What are Sunscreen Ingredients Really Doing to My Body? And Other FAQs
For years the idea of sunbathing has been frowned upon, suggesting that it ages the skin and causes melanoma. However, new research has shown that women who do not sunbathe in the summer months have a much higher mortality rate than those who enjoy soaking up some rays.
The study containing a study group of 30,000 women was conducted over a 20 year period and found mortality rates to be double in the group of women who wore too much sunscreen and avoided direct sunlight exposure. These results suggest minimizing sun exposure may actually be more costly.
While this seems contrary to popular belief, limiting sun exposure and wearing too much sunscreen prevents the body from producing Vitamin D3. Vitamin D is artificially added to food such as orange juice and milk, but the best source of Vitamin D is naturally from the sun's rays. Limiting sun exposure causes the body to be deficient in this vitamin which leads to a host of health problems.
The misguided assumption that sunlight is bad has resulted in an estimated 85% of Americans having a Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency can lead to health problems such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and several other conditions. [[adcode1]]
On the contrary, maintaining proper Vitamin D levels leads to healthier bones and teeth, a stronger immune system, stronger nervous system, regulated insulin levels, and an improved respiratory system. The point to take away is that adequate sun exposure is actually good for the body. Like everything else in life, take it in moderation.
Applying sunscreen seems like a great compromise to get some exposure without too much, but it has some drawbacks. Many sunscreens have chemical ingredients which can cause damage to the body and the environment. The carcinogens in sunscreen leech into oceans, rivers, and drinking water. They are also absorbed through the skin and found in the bloodstream. 97% of Americans have traces of carcinogens from sunscreen in their blood.
Instead, use all-natural sunscreens that do not include harmful chemical ingredients. Avoid ingredients like petrochemicals, silicones, synthetic preservatives, synthetic fragrance ingredients, and Vitamin A. Look for products with ingredients like antioxidants, natural plant oils (that contain SPF), and anti-inflammatories.
Ditch the chemicals and stop fearing the sun. Keep it healthy and natural and enjoy those hot summer days.
Source: Organic Authority, 2017
Comments