The Lighter Side of the Sun

Did you know that sunlight kills germs? This is the main reason why we need to air out blankets, quilts and other items that are not washed regularly. Proper amounts of sunshine also give the skin a healthy glow and help make it smooth and pliable. It is also a fact that moderately tanned skin is more resistant to infections and sun burns that lighter skin. Studies also show that sunlight elevates the mood of most people. Sunshine and active exercises is an important adjunct in treating acute and chronic depression. The body is able to manufacture vitamin D by the action of sunlight in our skin. This kind of vitamin enables the body to absorb calcium for use in building healthy bones. It prevents both childhood and adult rickets and aids in the prevention of osteoporosis. Sunlight also enhances the immune system and alleviates pain from swollen arthritic joints. It was also believed to relieve certain symptoms of pre-menstrual syndrome. Some people also reported that it may also help lower blood cholesterol levels.

The sun has many benefits to our health but let's not forget about the bad ones. We all know that it is a major risk factor for skin cancer. This is especially true for light skinned people because too much sunlight for them is very damaging. Too much sun can burn your skin. Every burn destroys healthy tissues on your body and it is also very painful. Excessive exposure to sunlight can cause skin cancer as well as premature aging of the skin.

There are some things a person should bear in mind for safe and healthy exposure to sunlight. Fair-skinned people may have to begin with only five minutes of exposure to the sun per day. Darker-skinned people can begin with 10 to 15 minutes per day. You can stay up to 30 minutes of sunshine is healthy for most people who have darker-skin. You must also bear in mind to never ever burn and should at all times wear protective clothing, eyewear and protective sunscreen when you are under the sun. You will only need a few minutes of sunshine on your face and hands everyday to get the required vitamin D. You can also open up your house to sunshine each morning to lift up your spirit.