Sunlight exposure has many health benefits.
Not only do we get Vitamin D from the sun, but sunlight exposure affects the hormones that regulate our sleep and wake cycles, including serotonin, melatonin, and cortisol, improves mood, and helps with the regulation of the sex hormones.
Yes, sunburns are harmful to your health and we want to avoid them!
But through healthy daily habits and good nutrition, you can decrease
your sensitivity to the sun.
Daily habits to support sun tolerance:
Build your tolerance to the sun by getting out in the earlier & later parts of the day, when the sun is at a low angle in the sky, without sunscreen or sunglasses.
Sun exposure during these times of the day is crucial for setting your sleep/wake cycle & the production of the hormones involved in sleep and energy. The red light at this time of day also helps to prepare the skin to handle the sun at times when the rays are more intense.
Mid parts of the day, when the sun is most intense, limit your time to exposure without sun protection (clothing, hats, and non-chemcial sunscreen with zinc oxide) to prevent burn.
But, keep in mind that there are many benefits to getting sun exposure during this time of the day as well, including the production of sex hormones and improving mood. Allow for small amounts at your tolerance, without burning.
Nutrition to support sun tolerance:
Avoid consuming processed seed & vegetable oils, refined carbohydrates and sugars, and alcohol, all of which increase inflammation and oxidative stress in the body and will increase susceptibility to sun sensitivity.
Do consume foods rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and healthy fats like:
grass fed meats & dairy, pasture raised eggs, nuts, coconut & olive oil, berries, & green tea.
If you're interested in improving your health and fitness, send me a message to chat about how I can help!
Comments