by August McLaughlin

So you’ve decided to take spectacular care of yourself this summer. You peruse the aisles at Walgreens for the best sunscreen; one that will allow for optimal coverage, that won’t wash away in sweat or water; one that doesn’t contain pore-clogging oils. Yes, you think to yourself, this year your health ranks higher than your desire for a bronzy tan. But are you actually doing yourself more harm than good?

Vitamin D is a superb nutrient that is attained through food and sun exposure. It helps your body retain calcium, strengthening your bones and reducing injury. It aids muscle growth and has been shown to prevent certain forms of cancer and heart disease. A mere 15 minutes of sun exposure per day may provide needed amounts of vitamin D. If this is the case, why are 40% of adults suffering from vitamin D deficiency? Sunscreen blocks UV rays, and much of the absorption of vitamin D. It could be that our efforts to prevent skin cancer are actually increasing risk for the cancers that vitamin D absorption fights against.

With melanoma (skin cancer) at an all time high, this may sound like frustrating information. Do we choose which cancer we are most afraid of and act accordingly? Do we say "screw it" and ex-nay the sunscreen all together? Fortunately, no.  Vitamin D, thankfully, can be supplied through diet. The RDA recommends a minimum of 200 - 400 UI of vitamin D per day, and more as we age. Fatty fish (such as salmon or tuna), egg yolks, cheeses, fortified cereals, beef liver and margarine all contain this important nutrient. 

To ensure healthy intake of vitamin D, incorporate the following:

1. Consume a variety of fatty fish at least two – three times per week.

2. Choose whole grain cereals and other products that are fortified with vitamin D.

3. Enjoy low-fat dairy, such as low-fat milk and cheeses.

4. Take a basic multi-vitamin daily, with food.

5. Enjoy the sun moderately, sunscreen and all.

These simple steps can improve your wellness and may even save your life. Kudos to you for caring for your body and the skin you’re in. Life is both too long and too short not to.

For additional information or to have a specific question address, please send email inquiries to August at info@lahealthworks.com.