🌞 Betcha didn’t know that almost 42% of the US population is Vitamin D deficient
Vitamin D has an enormous function within the body. It stays active in many tissues and cells and gets absorbed through our skin via sunlight. We associate it with bone health, but scientists have seen beneficial correlations with improving mental health, sleeping patterns, immune health, and skin health to name a few. And now research suggests it can help reduce the chances of certain types of cancer. Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency can include bone pain, muscle twitching, digestive tract problems, and tiredness. (Beata Lewis MD)
🌞 Betcha didn’t know that sunlight activates serotonin in the brain through the eye
Sunlight has a direct link to serotonin levels through our eyes. Sunlight triggers the brain to release serotonin. Serotonin is a hormone that helps regulate various functions in the body and affects your overall well-being. It has an influence on mood, memory, digestion, sexual function, bone density, and blood clotting. It can also help you sleep better. Serotonin stimulates alertness and its opposite melatonin stimulates sleep. So, if we don’t get enough sunlight, and serotonin levels drop, so does our mood and we get perpetually tired and sleepy. (Healthline)
🌞 Betcha didn’t know that Florida took the Sunshine State slogan from New Mexico
Before 1970, New Mexico was known as the Sunshine state. No, climate change did not contribute to the swap. New Mexico failed to officially adopt the nickname. At the same time, tanning oil was becoming widely popular in the early 1970s and Florida was looking to increase its tourism. Florida, the Sunshine State was born. Ironically, according to National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the appointment of sunniest cities belongs to the states of Arizona, California, Nevada, and Texas before Florida. (NOAA)
🌞 Betcha didn’t know that Fort Myers is the sunniest city in Florida
An article by Meteorologist Chris Gilson of Spectrum News 13 out of Orlando puts Fort Myers in this top spot. The home of the Hibiscus House Bed and Breakfast boasts a 73% annual sunny day average. The Hibiscus House averages 271 mostly sunny days out of the year. So, no matter what time of year you visit, the odds of good weather will be in your favor. (Meteorologist Chris Gilson)
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Author
Lisa Brooks
Superpowers include picking the best weather days for vacation.