Let the Sun Shine: Benefits of Sunlight for Your Health

In recent years, sun exposure has been something to avoid, but controlled sun exposure offers significant health benefits.

Sunlight affects the central nervous system, primarily by boosting mood through the release of serotonin—a hormone that helps brain and nerve cells communicate, increasing our sense of satisfaction and happiness. Without sunlight, the chances of experiencing symptoms of depression and anxiety increase.

Exposure to sunlight increases the production of Vitamin D in the body. This vitamin is crucial for health, aiding in calcium absorption, strengthening bones, enhancing the immune system, maintaining thyroid balance, and more.

Being in the sun is the primary natural source of Vitamin D—UV rays interacting with your skin create this vitamin. When blood levels of Vitamin D are low, a supplement is recommended.

Sun exposure also promotes good blood flow and increased oxygen supply to cells, which also helps strengthen and improve vision.

Our biological clock, the "circadian rhythm," dictates our sleep-wake cycle influenced by light and darkness. It affects hormone production, body temperature, cell function, and melatonin production. Hence, exposure to sunlight during the day promotes better sleep at night—crucial for immune system strengthening and overall health.

For most of us, 15 minutes in the sun daily is sufficient, but this varies. As one ages, the body's ability to produce Vitamin D decreases, and skin color can affect Vitamin D production and absorption—darker skin produces less of it.

Controlled sun exposure, during low radiation times, is beneficial. In summer, it's recommended to be outdoors in the morning before 10 AM and after 4 PM. In winter, the health benefits from sun exposure start as early as 3 PM.

However, excessive exposure is harmful, potentially causing premature skin aging, dehydration, and more.