I’m sure you’ve heard that sunlight can make people happier, but there is so much more to it than just that small fact. How are we all able to get the most out of our time in the sun? Well, I have the answers that you’ll definitely want to know, so you too can get the most out of your time in the sun.
Vitamin D and the Sun
Even the busy bees out there can still get the most out of their time in the sun. In only 5-15 minutes in the sun, your body is already getting a boost in vitamin D. Now how does that affect your body? Vitamin D helps your body to absorb calcium, magnesium, phosphate, and other biological nutrients.
Vitamin D also helps to keep your bones nice and strong. Laying on your back will actually produce more vitamin D since the back is a large area. The best time to lay out in the sun for vitamin D is during the middle of the day. That’s when the sun is at its strongest.
It’s also important to know that pale skin produces vitamin D faster than darker skin. So for the paler people, you don’t have to spend too long out in the sun. If you want to have more vitamin D add more fruit to your diet and check out our, “Top 10 Fruits You Need to Eat This Summer” to learn about which fruits give you more vitamin D.
So make sure you grab that cute new swimsuit and head out to the beach, pool, or just your lawn and soak up some rays. Don’t forget the sunscreen and stay hydrated!
Allergic to the Sun
Yes, people do suffer from a sun allergy or photosensitivity. Fortunately, people who have this allergy have found ways to still enjoy the sun and get the benefits that it provides.
Sun protective clothing is an important factor for people to still enjoy the sun. Look for clothes with Ultra Protection Factor (UPF) with Ultra Violet A (UVA) and Ultra Violet B (UVB) protection built-in. Some great brands to shop from are Coolibar and Mott 50.
For sunscreen protection, make sure you’re using 30 or higher SPF. It’s also recommended to avoid the sun when it’s at its highest, between 10:00 am-4:00 pm. For more information on how to get a healthy glow check out our, “3 Tips to Achieve a Healthy Glow” article.
Some studies have shown that if people with photosensitivity eat more foods with beta carotene, it can help reduce the sensitivity to the sun.
Some recommended sunscreens are thinkbaby which is rated at 50+. It has 80 minutes of water resistance and is made without harsh chemicals. If anybody knows how to protect from the sun’s rays, it’s this Australian brand, Blue Lizard Australian Sunscreen. In order to protect coral reefs, there are no harsh chemicals in the product, but it still gets the job done. It’s water-resistant for up to 40 minutes.
Get Moving and Grooving
If sitting on a towel or share for a prolonged period of time is boring to you, then try engaging in the countless outdoor activities that you can do all the while soaking up the sun’s benefits.
Walking and swimming are definitely the two most popular activities, but the options don’t stop there. You can look up to see if there are any outdoor events near you to attend. Even if it doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, branch out and try something new and enjoy the sun.
Plan a picnic with your family or friends, it can be in your backyard or at a park nearby. Not only will you get to be in the sun, but also have some quality time with your loved ones.
Be Safe, Be Healthy, Have Fun
It’s time to embrace the good that the sun provides us in a safe and healthy manner. Enjoy your time out, but always remember that safety is more important. Know how your skin reacts, which sunscreens work best for you, and what time of the day is best for you.
We can all have fun in the sun as long as we keep safety in mind. Tag us @uylmagazine to show us how you get the most out of your time in the sun.
