Time for Fun in the Sun?

Despite our unseasonably cool weather of late, summer is just around the corner and that means outdoor activities like trips to the lake, tubing, and pool parties will undoubtedly get you out to bask in the sunshine and get some much needed vitamin D.

But wait, doesn't the sun cause skin cancer?  Shouldn't I be telling you slather on some SPF 50 before stepping foot outside?

Not exactly...

Unfortunately, dermatologists have made any sun exposure an evil affair that must be avoided at all costs. However, someone who gets moderate sun exposure may be healthier than
someone who avoids sun exposure for fear of cancer.  

I'm not saying you should go and buy a lifetime membership at your local tanning salon. But the truth is, even though too much sun can cause skin cancer (as well as old wrinkly and weathered looking skin), lack of sun can also cause
health problems like:

- fatigue
- restless sleep
- chronic pain
- muscle cramps
- headaches

And those are just the minor symptoms!  

Vitamin D deficiency has also been linked to increased risk of breast cancer as well as heart disease...roughly 50% of all adults in the US and Europe do not get enough vitamin D, due to lack of sun exposure!

Plus, a lack of vitamin D can cause your body to retain more FAT...

A recent study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and
Metabolism found that 59% of women who participated in the study increased their body fat and decreased strength due to a vitamin D deficiency.  Who would have guessed vitamin D had anything to do with an increase in body fat?!

So how much vitamin D do you need?

A little sun goes a long way in keeping your health optimal.However, I want you keep in mind that the amount of sun you need varies with your skin complexion. If you have a fair complexion, you may only need 10 minutes a day.  If you have a dark complexion you may need up to 2-3 hours a day of sun exposure to get enough vitamin D in your body.

If you aren't sure, or if you lifestyle doesn't permit you to get your "sun quota", try getting some sun a little at a time along with talking a vitamin D supplement.  This way you avoid the risk of getting sun burned, while still getting enough vitamin D to boost your health. I'm not a fan of supplements in general, but it's better than the alternative. And obviously if you have a sun related skin condition, or sun damaged skin, a vitamin D supplement is your best bet.

So, I f you're going to go outside, enjoy the sun! And wait a little while before putting on your sun block ;-)  

Sources:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21127286
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/04/110403205232.htm
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100305112157.htm