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Lose the Freshman 15: Celebrating with vitamin D

I didn’t wake up early enough to watch the royal wedding; 5 a.m. isn’t my thing. But I did wake up to catch some rays and get a dose of vitamin D by the pool. 

It was a rare not-so-humid day in Gainesville, and I planned on taking full advantage of it. 

First, I went on a long run completing a distance that I usually do not run this time of year because of the heat. But at 11 a.m. it was about 75 degrees, which is perfect running weather. 

It was a great start to the day that would only get better. I enjoyed my run so much that I didn’t want to get out of the sun. So I put on my bathing suit, packed sunscreen, a towel, and a magazine, and headed to my apartment’s pool. 

I have very fair skin, and without sunscreen I turn cherry-tomato red. When I am in the sun, it is imperative that I wear sunscreen to protect my skin. 

Here is what I have learned from a few painful sunburns: being pale is better than being burnt, and not only for looks but also for healthy skin. 

Here are some tips from SELF on choosing the right sunscreen:

  • Look for UVA/UVB or broad spectrum protection on the label
  • Read the label to make sure all UVA rays are covered
  • Use SPF 30 or higher for the best protection

My favorite sunscreen is Neutrogena’s Ultra Sheer Body Mist. It smells good, and it is a spray, so it is easy to apply.

Do you wear sunscreen regularly? 

I am a junior journalism student at the University of Florida. I am very passionate about health and fitness and hope to be a health writer or editor one day. Currently, I intern for Giggle, which is a family and parenting magazine that serves the Gainesville community. Outside of journalism I enjoy running, playing and coaching soccer, and socializing with my friends.