Ms. Pratiksha Kadam - nutritionist at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital (Navi Mumbai, India) - said that when sunlight shines on the body, it will promote the production of vitamin D, thereby increasing the ability to absorb calcium and improve bone density.
“The body functions better during the day, so when you eat in the sun, it helps your body produce optimal digestive enzymes. Studies have found that eating during the day helps control blood sugar levels, leading to better weight control and metabolic health,” says Pratiksha Kadam.
Here are the benefits and drawbacks of eating in the natural light of the sun, including:
Advantage
Improve circadian rhythm: Exposure to sunlight helps regulate the body's circadian rhythm, which in turn aids digestion, metabolism, and sleep.
A study published in the journal Nature Reviews Endocrinology (2019) found that eating in sync with natural light can improve nutrient absorption and reduce the risk of metabolic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes.
Balances hormones: Natural sunlight stimulates the production of serotonin, a hormone that elevates mood. It also regulates two important hormones: ghrelin (the hormone that stimulates appetite) and leptin (the hormone that signals satiety).
Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism (2014) shows that exposure to bright light increases serotonin, which helps reduce cravings and overeating.
Vitamin D and metabolism: Although sunlight does not directly provide vitamin D, exposure to light during meals can promote the body's production of vitamin D. Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption, maintaining the immune system, and supporting the balance of intestinal bacteria.
Disadvantages
Too high temperature: On hot days, eating under the sun can cause a stuffy, uncomfortable feeling. Food can also easily spoil or become unsanitary if left at high temperatures for a long time.
Impact on food quality: Food can quickly melt, spoil or change flavor when exposed to high temperatures and direct light for long periods of time.
Sunburn Risk: Without adequate skin protection, you can get sunburn, which can damage your skin and lead to long-term health problems.
Difficult to control insects: When eating outdoors, you are likely to encounter insects such as flies, mosquitoes, or bees, which are annoying and unsanitary.
Note
Dr. Pratiksha Kadam advises that you should choose the right time when the weather is cool, avoid direct sunlight that is too strong, especially at noon.
Make sure you have protective measures such as umbrellas, parasols or hats to protect your body from the effects of the sun. In addition, you need to drink enough water to avoid dehydration due to the heat.
