Sunscreen has long been regarded as a crucial tool for protecting our skin against harmful UV radiation and reducing the risk of skin cancer. But have you ever asked yourself, who came up with this idea. Who decided that we need to apply a unnatural layer of chemicals to our skin to protect us against the sun, a natural element that has existed for thousands of years with man. Well, there is finally evidence and a growing concern has emerged regarding the potential negative effects of sunscreen on our health. After decades of big corporations pushing sunscreen on us, the studies are now proving what some of us have been saying all along. Sunscreen is toxic, and causes vitamin D deficiency, impaired immune function, and increased vulnerability to disease, illness and cancers
In this blog post, we will delve into this debate, examining the balance between sun protection and maintaining optimal vitamin D levels for overall well-being.
Vitamin D Deficiency is Caused By Sunscreen:
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism in 2011 reported that about 41.6% of adults in the United States were vitamin D deficient at that time. That was over 10 years ago and we know that the health of North Americans has gotten much worse since then. After 2 decades of companies pushing sunscreen on our nations, we are seeing the devastating results. A sickened population with low immune systems and cancer rates through the roof. Another study published in 2017 in the same journal found that approximately 42% of the US population had insufficient vitamin D levels. Canada is not doing any better. In Canada, a survey conducted by Statistics Canada in 2012 found that approximately 32% of Canadians had inadequate vitamin D levels during the winter months, when sunlight exposure is limited. Again, this is over 10 years ago. So you can only imagine how much worse it has gotten in 10yrs. Over 86% of patients who died from covid had low vitamin D levels. This should be a warning to you, stop using sunscreen and get some sunshine on your skin.
Understanding Sunscreen and Vitamin D:
Sunscreen is designed to create a protective barrier on the skin, absorbing or reflecting harmful UV rays. Vitamin D, on the other hand, is a crucial nutrient synthesized by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. It plays a vital role in bone health, immune function, and overall well-being. The challenge lies in finding a balance between sun protection and ensuring adequate vitamin D levels.
The Sunscreen and Toxicity:
Evidence now shows what many have argued all along. That certain ingredients found in sunscreens, such as oxybenzone and octinoxate, can be absorbed into the body and potentially cause adverse health effects. Not to mention blocking the creation and absorption of one of the most important hormones in the body, vitamin D. It’s important to note that the evidence supporting the toxicity claims is are being attacked and considered controversial as the big corporations push back against profit loss. Regulatory bodies, such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), have approved these sunscreen ingredients as safe and effective when used as directed. But, do you really trust the FDA? If you do I recommend reading “critical thinking: if everyone jumps off a bridge, would you” as the Biopharmaceutical Industry Provides 75% Of The FDA’s Drug Review Budget. So remember that when you think they really care about your health.
The Role of Vitamin D:
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune system, bone density, and overall health. A deficiency in vitamin D has been linked to various health issues, including weakened immune function, increased susceptibility to infections, impaired bone health, insomnia and certain chronic diseases. Sun exposure is the primary source of vitamin D for most people, but it’s important to find a balance between safe sun exposure and protection against skin damage.
Understanding Sun Exposure and Vitamin D Production:
While they say sunscreen helps protect against harmful UV radiation, it can also reduce the production of vitamin D in the skin. The amount of sun exposure required for optimal vitamin D synthesis varies depending on factors such as skin type, geographical location, time of day, and season. Generally, 20 to 30 minutes of direct sun exposure to the face, arms, and legs every day is sufficient for most individuals living in the northern hemisphere to maintain adequate vitamin D levels.
Strategies for Sun Protection and Vitamin D Balance:
- Sunscreen Use: Don’t use it. After 20 to 30 minutes of intense sun light, put on a longer shirt to protect the areas of your skin at risk to sun burn. You don’t need to sit and tan for 2-3hrs.
- Safe Sun Exposure: Aim for short periods of unprotected sun exposure, especially during non-peak hours (early morning or late afternoon), to allow the skin to produce vitamin D. This can vary depending on your location, time of year, and skin type.
- Dietary Sources of Vitamin D: While sun exposure is the primary source of vitamin D, it can also be obtained from certain foods such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), fortified dairy products, eggs, and mushrooms. If necessary, consider incorporating these vitamin D-rich foods into your diet but optimal levels are obtained from direct sunlight.
- Regular Health Check-ups: Routinely get your vitamin D checked with bloodwork. This is the only way to monitor your vitamin D levels and overall health. Blood tests can help determine if supplementation is necessary to maintain optimal vitamin D levels.
Conclusion:
The debate surrounding sunscreen, vitamin D, and their impact on health requires careful consideration and a balanced approach. Sunscreen is not essential for protecting our skin against harmful UV radiation and reducing the risk of skin cancer, as much as the large corporations and big pharma would like you to believe. It actually does the opposite. Maintaining optimal vitamin D levels is very important for overall health, reducing metabolic disease and cancers. So get out in the sun, soak it up and feel the benefits of high vitamin D levels and better health.
