Vitamin D is essential for bone health and supports several systems, including the immune functions of the body.
It is estimated that 24% of people in the United States are vitamin D deficient.
Published on May 19, 2023 GrassrootsHealth.net
Research has shown a definite link between higher vitamin D levels and improved cognitive health and mental-emotional wellbeing.
The latest research on why getting sensible sunshine exposure is important for your mental and emotional wellbeing
Key Points
- In addition to producing vitamin D, exposure to sunlight results in the release of other chemicals that promote mood enhancement, relaxation, pain relief, and other mental-emotional benefits; these chemicals include beta-endorphins, nitric oxide, melatonin, serotonin, and dopamine
- When the skin is exposed to UVB, beta-endorphins (the endogenous opioids made in the body) and vitamin D are produced simultaneously, suggesting a “reward” for UV-induced vitamin D synthesis when vitamin D levels are low, during which time a greater amount of beta-endorphins are released upon exposure to UVB
- Participants in a study on cognitive health with the highest sun exposure had higher average mental state scores of cognitive function compared to participants with medium or low exposure; this study concluded that long-term high sun exposure throughout life could reduce the risk of cognitive impairment in the later years of life
Research has shown a definite link between higher vitamin D levels and improved cognitive health and mental-emotional wellbeing.
