What does fun in the sun have to do with healthy eating? First of all, sunshine converts inactive vitamin D in our bodies to its active and beneficial form. Vitamin D is necessary for strong bones and normal calcium metabolism. Additionally, an Australian study recently reported that increased sun exposure during childhood and early adolescence is associated with a reduced risk of multiple sclerosis. This is supported by the fact that multiple sclerosis is more common at higher latitudes, which generally have lower levels of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

Second, having fun in the sun is time spent doing something other than lying around in front of the TV, playing video games, or surfing the Web. Outdoor play usually involves a healthful level of activity, which goes hand in hand with healthy eating.

All this said, make outdoor play safe. The sun’s UV rays are present year-round, but because our kids spend more time outdoors and wear less clothing during the warmer months, the risk of exposure is greater. Excessive and unprotected exposure to the sun is associated with premature aging, undesirable, changes in skin texture, and various types of skin cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, people receive up to 80% of their life’s total exposure to UV light by the age of eighteen.

Start early in promoting a healthy attitude about sun protection for your kids. Think about SPF (sun protection factor) even when it’s hazy or cloudy. Encourage your kids to play in the shade or to avoid playing outdoors between 10:30 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., when the sun’s rays are strongest. When your kids are outdoors, be sure their skin is protected. Choose a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher. Sunscreen is not recommended for children younger than six months old, so keep infants in the shade and covered up with comfortable clothing.

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