We spend a lot of time worrying about the sun and it’s harmful effects. Sure over exposure can cause skin cancer, including melanoma. But did you know how important it is for our bodies to have some healthy sun exposure? We get Vitamin D from the sun. Vitamin D makes our moods better, helps bones and teeth growth, and promotes immune function and even prevents certain types of cancer!
You don’t need to burn your skin to get a healthy dose of Vitamin D. In fact, in half the the time it takes for your skin to get a little bit of color is enough to allow your body to produce the vitamin D it needs. Despite sun exposure, many of us are still Vitamin D deficient. Factors like the type of skin (burns easily, or tans quickly), wearing sunscreen, where you live and the time of year all effect our vitamin D production.
Although sun exposure is the best and most natural way to get Vitamin D, you can take Vitamin D supplements if you are deficient. A simple blood test can tell you if you need to supplement. Because vitamin D is fat soluble, if you take too much, our bodies will have a hard time getting rid of it. It is not recommended that adults take more then 10,000 IU/day. Also, Vitamin D3 is the D vitamin most often recommended since sun exposure causes our body to produce D3. As always, consult your doctor before taking any supplements to ensure it will not interact with any other medicine you are taking.
So go enjoy a healthy day in the sun and think of all the benefits you can enjoy!
