Fun in the Sun

[Amelia Bentrup]

It's summer time and that means lots of fun in the sun.   However there is a lot of confusion out there about sunscreen, sun exposure and how to protect yourself from sunburn and cancer while still getting adequate vitamin D.

 You may be wondering if you should wear sunscreen, what brands, or have questions about skin cancer and vitamin D deficiency.

 

Let's first look at some important information.

 

 1). You NEED sun exposure WITHOUT sunscreen for your body to produce Vitamin D.  Sunscreen blocks Vitamin D production.  If you don't get adequate vitamin d, you may suffer from vitamin d deficiency symptoms.

 

2). Everyone knows that sun exposure causes skin cancer and that sunscreen protect us from the sun, so if you want to be safe you need to put on sunscreen every time you go out in the sun. Right?  Or is that right?  Actually, many sunscreens CAUSE skin cancer...the very disease people are trying to prevent by putting them on. See this article on sunscreen and cancer.  So perhaps, sunscreen may not be the best way to protect yourself.

 

3). Vitamin D helps prevent cancer.  And, remember you can't make vitamin d without being outside in the sun.

Vitamin D and Cancer.  And, sunscreen blocks vitamin d formation.

 

4) Your nutritional status plays a factor in sunburn. In fact, a recent study has show that eating tomatoes can prevent sunburn. Other foods that help protect ... include dark chocolate (yum!), green tea, green leafy vegetables, omega-3 fatty acids and food high in carotenoids and lycopene.

 

5). Your genetic make-up matters.  If your heritage is from the far north and you are very fair, you're going to be more vulnerable to the sun than someone with darker skin tones.  So, use common sense when it comes to sun exposure.  Your body will also need less sunlight to produce Vitamin D than someone with darker skin would need.

 

6).  If you do find yourself a bit too red after time in the sun, you can find a home remedy for sunburn for relief.   Aloe vera is especially helpful but even just plain ole' vinegar or witch hazel is soothing.

 

I hope you find this information and there articles helpful as your navigate summertime fun in the sun!