Sunlight: A Natural Healer
Sunlight is essential for human health and well-being. It helps the body produce vitamin D, regulate the circadian rhythm, and improve mood, energy levels, and overall health.
Vitamin D Production
Sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D for humans. Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, a healthy immune system, and a reduced risk of some cancers.
The body produces vitamin D when it is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. The amount of vitamin D that the body produces depends on the amount of sunlight exposure, the time of day, the season, and the person’s skin color.
People with fair skin produce more vitamin D from sunlight than people with dark skin. People who live in northern climates or who prefer to stay indoors may not get enough sunlight exposure to produce enough vitamin D.
Circadian Rhythm Regulation
The circadian rhythm is the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. A part of the brain known as the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) regulates it. The SCN is sensitive to light, and it uses sunlight to set the body’s internal clock.
Sunlight in the morning helps to wake the body up. When the body is exposed to darkness at night, it helps the body to fall asleep.
Mood
Sunlight can help improve mood and reduce the risk of depression. Exposure to sunlight increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is associated with mood.
Serotonin helps to regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and pain. It also plays a role in the immune system and the cardiovascular system.
Energy Levels
Sunlight can help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. Exposure to sunlight increases the production of melatonin, a hormone that helps to regulate sleep.
Melatonin is produced in the evening when the body is dark. It helps to make the body feel sleepy. However, exposure to sunlight during the day can suppress the production of melatonin, which can help to keep the body feeling alert.
Overall Health
Getting enough sunlight can help improve overall health and well-being. Sunlight can help to reduce the risk of some chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
Sunlight can also help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of dementia.
How Much Sunlight Do You Need?
The amount of sunlight that you need varies depending on your age, skin type, and location. In general, adults should get about 15 minutes of sunlight exposure on their face, arms, and legs a few times a week.
If you have fair skin, you may need to get less sunlight exposure. If you live in a northern climate, you may need to get more sunlight exposure.
How to Protect Yourself from the Sunlight
It is important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Excessive exposure to UV rays can cause skin cancer, eye damage, and premature aging.
To protect yourself from the sun, you should wear sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat when you are outdoors. You should also avoid being in the sun during the middle of the day, when the UV rays are strongest.
Conclusion
Sunlight is essential for human health and well-being. It helps the body produce vitamin D, regulate the circadian rhythm, and improve mood, energy levels, and overall health.
It is important to get enough sunlight, but it is also important to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful UV rays. By following the tips in this blog, you can enjoy the benefits of sunlight while protecting your health.
Citations
https://europepmc.org/article/med/9627707
Pls, suggest some sunscreen cream.
My top two suggestions are Banana Boat Light As Air Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50+ and Lacto Calamine Sunshield Matte Look Sunscreen.
I would also suggest to try a few options, and see what best suits your skin.