SUPERMARKETGURU FOOD &
HEALTH WEEKLY NEWSFLASH!
Sun Bathing
Published on: August 9, 2003by Cheryl Roth and Mara Engel
After what seems like a prolonged arrival, the lazy days of summer have finally arrived (and unfortunately have been sweeping by us so quickly it’s like they are almost gone -- we can’t believe it either).
Typical summer past times include the joyous occasions of going to camp, chasing the ice cream man and for some, most importantly, lounging in the sun slathered in baby oil (okay, raise your hand if you channeled the sun with those reflectors that looked like giant restaurant menus that would beg the sun to share even more of his rays at an even faster pace).
Today, there seems to be quite a lot of information regarding sunlight and its effects. On one hand we are told that sunlight is essential in the production of Vitamin D, a vitamin that is vital to good health. Although vitamin D does naturally occur in foods like egg yolks, shrimp, tuna and is typically added to milk to fortify it – sunlight is needed to synthesis Vitamin D even in these sources. And, in ancient times, sunbathing was recommended as a restorative for good health, increased energy and enhancing the immune system. On the other hand, much evidence reveals that the sun produces harmful UVA and UVB rays causing everything from sunburn to premature aging to skin cancer.
So, with all this sensational news, is it all controversy, contradiction or confusing? (Sometimes it is a toss up)
The most popular suggestion in preventing us from harmful rays or becoming over exposed by the sun, while still being able to get outside and enjoy the sunshine is by liberally utilizing sunblock and sunscreen. This is in fact a pretty simple solution, yet even this suggestion includes a lot of what should be skilled decision making. After all, as just mentioned, there is sunblock (full protection, no tan) and sunscreen (lesser protection, tanning opportunities depending on strength), both very different products. Once we have made a decision on block or screen, we then need to decide what level of Sun Protection Factor or SPF, as we commonly know it, we want. Finally, we are faced with the task of choosing whether we want these products to be waterproof or water resistant, which will depend on our level and choice of outdoor activity.
While most experts agree that skin damage caused by over exposure to the sun occurs in alarming rates, a little tid bit we came across claimed skin cancer was not sun related but occurred due to being genetically susceptible or had an abundance of pre cancerous moles.
At the end of the day, it seems as though it is wiser to be safe than sorry. We have seen people getting fried outside and their skin/appearance suffering for it. This summer, get out, have some fun, and get your vitamin D, but protect yourself with appropriate sun products. We love Nature’s Gate and Kiss My Face sun products. They work amazing and are made with only the purest, potent ingredients eliminating the harmful chemicals.