The sunshine vitamin
image credit - Pinterest
I wrote a blog post earlier this year about seasonal effective disorder which touched on the impact of sunlight exposure on the brain. Now that the sun is shining brighter and for longer, as we head into the summer months it’s had me thinking about the benefits of what is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin.”
Vitamins are micronutrients which are essential for good health and optimal physical performance. There are so many different vitamins that it can be overwhelming to remember each specific one, their functions and which dietary sources provide which vitamins as the body cannot make them itself.
Many vitamins form the essential parts of enzyme systems involved in energy production and exercise performance. Others are involved in the functioning of the immune, hormonal and nervous systems. Vitamins are split into two groups depending on whether they are classed as either fat-soluble or water-soluble. Vitamin D is fat-soluble meaning it is absorbed, transported and utilised in the presence of fat.
So what are some of the essential functions of vitamin D?
Needed for calcium and phosphorus absorption
Helps form strong bones and teeth
Helps regulate bone formation
Protects tissues against damage
Promotes normal growth and development
Helps in normal red blood cell formation
Vitamin D is absorbed through the skin when exposed to sunlight. It’s important to remember to cover up or protect your skin if you're out in the sun for long periods as over-exposure can increase the risk of skin damage and skin cancer. Dietary sources include fish oils and oily fish, eggs, butter and vitamin D-fortified cereals, margarine and some yoghurts.
Whilst being beneficial for the body, exposure to sunlight cues special areas in the retina, which triggers the release of serotonin. Serotonin is associated with boosting mood, producing healthy sleeping patterns and helping a person feel calm and focused.
For me, the sun always feels like the best medicine. It instantly puts me in a good mood when I see the sun shining out the window in the morning. Just going for a short walk each day or spending a short amount of time outside is beneficial for the mind, body and soul.
Bring on the sunshine.