Enjoy the sunshine – in moderation…

With so many scare stories about being in the sunshine, it’s a wonder any of us venture outside at all!

Of course it’s essential to take sensible precautions to avoid getting sunburned, de-hydrated or even sunstroke, and here are some helpful tips:

• apply sun screen (minimum of Sun Protection Factor 15)
• avoid being out when the sun is at its hottest – 11am-3pm
• wear a hat
• carry water
• wear lightweight, loose clothing

But, a stroll on a sunny day can do our all-round health and well-being a power of good. As well as lifting the spirits, sunlight boosts vitamin D levels, a deficiency of which can cause rickets and can be a major factor in the development of type 1 diabetes in children. There is also evidence that some cancers are less common in sunnier climes due to the protective factor of vitamin D.

As with so much in life, the key is to be sensible, getting the right balance. Take the measures we’ve suggested, and  enjoy walking in the sunshine say 30 minutes up to 3 times a week.

Don’t forget to use sunscreen and wear a hat if you’re  out on a longer walk, even on an overcast day, as some of the sun’s radiation will still get through the clouds.

Here’s to a fabulous summer!

(Information on vitamin D adapted from a recent article in the evening Standard by Dr Christian Jessen)

Useful links

Check the NHS website for further advice on summer health including protection against the sun.

Posted: Wednesday, May 19th, 2010 at 11:24 am, filed under Walking Tips.
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