Is Avoiding the Sun Making You Sick? Why Brooklyn Families are getting out in the Sun

For decades, we’ve been taught to fear the sun—cover up, stay inside, and slather on sunscreen at all costs. But the truth is, when approached with mindfulness and moderation, sun exposure is not only safe, it’s essential. Our bodies are biologically wired to thrive with sunlight, relying on it for crucial functions like vitamin D synthesis, hormone regulation, immune support, and mood balance. Rather than avoiding the sun altogether, it’s time to reconnect with its life-giving power and understand how responsible sun exposure can be a foundational pillar of vibrant health.

1. Natural Vitamin D Production

• The #1 benefit of sun exposure.

• UVB rays stimulate your skin to produce vitamin D, a hormone vital for:

  • Immune system regulation

  • Bone health and calcium absorption

  • Hormone balance

  • Lower risk of chronic illnesses, including certain cancers, autoimmune diseases, and depression

Fun fact: Just 10–30 minutes of midday sun a few times per week can be enough, depending on skin tone and location.

2. Boosts Mood and Mental Health

• Sunlight increases serotonin, the "feel-good" neurotransmitter, improving mood, focus, and calm.

• Sun exposure also regulates melatonin, supporting better sleep cycles and reducing seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
  

 3. Supports Immune Function

• Adequate vitamin D levels are linked to a stronger immune response.

• Sunlight can help modulate inflammation and enhance the body's defense against infections.
  

4. Strengthens Bones and Muscles

• Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, crucial for:

  • Bone density

  • Preventing rickets, osteomalacia, and osteoporosis

  • Muscle strength and coordination
    

 5. Cardiovascular Health

• Sun exposure may help lower blood pressure by triggering nitric oxide release from the skin, which helps dilate blood vessels.

• This can improve heart health and circulation.
  

6. Circadian Rhythm Regulation

• Early morning sunlight exposure helps set your internal clock, promoting better sleep and wakefulness patterns.

• Helps regulate hormone production, including cortisol and melatonin.
  

7. May Reduce Risk of Some Cancers

• Paradoxically, studies show that adequate sun exposure is linked to lower risk of certain internal cancers (e.g., colon, breast, and prostate cancers) due to the protective role of vitamin D.

• This is in contrast to overexposure, which increases skin cancer risk.
  

 8. Skin Conditions May Improve

• Controlled sun exposure has been used therapeutically to treat:

  • Psoriasis

  • Eczema

  • Acne

  • Vitiligo

  • Jaundice in newborns (via phototherapy)
    

9. Increases Energy and Alertness

• Sunlight stimulates the production of dopamine and other brain chemicals that enhance energy, motivation, and vitality.
  

10. Enhances Detoxification

• Sunlight may support liver function and lymphatic drainage.

• When paired with sweating, it helps the body eliminate toxins more efficiently.

Sun exposure is not the enemy. It’s a vital, healing force that humans evolved with—and it plays an irreplaceable role in our health. The goal isn't to fear the sun but to build a healthy relationship with it.

Tips for Safe, Smart Sun Time:

• Expose bare skin to early or late-day sun for 15–30 minutes without sunscreen.

• Avoid peak UV hours (10am–2pm) for extended exposure.

• Protect your face and chest with hats or mineral sunscreen if you're out for long periods.

• Hydrate and nourish your body with antioxidant-rich foods to prevent oxidative stress.