The NEW "sun damage rules"

Hi {NAME}, Normally, this is the time of year I start sending warnings about sun damage. As spring brings warmer temps and sunnier days, that usually means lots more sun exposure, and much faster aging. However, this year — with everyone spending most of their time indoors — that won’t be much of a concern! That said… less sun exposure does have its drawbacks… Mainly, Vitamin D deficiency. The sun is our body’s main source of Vitamin D. UVB rays interact with our skin to produce Vitamin D — but without enough sunlight, your body can’t keep its levels up. 42% of Americans were already Vitamin D deficient before the crisis. Now, I predict those numbers are going to get much worse. Vitamin D is necessary for bone health, proper immune function, and even cancer protection. Low levels are linked to bone loss, depression, obesity, higher risk of high blood pressure and certain cancers, not to mention poor immunity (something you DEFINITELY don’t want right now!). And the cherry on top? According to researchers, those with low Vitamin D may actually show signs of aging FASTER than those with adequate levels! So to stay in good health during this time, please try to eat plenty of foods rich in Vitamin D if you can. That means fatty fish, cheese, whole eggs, and fortified foods like certain dairy products, orange juice, and breakfast cereals. And don’t forget — you don’t have to be doing anything strenuous like hiking or mowing the lawn to get sunshine. A quick drive in the car, or relaxing by a window with the curtains open, can give you a little bit of extra exposure, to help your body make that extra Vitamin D you need. (Just be sure to keep your sunbaths quick so as not to damage your skin, and remember to wear a [high-quality SPF]( if you plan on being exposed for 15 minutes or more — even if you're only in your car or backyard.) Stay safe. We’ll talk again soon. Your Beverly Hills MD, Dr. John Layke P.S. Of course, if you can get out and get some fresh air & exercise while safely social distancing, you should… in which case, DEFINITELY don’t skip the [sunscreen](! :) P.P.S. While we’re here — I’ve been getting lots of emails asking how the Layke kids are doing with the quarantine. It’s DEFINITELY a challenge for everyone — lots of mood ups and downs, for sure! — but having all this extra family time has also been an incredible blessing. Jameson, Violet, and Smith, getting a little sunshine (and looking cool) in the backyard! Feel free to send in a picture of your “silver lining” — I’d love to see what’s keeping you going during this crazy time. //links.beverlyhills-md.com/a/141/click/8786950/742234759/_f6aefd14dbab967270a4db976d0f2967892d5235/edcb91ddae6734658ec8f235f36d29afbee13de0     This email was sent to {EMAIL} by jlayke@beverlyhills-md.com Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group 436 N. Bedford Dr. Suite 214 Beverly Hills, CA 90210  [Edit Profile]( | [Manage Subscriptions]( | [Report Spam]( Â