11 Reasons You Should Spend More Time in the Sun this Winter

• health + fitness
• December 11, 2016
• Ashley

midniteice-sarah.deviantart.com 

Even though dropping temperatures call for sweaters, hot chocolate, and cuddling by the fireplace, it’s important to get exposure to the sun when you can.  Sun rays are vital resources when it comes to overall health and happiness so we shouldn’t disregard the sun simply because it’s too cold out.

However, during the colder seasons it is especially difficult to get premium sun exposure that actually promotes the production of vitamin D because in many northern regions, UVB rays are much weaker, and in some areas, non existent. It’s important to stock up on UVB rays while the sun is still shining to reap the benefits of sun exposure.

Here are 10 Reasons why you should dedicate time each day to spend outside in the sun:

1. It can boost your mood from increasing your body’s production of serotonin.

2. Can lower the risk of heart disease which is believed to be related to vitamin D deficiency.

3. Can reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels also related to lower risk of heart disease.

4. Lower the risk of diabetes Vitamin D deficiency is believed to be a factor in the development of type II diabetes, while sufficient vitamin D exposure is thought to prevent the onset of type I diabetes.

5. Can help to counter Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) which is a depressive disorder caused by lack of sunlight.

6. Can be a sourse of pain relief as the sun provides heat to body muscles.

7. Reduce the risk of non skin related cancers Though, over exopsure to the sun is thought to contribute to the onset of skin cancer.

8. Can boost fertility by decreasing the body’s level of melatonin and delaying menopause.

9. Can boost energy levels also related to reduced levels of melatonin, a sleep inducing chemical.

10. Boost immunity by promoting white blood cell production.

11. Help with weight loss An increased production of serotonin also suppresses appetite, which helps regulate weight.

If you don’t already spend time each day out out in the sun, try taking daily walks or participate in outdoor Winter sports. You can also include more foods in your diet that are rich in vitamin D including fish, shrimp, oysters, tofu, and soy milk.

How do you find time for the sun everyday?