Potential Perils of Sunlight Underexposure

We’ve all heard about the dangers of getting too much sun. A recent article in KidsHealth^® highlights some of the obvious detriments like sunburn and heat exhaustion. But this article digs deeper. Some of the longer term risks include increased probability of developing certain cancers, premature aging of skin and eye damage resulting in vision problems.

We hear a lot about these risks, and we should. They represent serious danger. Like many things however, there’s an opposite side to the coin. This article looks at that opposite side: What happens when somebody doesn’t get enough direct sunlight?

If you live far from the equator in climates that have true winters, then perhaps you’ve experienced some of the detriments of not getting adequate sun during the shorter days. Maybe you’ve experienced symptoms of depression, anxiety or maybe you’ve become accustomed to low energy levels.

It is difficult to get sun exposure in the winter if you live in colder climates. People stay inside more, or if they do venture out, their skin is often covered, which disallows direct exposure to the sun’s rays. Unfortunately, for those people living in these areas during the winter, they may be missing out on numerous health benefits.

Health Benefits of Sun Exposure (source: Healthline Magazine)

• Higher serotonin production which results in better mood and energy levels
• Cancer prevention specific to colon, Hodgkin’s lymphoma, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer and prostate cancer
• Helps correct detrimental skin conditions such as acne, jaundice, eczema, and psoriasis
• Vitamin D production for stronger bones
• And more

So, if you live in regions where sun exposure limitations are a reality, what can you do? One recommendation has been proposed by Travel Insurance Expert and Director of Sales and Marketing at the Travel Insurance Center^®, Dan Drennen. He recommends taking a vacation during the winter to a warm destination. Often times travel packages are less expensive during this time of the year. In addition, tropical locations aren’t as brutally hot as they are during the summer, making for a potentially more pleasant vacation experience. Plus, you can get sun exposure at a time when normally, your body gets less. This can improve mood, stave off winter blues and make memories to be cherished.  

Dan goes on to say that if you do decide to go on such a mid-winter excursion, do consider insuring your trip with travel insurance. After all, you don’t want to risk being financially responsible if something occurs that would prevent you from having your “day in the sun”. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of travel insurance, reach out to one of our Travel Insurance Experts by phone or website.