Healthwatch by Shyft

Go back

Is Sunlight Important for your Health?

Is Sunlight Important for your Health?
Contents
Contents

As the morning light tip-toes its way into our office space, we, at the editorial team of Shyft can’t help but wonder about this marvel that is — sunlight. Not only does it give us warmth and light, but it also provides us with essential nutrients that we need to survive. In this article, we’ll explore the reasons why sunlight is so important for humans, and what happens when we don’t get enough of it.

Importance of Sunlight for Physical & Mental Health

First and foremost, sunlight is important for our physical health. One of the key nutrients that we get from sunlight is vitamin D. This vitamin is essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth, as well as for preventing diseases such as osteoporosis. In fact, most of the vitamin D that we get comes from sunlight, rather than from our diet. This is because our bodies are able to convert the sun’s ultraviolet rays into vitamin D.

In addition to vitamin D, sunlight is also important for our mental health. Studies have shown that exposure to sunlight can help to improve our mood and reduce symptoms of depression. This is because sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a hormone that is often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone. When we have higher levels of serotonin, we feel happier and more relaxed.

Sunlight and the Circadian Rhythm

Another reason why sunlight is important for humans is that it helps to regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Our bodies have an internal clock called the circadian rhythm, which controls when we feel awake and when we feel sleepy. Sunlight plays a crucial role in regulating this clock, as exposure to sunlight during the day helps to keep us awake and alert, while exposure to darkness at night helps to prepare us for sleep.

Sunlight & the Immune System

Sunlight is also important for our immune system. Studies have shown that exposure to sunlight can help to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting off infections and diseases. This means that if we don’t get enough sunlight, our bodies may not be able to defend themselves as effectively against illness.

Importance of Sunlight for Skin Health

Finally, sunlight is important for our skin. While too much sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer, moderate amounts of sunlight can help to protect our skin from damage. Sunlight can help to improve the health of our skin by stimulating the production of collagen, a protein that is essential for keeping our skin firm and elastic.

So, what happens when we don’t get enough sunlight?

Unfortunately, the consequences can be quite serious. People who don’t get enough sunlight are more likely to suffer from depression, insomnia, and other sleep disorders. They may also be more susceptible to illness and may have weaker bones and muscles.

Takeaway

Sunlight is a crucial component of our overall health and well-being. From maintaining strong bones and a healthy immune system to improving our mood and regulating our sleep-wake cycle, sunlight plays an important role in keeping us healthy and happy. So, the next time you’re outside enjoying the sunshine, take a moment to appreciate just how important it is for your health and well-being.

Over 20,000 customers have reduced their symptoms and improved their health by consulting Shyft's Clinical Nutritionists. When are you starting?

READ MORE ON :

Article By:

Read more

Continue to read on a range of topics related to Exercise, Nutrition, Mental Health and Sleep Health.

Taste the Rainbow: The Delicious Benefits of Eating Colourful Fruits and Veggies

Eating a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables is not only visually appealing but also provides numerous health benefits. The colours of fruits and vegetables indicate the presence of certain nutrients, and consuming a diverse range of colours ensures that you get a well-rounded mix of nutrients. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables as a holistic way of healthy eating. Red Fruits and Vegetables: A Burst of Antioxidants Red fruits… Read more

Taste the Rainbow: The Delicious Benefits of Eating Colourful Fruits and Veggies

Taste the Rainbow: The Delicious Benefits of Eating Colourful Fruits and Veggies

Eating a variety of colourful fruits and vegetables is not only visually appealing but also provides numerous health benefits. The colours of fruits and vegetables indicate the presence of certain nutrients, and consuming a diverse range of colours ensures that you get a well-rounded mix of nutrients. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of eating a rainbow of fruits and vegetables as a holistic way of healthy eating. Red Fruits and Vegetables: A Burst of Antioxidants Red fruits…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

05 Apr 2023

Going Vegan! Is the popular diet really for you?

Instagram reels have made you believe that Vegan is the way to go? Take a deep, long pause and evaluate if a Vegan diet is a sustainable life choice. Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, particularly in diet, and is an associated philosophy that rejects the commodity status of animals. As a result, the diet plan followed in this life choice should also include abstaining from anything that comes from an animal and only… Read more

Going Vegan! Is the popular diet really for you?

Going Vegan! Is the popular diet really for you?

Instagram reels have made you believe that Vegan is the way to go? Take a deep, long pause and evaluate if a Vegan diet is a sustainable life choice. Veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, particularly in diet, and is an associated philosophy that rejects the commodity status of animals. As a result, the diet plan followed in this life choice should also include abstaining from anything that comes from an animal and only…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

26 Apr 2023

How to Stay Healthy with Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders are a group of conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism, which affects many aspects of our health, including weight, energy levels, and mood. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of health problems, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules. However, with proper management and care, people with thyroid disorders can lead… Read more

Editor’s pick

How to Stay Healthy with Thyroid Disorders

How to Stay Healthy with Thyroid Disorders

Thyroid disorders are a group of conditions that affect the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck. The thyroid gland plays a crucial role in regulating the body's metabolism, which affects many aspects of our health, including weight, energy levels, and mood. When the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it can lead to a variety of health problems, including hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroid nodules. However, with proper management and care, people with thyroid disorders can lead…

book

3 minutes

|

calendar

26 May 2023

Editor’s pick

Is the Keto Diet for you?

6 minutes

06 Aug 2023

Is the Keto Diet for you?

Who has not heard about the craze of keto? The Keto diet has almost become synonymous with weight loss. “ I lost so many kilos while eating my favourite food!” is the tagline of all keto promotions. But is it all that it is made out to be? Is the weight loss here to stay? What about the health damage? If you are confused about trying this diet, we are here to make your decision easier with a pros and… Read more

Most read

Is the Keto Diet for you?

Is the Keto Diet for you?

Who has not heard about the craze of keto? The Keto diet has almost become synonymous with weight loss. “ I lost so many kilos while eating my favourite food!” is the tagline of all keto promotions. But is it all that it is made out to be? Is the weight loss here to stay? What about the health damage? If you are confused about trying this diet, we are here to make your decision easier with a pros and…

book

6 minutes

|

calendar

06 Aug 2023

Most read