Sun Protection May Save Lives
By Tom Herrin
When I grew up in Texas, the heat and the sun were a fact of life. People simply had to get used to it. There was little info about dangers such as skin cancers then. People just got out in the sun and burned. After a while, they became conditioned enough to live in the sun with no regard for the effects. Older people had enough wisdom to wear hats, and maybe long sleeves, but I spent most of my time in the sun. As I have grown a little older, I have become a little wiser. The fact that I have had several skin cancers removed has served as some incentive as well.
The Right Clothes Are Important
For those who are particularly susceptible to UV problems, wearing dark colors offers more protection. Long sleeves are another thing that can help. Working out in the sun, particularly between mid-morning and mid-afternoon, may require that extra protection. Everyone in this part of Texas who was seen working in a garden or picking cotton some years ago would wear this kind of attire. The more commonly thought of light and loose clothing doesn’t offer as much UV protection. For those who are not actually working directly in the sun but concerned about temperature as well may prefer those light and loose clothes.
Sunshades Are a Necessity
It has been proven that sunshades can protect the eyes in many ways. This can include cataract development. Choosing a pair that offers 100 percent UV protection and serve as safety glasses is pretty easy since so many meet that qualification. It is especially important to choose good glasses for children rather than allowing them to select something that is cute but offers little or no protection.
Hats Are In
I was never really a hat wearer when I was younger. I have changed my thinking greatly since. My personal preference is a Panama hat when I can find a good one. They have wide brims and provide quite a bit of shading for my face. Caps are of little use because they only shade the eyes and forehead. It is usually recommended that people choose a hat with at least a two- or three-inch brim. I like them bigger than that if I can find them. You can still be about as stylish as you want and wear a hat. Don’t neglect the basics. Have a plan for the sun, and enjoy it.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Salt Lake City, Utah.