SUNBATHING

FOR BABY*

*IMPROVE THE
IMMUNE SYSTEM

Kajian Literasi Pentingnya Mandi

Matahari
by: AI NUR ZANNAH, M.KEB
 SUNLIGHT/ UV
When you think of the sun, your first thought
might be about the damage it can do. And too
much can cause several kinds of serious health
issues. But small amounts, especially early in the
day before it’s at its brightest, can be good for
you in some ways.
UVA 90-99% reach the earth UVA is often found at 07:00 a.m
UVB <10% reach the earth UVB is often found at 10.00-11.00 a.m
UVC retained ozone layer to 14.00-15.00 p.m. (WIB).
Some Benefits of Mild Morning Sunlight/UV
• More Vitamin D
• Better Serotonin Levels
• Enhanced Insulin Levels
• Manages Jaundice
• Higher Energy Levels
• Increase trombosit
• Strengthens the
nervous system
• improve the body's
immune system
How the human body reacts to UV light
– The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage the cells of the skin in ways that promote
wrinkles, blemishes, and other signs of aging . But sun-exposed skin
releases large amounts of nitric oxide into the bloodstream. The vessels
naturally produce a lot of nitric oxide when you’re healthy, and especially
when you’re young
– The relationship between sunlight and nitric oxide, as well as the effects of
both on human health. Nitrogen Oxide acts as a cytotoxic material to
target cells, pathogenic microorganisms, and also to normal body cells. NO
is expected to play an important role in handling various diseases related
to the relaxation of the smooth muscles of the body found in the walls of
blood vessels, walls of the digestive tract, lungs, and ovaries.
– Richard Weller, MD, is a dermatologist and sunlight researcher at the
University of Edinburgh in the U.K. Weller says he’s looked at Covid-19
data in the United States, and that there seems to be a correlation
between states that get a lot of sun and lower rates of death. The
Swedish group showed that, in lab models, nitric oxide prevents the SARS
virus from reproducing. Covid-19 gets into the body by binding to the
same receptor as the SARS virus.
– the sunshine vitamin/ Vitamin D. Previous studies have shown that
vitamin D protected against acute respiratory tract infection overall, and
older adults
– There are far more questions than answers when it comes to the
relationships between sunlight and Covid-19. But the evidence to date
hints that getting some sun may help protect people from the virus.
 SUNBATHING
Sunbathing is a popular leisure activity in which a person
sits or lies in direct sunshine. People often sunbathe in
comfortable places where there is ample sunlight. Some
common places for sunbathing include beaches, open air
swimming pools, parks, gardens, and sidewalk cafes.
Sunbathing is not a single activity, we can get sunlight with
other activities such as gardening, lifting clothesline, and
others in direct contact with sunlight
 When is the best time?

The study showed that the ideal time for a sunbath

for the baby is between 10 am and 3 pm! Ours is a
tropical country, so sunlight is aplenty that is
generally warm, consider the more popularly
accepted timings of 7 am to 10 am to expose your
little one to sunlight.
How Much Is Enough?

This answer is different for everyone. It

depends on your skin tone, age, health
history, diet, and where you live. In
general, scientists think 5 to 15 minutes --
up to 30 if you’re dark-skinned -- is about
right to get the most out of it without
causing any health problems. You can stay
out longer and get the same effect if you
use sunscreen.
Use Minimum Clothing

– The larger the surface area of the body exposed, the

better it is for your baby.
– infants younger than 6 months must always wear
clothing and hats to protect the skin from redness,
burning, and irritation due to UV
– Shield your little one’s eyes if possible to avoid any
chances of damage. Close their eyes with a cloth or face
their head in the opposite direction from the sun.
 Choose the Right Location

It is not necessary that your baby’s

sunbathing is carried out in a completely
open space. Open a window that can stream
sunlight in, or place the baby in the room
with natural sunlight. If it is windy, it is best
to keep the baby indoors to avoid dust or
other foreign bodies from affecting his eyes.
Your baby can bask in the sunlight through a
clear glass window just as well.
Watch Body Temperature

Any abnormal increase in the baby’s body

temperature due to prolonged exposure to sunlight
should be a cause for concern. The baby’s body and
brain function can be affected by high
temperatures, so the duration and temperature
have to be monitored carefully
 Need Attention
– Premature Babies
In case your baby is premature, do not expose him to sunlight during the initial few weeks.
The baby may not be able to adjust to the warm temperature, and this could prove unsafe for
him. Preterm babies need a stable body temperature, and thus should be kept away from
direct sunlight in the initial period. Babies within a healthy weight range can be placed near a
clear window.
– Sensitive Skin
If your baby has sensitive skin, check with your doctor if it is ok to expose him to direct
sunlight. Otherwise, you may damage the baby’s skin as it could dry the skin, leading to
rashes, peeling or general irritation.
Use Time Wisely

While your baby is enjoying his time in the soft sunlight, you
can use this opportunity to connect with the baby. You can
massage the baby lightly with baby oil to give him additional
protection against skin problems. Caressing the baby creates a
feeling of security and warmth, and promotes good health.
Make sure you speak to the baby the entire time and build a
foundation for future communication between you and him.
This well-utilised time has many physical and emotional
benefits for both, the baby and the mother.