“Sunshine secret” SHARPENS your brain power!

It may be September… and even though the official start of fall is around the corner, there’s still plenty of time to get out and enjoy some fun in the sun.

Whether it’s an afternoon round of golf with your friends, an early fall getaway to the beach, or a long walk around the neighborhood… getting your daily dose of sun comes with all kinds of health benefits.

Studies have found that sunshine can help your bones stay strong, lower your blood pressure, and help with your overall mental health.

Now there’s research around a NEW health benefit … one that can help keep your brain sharp and even help ward off deadly brain-related diseases.

Let’s not forget what sunshine is best known for…

The production of VITAMIN D – hence its famed moniker the “sunshine vitamin.”

Well, according to a research study out of the University of South Australia, getting more sun (and getting more natural vitamin D) could help folks stave off dementia.

There are many factors that can lead to dementia, but one factor in particular has been well-studied and well-documented…

It’s vitamin D deficiency.

It’s estimated that nearly 42% of Americans are NOT getting enough vitamin D.

But this new study found that cases of dementia could drop by nearly a FIFTH – if people who are vitamin D deficient started upping their levels.

The study also found that as much as 17% of dementia cases might be PREVENTABLE through higher vitamin D intake – which is incredible!

To be clear, vitamin D ISN’T a cure for dementia or cognitive decline.

But, it does highlight the fact that millions of Americans are not getting enough vitamin D – which plays a pivotal role in brain function.

Getting out in the sun (safely) is the best way for your body to naturally produce vitamin D. But if your levels are low, your best bet is to take a supplement.

Vitamin D supplements can be found almost anywhere vitamins and supplements are sold.

Talk to your doctor about the right dosage for you.

To health benefits of sunshine,
Sarah Reagan

Sources:

Study Finds. “Vitamin D-efense: Getting more sun could help protect against dementia and strokes.” 6/22/22. https://www.studyfinds.org/vitamin-d-more-sun-dementia/

Cobb, Cynthia. “What to know about the health benefits of sunlight.” 11/3/20. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/benefits-of-sunlight

Cleveland Clinic Mercy Hospital. “42% Percent of Americans Are Vitamin D Deficient. Are You Among Them?” 7/1/18. https://www.cantonmercy.org/healthchat/42-percent-of-americans-are-vitamin-d-deficient/