Infrared sauna use has many known benefits, but have you ever wondered if it can help with a vitamin D deficiency? Your body has a great need for this nutrient, and not getting enough of it can have a seriously ill effect on your health. Keep reading to get the truth about how - and how not to - make sure you're never in short supply.
To start, here's a short rundown of how vitamin D benefits your body:
- it's necessary for strong bones & teeth
- your body cannot absorb calcium without it
- it boosts your immunity against cancerous activity
- according to studies, an adequate intake helps prevent cancer of the breast and prostate (as well as several types) diabetes, multiple sclerosis, even depression
And that's not everything - as you'll see, vitamin D is a seriously important nutrient. A deficiency can take a severe toll on your health, particularly in the very young (rickets) and the elderly (osteoporosis). If it is more mild, symptoms may include sluggishness, fatigue, and sallow skin and hair. So it's clear that an adequate supply of vitamin D is vital to your well-being.
So, can you get vitamin D from an infrared sauna? In short: most of your vitamin D intake comes from sunshine, which your skin produces when directly exposed to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays. Sunlight also contains infrared rays in addition to UV rays and visible light - infrared heat accounts for the warmth you feel while standing in the sun, and has no harmful effects. Infrared heat is the ONLY type used in an infrared sauna. Essentially, it is through UV - and not infrared - light that your body makes vitamin D, so while you will experience sweat detoxification, healing warmth, increased circulation and a host of other health benefits from using an infrared sauna, it isn't a source of vitamin D.
What are good sources of vitamin D? Ultraviolet light supplies 90% of your intake, so experts recommend spending about 10-15 minutes twice a week in the sunshine. But don't forget the sunscreen - UV rays have an adverse effect after too much time, and put you at risk for skin cancer and sun damage. Sunblock will protect you, but the SPF will not allow your body to absorb vitamin D - so apply it only once you've gotten enough direct exposure. Don't forget that the other 10% of your D intake comes from diet, so so stock up on supplements or shop for nutrient rich sources like mushrooms, fish, and fortified milk.
So, in the end, infrared sauna use is not a solution for vitamin D deficiency - there's simply no substitute for sunshine. To ensure the best intake, spend enough time outdoors and fill your menu with nutrient-rich foods. And if you are seeking a boost to your overall well-being, check out infrared sauna therapy as a great accompaniment for a healthy lifestyle!
About the Author:
If you're thinking about purchasing an infrared sauna, you need comprehensive, honest information. Check out our guide at http://www.sauna-site.com.
No comments:
Post a Comment