
Natural Sun Protection
Ah, the golden rays of the sun. Nothing feels as warm and comforting during these summer months, but it’s not without its risks. Too much sun exposure, or using the wrong, toxic sun protection products, can weaken your immune system and damage your health. If you want to enjoy the sun in a healthy and safe way this summer, here’s what you need to know about natural sun protection!
When you’re exposed to sunlight, your brain increases its production of serotonin (a mood-enhancing hormone).
There’s a reason the sun “feels” so good on our skin. It’s because it can actually be very good for your physical and mental health! For example, researchers have found that the sun can:
The Health Benefits (and Risks) of the Sun

- Boost your mood. When you’re exposed to sunlight, your brain increases its production of serotonin (a mood-enhancing hormone).
- Strengthen your immune system & bones. In one study, just 30 minutes of sunlight gave people several days' worth of vitamin D, which is essential for everything from strong immune system to strong bones.
- Reduce cancer risks. Studies have found that cities with lower amounts of sunlight have higher rates of cancer, including colon cancer, prostate cancer and ovarian cancer.
- Increase your skin health and skin complexion. Sunlight exposure may help to treat and heal various common skin maladies, including eczema and acne.
Natural Sun Protection Strategies to Minimize Sun Risks
1. Practice Safe Sun Minimizing sun exposure when its most harmful is easier than trying to heal, recover or fix sun damage within your body later. Health experts advise avoiding sun exposure between 11am and 4pm when the sun’s UV strength is at its highest. If you must go outside during these times, you can reduce your risks by:- Staying in the shade when possible
- Covering up with a hat, long-sleeved shirt and pants. And don’t forget your eyes! Sunglasses can help guard against the vision loss attributed to too much sun exposure.
- Wearing a natural, organic sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
- Watermelon
- Pink grapefruit
- Papaya
- Guava
- Apricot