Step into the Light

Despite what you might have heard, daily moderate sun exposure really is good for you.

But thanks to an on-going campaign by the American Academy of Dermatology (ADD) most Americans either avoid exposure to the sun all together. Or they cover themselves from head to toe in potentially dangerous chemicals, more commonly known as sun screen.

Now everyone agrees that too much sun (or too much of anything for that matter) can be harmful. But personally, I think this whole anti-sun campaign has gone a little overboard.

And the end result of all this negative press is millions of American are walking around right now with a severe vitamin D deficiency.

Actually – vitamin D deficiency from lack of sunlight (not a nutritional deficiencies) is the most common vitamin deficiency plaguing Americans. right now.

It’s currently estimated that over 85% of the U.S. population has less than optimum levels – which opens the door to a number of little known health risks.

Until recently everyone thought a vitamin D deficiency was no big deal -- except in the very extreme cases that resulted in rickets (a serious degenerative bone disease). But we know a lot more today...

Come to find out vitamin D is a vital element used by every cell in our bodies. Among other things it plays a key roll in preventing osteoporosis. And even a minor deficiency can increase your risk of contracting a very serious medical condition like heart disease, high blood pressure, and breast and/or prostate cancer.

Experts estimate that we need about 1,000 units of vitamin D per day – and it’s next to impossible to get that amount from the food you eat. Especially if you eat a typical American diet.

Your alternatives are to consume enormous amounts of vitamin D supplements – but a more natural option like getting a little sun exposure (say 15 minutes) every day would give you the same benefit.

For me sunlight is the smart way to go – it’s a much faster, more visually appealing and natural than taking massive amounts of Vitamin D supplements.

But what would the ADD say…Forget them!

They’ve completely turned a blind eye to the fact that melanomas (lethal skin cancers) are not caused by excess exposure to the sun – but are actually a result of an unbalanced ratio of Omega – 6 to Omega – 3 fats in your body.

There’s just no escaping the fact that moderate exposure to the sun is good for you. And if you sit back and think about it for 1 minute it actually makes complete sense.

In years gone by we were born into the sun. And our bodies were designed accordingly – so common sense tells me that if I don’t give my body what it needs, than my health will suffer.

So enjoy the sun! Don’t be afraid to take your shirt off while you’re washing your car or mowing the lawn -- and instead of coating yourself with chemical based sunscreens when you’re at the pool or beach, try moderation instead.

You’ll be happier, healthier and you’ll look better too. This is the perfect time of year to add a little color to that pale skin or to balance out those tan lines – so grab your Speedo!

Stay Healthy!

Doc Darville
NatureCast

Important Note