While medical science and physical evidence have shown that too much sun can be bad for our health, just the right amount of sunlight can actually have numerous health advantages.
Eases Depression -- Serotonin
While people have always suggested that improved weather conditions (plenty of sunlight) has made them feel better from a mental and emotional standpoint, research has confirmed that sunlight does in fact serve as an antidepressant.
Courtesy of research conducted by Gavin Lambert of the Baker Research Institute located in Melbourne, Australia, sunlight has the ability to ease cases of mild depression and general gloominess. When the sun is out, the brain increases production of a mood enhancing chemical known as serotonin.
Prevents Cancer
According to a study involving over 1000 women, the University of California medical team of Dr. Frank Garland and Dr. Cedric Garland showed that sunlight can greatly reduce your chances of cancer courtesy of vitamin D.
Under the hypothesis that cancer, most notably breast and colon, are more prevalent in colder climate areas such as New York compared to New Mexico, the conclusion was made that sunlight, or lack thereof, can play a major role in increasing or reducing certain types of cancer.
Fights Alzheimer’s Disease
Another health benefit associated with sunlight is found in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Various aspects of the disease, such as mental decline, have also been slowed in respectable measure courtesy of sunlight exposure.
Clinical research has uncovered a physical well-being link between full sunlight exposure during the day coupled with darkness at night. Patients subjected to this routine have been able to sleep better at night and stay awake and more alert during the day.
Lowers Blood Pressure; Counters Heart Diseases
A 2014 study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology revealed that just 20 minutes of sunlight per day can lower a person’s diastolic blood pressure by almost five points.
Researchers concluded that UVA rays have the ability to release nitric oxide which increases blood flow within the body, thus lowering overall blood pressure as well as reducing the risk of heart disease.
Prevents Joint Pains And Arthritis
As we age, our joints become stiffer and even lock up at times. While these symptoms of aging can be debilitating from both a mental and physical standpoint, research suggests that sunlight could help the issue(s).
Courtesy of a study conducted at Harvard University, increased vitamin D from sun exposure can help to improve the activity of immune cells thus decreasing various types of joint pain and rheumatoid arthritis; think of the sun as oil or grease for your joints.
Rather than resting your body indoors, consider going outside for a short walk or simply relaxing on your patio or porch as a way to soak up some valuable sunlight.
Improves Your Brain
One of the most feared aspects of the aging process involves basic (non-disease) cognitive decline. A recent study suggests that people over the age of 45 are more likely to suffer some form of declined brain function if they had spent much of their younger years without adequate sunlight.
Medical science points to the body’s internal clock and notes that vitamin D helps your body and mind stay sharp and focused while a lack of vitamin D (proper sunlight) can cause your mind to suffer a gradual decline.
Gets Rid of Insomnia
Do you suffer from insomnia? Do you toss and turn at night because you’re simply unable to relax? Try spending more time in the sunlight during your traditional waking hours.
Research has shown that when sunlight hits your eyes the hormone known as melatonin is produced. Since melatonin is a hormone that helps you sleep, staying out in the sun — in a safe manner, will improve your sleeping pattern.
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