When I was a teenager I was obsessed with the sun in the most unhealthy way. I’m talking slathering up baby oil and baking in the sun all day, then jumping in a tanning bed before bed. The only thing I think of reflecting back on this is…where the heck were my parents? My only focus was on achieving the darkest tan I could possibly get. I not only was getting tan, I was absolutely ruining my skin.
Don’t get me wrong the sun is great for you. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, it manufactures vitamin D. The sun’s ultraviolet B (UVB) rays interact with a protein called 7-DHC in the skin, converting it into vitamin D3, the active form of vitamin D. Vitamin D is a nutrient your body needs for building and maintaining healthy bones. It also regulates many other cellular functions in your body. Its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective properties support immune health, muscle function and brain cell activity.
More amazing Vitamin D benefits:
As an adult I appreciate the sun for what it gives, light, heat and energy but I make sure to soak in it responsibly and not selfishly try to suck up all of its rays for myself, leaving none for anyone else.
If you feel you may have a vitamin D deficiency symptoms may include the following:
If you don’t enjoy being in the sun, don’t worry. You can also get your fill of vitamin D with this:
– [ ] Cod liver oil.
– [ ] Salmon.
– [ ] Swordfish.
– [ ] Tuna fish.
– [ ] Orange juice fortified with vitamin D.
– [ ] Dairy and plant milks fortified with vitamin D.
– [ ] Sardines.
– [ ] Beef liver.
Although if I’m being honest it will be a cold day in hell before I put a sardine in my mouth!
Now THAT’S food for thought!
Healthy Eats,
xo Kasi