Assuming Positive Intentions
The Sun Edition
Spring is fast approaching! As we witness the first blooms of flowers like tulips and daffodils signaling the arrival of spring, we are reminded how this time of year brings a sense of renewal, warmth, and vitality. As nature awakens from its winter slumber, it inspires a fresh start and new beginnings.
We will also experience longer daylight hours as the sun rises earlier and sets later, providing more time to enjoy outdoor activities. Do you enjoy being outdoors? I love being outdoors when warmer weather arrives and encouraging my little ones to love it too! You will definitely find us out at the parks, canoeing, swimming, and attending fairs. Most importantly, I love being outdoors because of the Sun. It plays an important role in my life, especially as a vegan. It’s the only way that I can get a very critical nutrient, Vitamin D.
The Benefits of the Sun Vitamin:
FUN FACT: Did you know that how you dress can negatively impact your absorption of vitamin D? While you can still absorb some vitamin D through your skin while wearing clothes the amount absorbed may be reduced as clothing acts as a barrier, blocking some of the UVB rays from reaching the skin and reducing the amount of vitamin D produced.
It’s important to know this because Vitamin D plays a crucial role in various bodily functions and offers several health benefits.
1. Bone health: Vitamin D helps regulate calcium and phosphate levels in the body, which are essential for maintaining strong and healthy bones. Adequate vitamin D intake can help prevent bone disorders such as rickets in children and osteoporosis in adults.
2. Immune function: Vitamin D is involved in modulating the immune system and promoting immune cell function and plays a critical role in fighting off infections and reducing inflammation.
3. Muscle function: Vitamin D plays a role in muscle function and strength. It helps regulate muscle contractions and may reduce the risk of falls and fractures, particularly in older adults.
4. Mood regulation: Some research suggests that vitamin D may play a role in mood regulation and mental health. Adequate levels of vitamin D have been associated with a lower risk of depression and improved overall mood.
5. Heart health: Vitamin D may have protective effects on cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation, improving blood vessel function, and regulating blood pressure. Some studies suggest that low vitamin D levels may be associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
6. Cancer prevention: Emerging research suggests that vitamin D may have anti-cancer properties and may help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings.
7. Diabetes management: Vitamin D may play a role in insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, making it potentially beneficial for individuals with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
8. Pregnancy and infant health: Adequate vitamin D intake during pregnancy is important for fetal development and may reduce the risk of complications such as preterm birth and low birth weight. In infants, vitamin D supplementation is recommended to prevent conditions such as rickets.
Overall, maintaining adequate levels of vitamin D is important for overall health and well-being. However, it's essential to balance sun exposure with sun safety measures and, if necessary, to supplement with vitamin D through diet or supplements to ensure optimal levels.
ASSUMING POSITIVE INTENTIONS: When we witness a change in the behavior of folks such as being more care free or dressing differently perhaps they are just attempting to reap the benefits from the short amount of time that they have to enjoy the new seasons.
Resources:
“Vitamin D.” The Nutrition Source, 29 Feb. 2023, www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamin-d/.
