Sunlight is essential to our health and wellbeing, yet, in recent years, the routines of daily living have shifted significantly. As a result, Australians are spending more time indoors and thus are getting less sun exposure.
But, there are also concerns over skin cancer, and the damaging effects of UV rays have led many to limit their exposure to sunlight. While protecting your skin is important, avoiding sunlight can have negative consequences for your health.
This article explores the health benefits of natural sunlight and why getting an adequate amount of sun is important.
Boosts Vitamin D levels
Sunlight is the most excellent natural source of vitamin D, a vital nutrient that helps the body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones. In addition to supporting bone health, studies have linked vitamin D to a wide range of health benefits, including lowering the risk of cancer, improving immune function, and supporting heart health.
Research suggests that spending as little as 15 minutes in the sun daily can help maintain healthy vitamin D levels.
Improves Mood
Sunlight exposure can have a positive impact on your mood and mental health. It sparks the release of serotonin, a hormone associated with feelings of happiness and wellbeing. Moreover, research has shown that sunlight exposure can reduce symptoms of depression while improving your overall mood.
Regulates Sleep
Natural sunlight plays a vital role in regulating your body’s circadian rhythms (internal clock), which helps maintain a healthy sleep-wake cycle. Therefore, adequate exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate your internal clock, making falling asleep at night and rising in the morning easier.
Supports Immune Function
Sunlight exposure can boost immune function by stimulating white blood cell production, thus helping fight off infection and disease. Additionally, research has shown that vitamin D, which your body absorbs from food and through your skin, plays a crucial role in immune function.
Reduces Risk of Chronic Diseases And Stress
Exposure to sunlight has been linked to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. In addition, being outside in the sun helps your body regulate its melatonin. As a result, you are better able to reduce your stress levels.
Improves Skin Conditions
While overexposure to sunlight can increase the risk of skin cancer, moderate sun exposure can benefit the skin. Specifically, it can help improve skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, and acne by reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Additionally, sunlight exposure can help improve the appearance of the skin by boosting collagen production, which can decrease the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
Promotes Weight Loss
Research has shown that sunlight exposure can help promote weight loss. This effect occurs as your body produces more adiponectin, a hormone that aids in regulating metabolism and reducing inflammation. Additionally, time in the sun may help lower your appetite and improve insulin sensitivity, which can contribute to weight loss.
It is important to note that while sunlight exposure can have many health benefits, overexposure can heighten the risk of skin cancer and other skin damage. Therefore, taking steps to protect your skin, such as wearing sunscreen, seeking shade during peak hours, and wearing protective clothing, is essential.
You can sustain your overall health and wellbeing by getting a healthy amount of sunlight daily. Therefore, the more you can incorporate natural sunlight into your daily life, the better. You can do so by attempting to spend a little more time outdoors. However, if that isn’t possible, you can also ensure that your property’s features facilitate maximum sun penetration for adequate exposure.
