When you think about improving your heart health, you may picture intense exercise routines or strict diets.

However, a recent study suggests that something as simple as getting a little bit of sun exposure could have a positive impact on your cardiovascular health.

What the Study Found

The study, which was conducted over several years and involved thousands of participants, found that people who got moderate sun exposure on a regular basis were less likely to develop heart disease than those who got significantly less sun exposure.

However, it’s worth noting that the study also found that people who got excessive sun exposure had a higher risk of heart disease.

So, what does “moderate sun exposure” mean? In this study, it was defined as getting somewhere between 10 and 30 minutes of sun exposure on your arms and legs a few times per week.

That’s not a lot of time in the sun, but it’s enough to get some vitamin D, which is an important nutrient for heart health.

The Importance of Vitamin D for Heart Health

Vitamin D plays a crucial role in your heart health. It helps regulate blood pressure, supports your immune system, and helps prevent the buildup of plaque in your arteries.

When you don’t get enough vitamin D, you’re at a higher risk of developing heart disease.

Some foods, such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products, contain vitamin D. However, your body can also produce vitamin D naturally when your skin is exposed to sunlight.

That’s why getting a little bit of sun exposure can be a good way to boost your vitamin D levels and improve your heart health.

Other Heart-Healthy Benefits of Sun Exposure

In addition to improving your vitamin D levels, there are a few other ways that getting some sun exposure can benefit your heart health:.

Increase in Nitric Oxide Production:

When sunlight touches your skin, it triggers the production of nitric oxide, which helps dilate your blood vessels and lower your blood pressure. This can improve your overall heart health and reduce your risk of heart disease.

Reduction in Inflammation:

Sun exposure has been shown to help reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the arteries. Inflammation can contribute to the development of heart disease, so reducing it can be a good way to improve your heart health.

Lowered Stress:

Spending time in the sun can also be a good way to lower your stress levels. High levels of stress can contribute to heart disease, so finding ways to reduce stress can be an important part of maintaining heart health.

Tips for Getting Safe Sun Exposure

While getting a little bit of sun exposure can be good for your heart health, it’s important to do so safely. Here are a few tips for getting safe sun exposure:.

Limit Your Time in the Sun:

As mentioned, getting excessive sun exposure can actually increase your risk of heart disease. Limit your exposure to 10 to 30 minutes a few times per week and avoid the sun during peak hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.).

Use Sunscreen:

When you are going to be in the sun for more than a few minutes, use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply it every two hours, or more often if you are sweating or swimming.

Cover Your Skin:

Wearing a hat and lightweight, loose-fitting clothing can help protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.

The Bottom Line

While it’s important to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, a little bit of sun exposure can be good for your heart health.

Getting somewhere between 10 and 30 minutes of moderate sun exposure on your arms and legs a few times per week can help boost your vitamin D levels, increase nitric oxide production, reduce inflammation, and lower stress levels. Just make sure to take steps to protect your skin from overexposure.