The sun and immune health

Hot fun in the summer time! And we’re getting a good dose here in Iowa. Of fun and sun that is. The corn and beans are shooting up. My prairie grass has shot up 7 feet in 2 months.

And when it comes to health, there’s always the long standing debate: is sun exposure good for immune health, and if so, doesn’t it bode badly for skin health?

One prominent researcher says sun exposure in children may suppress immune response  and therefore, weaken the efficacy of vaccines. At the same time, she also confirms the benefit of moderate daily sun exposure to the production of Vitamin D in the body, which is has many health benefits, including support of immune function.

I guess the key is balance. Getting some good, direct sun light regularly, but not overdoing it. And if you must be in the sun for longer periods of time, a sunscreen of SPF 50 or higher, generously applied, is a must.

As one researcher states, “Sunlight is good for you, as long as it’s not too much.”