The 3 positive effects of the summer sun

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It’s that time of year again! Summer is here, and with it, high temperatures. How do you plan on spending your days? Man with his dog at sunset

Summer usually means vacation. Whether you’re planning a staycation or adventuring someplace new, we are sure you will be practicing sun safety. After all, experts have advised us for years to limit our sun exposure and make sure to take measures to protect ourselves from UV rays.

All of which is true, but we want to share the positive effects that time in the sun can actually provide to you.

1. Sun exposure jumpstarts our body into producing vitamin D. Our bodies actually need the sun’s ultraviolet rays to produce vitamin D, as this nutrient does not occur in our body without it. Vitamin D is essential for the growth and strengthening of our bones and muscles, plus plays an important role in developing our immune system.

2. The sun helps us to feel happy. There is a reason that overcast skies and rainy weather is called “gloomy;” because the opposite is true of opposite weather. Sunlight stimulates our brain to produce those “feel good” chemicals.

3. Sun exposure might help in the treatment of some skin conditions. Experts of the World Health Organization (WHO) have recommended UV to treat conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. UV radiation also helps treat babies who are jaundiced.

While these positive effects are wonderful, remember that, in general, it’s recommended that you spend no more than 20 minutes in fully exposed sunlight without sunscreen at a given time. Remember to check the UV index of the day and keep safe.