Researchers say many office workers get about half an hour's worth of sunlight in the cold season. While there is extensive research on the harmful effects of getting too much sunlight, there is not enough about getting too little of it.
Health experts are constantly urging the public to slather on a good amount of SPF, which can help protect against cancer and premature ageing. Sunscreen can also protect against free radical damage. However, you also need to ensure your body is getting enough vitamin D.
"A lack of sun exposure on a long-term basis can have detrimental effects our bodies, which is why ensuring you get enough vitamin D is crucial, even if this is in supplement form," Dr Clare Morrison, GP and medical advisor at Medexpress, told a news portal.
Adding, "A lack of sunlight can cause a multitude of problems such as weak bones, foot deformities, some cancers, depression, skin problems, weight gain and cognitive issues."
Morrison further explained: "In short, a lack of vitamin D not only affects you physically but also mentally, without enough sun exposure, your serotonin levels can dip and low levels of serotonin are associated with a higher risk of major depression and SAD."
D3 is an important form of vitamin our bodies need to maintain good health. You can obtain it by consuming salmon, fish oil, eggs, liver and butter. "In addition, the body makes its own D3 when the skin is exposed to direct sunlight," Morrison told a news portal. Adding, "In a pretty sun-starved nation, getting our vitamin D fix from the sun, especially in the long drawn out winter can be tough, so sourcing the most active and usable form of vitamin D from our food is imperative."
Here are some of the warning signs of vitamin D deficiency:
*Hair loss
* back pain
* Blue mood
* Get ill or infected frequently
* Exhaustion
* Muscle pain
Experts say those with darker skin tones should obtain more sunlight to obtain vitamin D. "The quickest way to up your intake is to take daily Vitamin D supplements. "You can also try and find a Vitamin D serum oil for a topical skin application, this will help to give your skin direct contact with the vitamin which should help alleviate some skin conditions you may suffer with as a result of the lack of sun," Morrison told a news portal
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