Notwithstanding, scientists and physicians have voiced their concerns about the impact of the sun on human skin. The American Cancer Society notes that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer. Due to the eroding of the ozone, it is increasingly important to care for one’s skin, particularly when outdoors where Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun peaks.
Spending excessive amounts of time outside in the sun can also accelerate the aging process and weaken one’s vision. Again, UV radiation from the sun can damage eye tissue due to overexposure to the sun.
Healthy Steps to Take While Outdoors in the Sun
According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), sunscreens that block both UV and UVB sun rays and that also have SPF 15 are good sunscreens. Most health and super department stores like WalMart, Kmart and Target carry effective sunscreens in cream, spray and gel form.
Protect the eyes while outdoors by wearing sunglasses that block UV and UVB sun rays. Many retailers create stylish sunglasses that offer these protections. Check with the store where one is purchasing the glasses to find out the specific protection that the glasses offer.
More Impact of Excessive Exposure to the Sun on the Human Body
Another reason that it is important to exercise healthy habits while outdoors in the sun is because excessive exposure to high temperatures has been known to cause heat strokes and dehydration. If the body receives too much exposure to heat, its cooling system can begin to work improperly or cease to work. This can cause heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
CDC reports that heat stroke is the most crucial heat related illness. Ailments brought on from a heat stroke include muscle cramps, dizziness, headache, dry skin, hyperventilation, extreme fatigue, disorientation or unconsciousness.
Heed Weather Warnings Before Venturing Out in the Sun
Therefore, even if one is using proper sunscreen, it is important to limit the number of hours spent outdoors, especially between the hours of 10am and 4pm, on particularly hot days. As an added protection, the National Weather Service issues weather advisories and warnings. The advisories are distributed to television and radio stations.
Internet service providers also post weather advisories at their websites. The importance of these advisories may not fully be known as scientists and physicians continue to study global warming and the impact of high temperatures and sun rays on human skin.
Exercise Healthy Outdoor Habits
To create a guard between oneself and sun rays, wear a hat when outdoors for an hour or more. Carry a bottle of water when walking for exercise. If at all possible, and especially during the hotter summer months, remain indoors between one and two o’clock in the afternoon. These are typically the hottest times of the day. Avoid giving into the temptation to exercise outside during the hottest hours in order to sweat profusely and accelerate the weight loss process.
If the only time one can exercise outdoors is at midday, make a point of exercising in a well shaded area. Take frequent breaks and shorten the length of one’s workouts. Exercise with a partner or in a high trafficked area. This way, if weakness or illness begins to set in, help will be nearby. Seek shade or a cool indoors area if one begins to feel excessively fatigued. Call for assistance if one begins to see spots or dots. Keep in mind that even top notch athletes alter their workouts and training schedules during hot summer months.
Enjoy attending outdoor jazz festivals, barbecues, beach and neighborhood walks. But be smart. Drink lots of water while outdoors to remain hydrated. Wear a sunscreen that provides protection against UV and UVB sun rays. Remember to schedule outdoor exercise during cooler times of the day, earlier in the morning or later in the evening. Take a partner along and incorporate regular breaks into the amount of time spent outdoors.
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