skin.
- hydrate yourself
Drinking plenty of water and keeping your body hydrated is essential to enjoy the benefits of the sun without harming your health. Dehydration can be faster and more intense during sun exposure.
Sun exposure can have many physical and mental health benefits, including protecting against heart disease, improving cognition and mood, and preventing osteoporosis. However, it is important to sunbathe in moderation and always protect yourself against UVB rays by using sunscreen, light clothing and sunglasses. Enjoying the benefits of the sun in moderation can be a great way to improve your quality of life and overall health.
