Many people know that too much sun exposure, especially when one suffers burns, can be harmful, but did you know that sunlight also has many health benefits? Medical science has demonstrated that exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun can help prevent certain diseases and improve overall well-being.
Research has shown that sunlight can help protect against autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and even some types of cancer. Although scientists are still studying how exactly sunlight benefits the body, they believe it works through both vitamin D production and other biological processes.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a disease that affects the nervous system. Studies suggest that spending more time outdoors and getting more sun exposure may help prevent MS and slow its progression. People who had more sunlight exposure before developing MS tend to have a milder form of the disease after diagnosis.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that affects the pancreas. Recent research suggests that being exposed to high-intensity UV radiation during early childhood may lower the risk of developing this disease. This means that getting enough sunlight in childhood could help protect against type 1 diabetes later in life.
Emerging research also suggests that higher sun exposure during pregnancy may reduce the risk of pre-term birth and learning disabilities in children. This means that a healthy amount of sunlight may play a role in supporting a baby’s development before birth.
Exposure to sunlight can also make people feel happier. When UV radiation touches the skin, it triggers the release of beta-endorphins, which promote a sense of well-being. Sunlight also helps the brain produce serotonin, a chemical that improves mood. This is why people may feel happier and more energetic on sunny days and why lack of sunlight in winter can lead to seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
One of the best-known benefits of sunlight is vitamin D production. When UV-B rays hit the skin, the body produces vitamin D, which is essential for strong bones and a healthy immune system. Since most people get very little vitamin D from food, sunlight is the main source for many populations.
While too much sun exposure can be harmful, moderate amounts of sunlight provide important health benefits. Sun exposure can help prevent diseases, support mental health, and boost vitamin D levels. By spending a safe amount of time outdoors, people can enjoy the many benefits of sunlight while minimizing risks. The amount of sunlight one can tolerate depends on skin type, intensity of sunlight (geography, time of day), and skin covering. It is important that one receives sun exposure on a regular basis, with the amount based on skin tolerance.
