Everyone knows that sunlight warms, does good and provides important vitamin D in our bodies. But on the other hand, the beneficial sun is warned against even when we are still children. From doctors, parents, media and various sources we are told to always wear sunscreen and to protect ourselves from the sun. But what is behind it? Is sunlight more dangerous or better for our body and how can we find a healthy balance?
Studies clearly show that vitamin D is vital for us. Among other things, it ensures sufficient calcium and phosphorus metabolism and the mineralization of bone tissue. However, it can only do this if it enters the body through the sun, which shines on our skin. Studies show that 30 minutes of direct sunlight on the skin without sunscreen in the form of creams or textiles is necessary for this in order to provide the body with an optimal supply of vitamin D. Where in the world we live, or the time of year can also diminish the absorption of sufficient vitamin D. Through the National Health and Nutrition Surveys (NHANES), it was found that vitamin D levels in blood samples taken during the summer (May to October) were higher than during other months of the year. As a result, scientists, from this study and others, recommend urgent supplementation of vitamin D during the winter months.
However, the other side of the coin is also not sufficiently efficient and especially not healthy for our body! An increased intake of vitamin D and thus too much sunlight on the skin brings many health risks, here the science is in agreement. Especially the topic of skin cancer is discussed heavily and has been researched in many studies. Thus, scientific studies clearly show that sun exposure increases the risk of skin cancer.
Although the studies are quite clear on both sides, it is difficult to make a recommendation for a healthy balance. Studies have shown that women who actively expose themselves to sunlight have a longer life expectancy than women who do not; however, the risk of skin cancer is higher in the sunlight-exposed group! There does not seem to be an official compromise between the two, as each body absorbs direct sunlight differently. Thus, a controlled supplementation seems to be a good alternative.
Citation
- P.G. Lindqvist, E. Epstein, K. Nielsen, M. Landin-Olsson, C. Ingvar, H. Olsson (2016). Avoidance of sun exposure as a risk factor for major causes of death: a competing risk analysis of the Melanoma in Southern Sweden cohort. J. Intern. Med. (2016).
- M.F. Holick (2007). Vitamin D deficiency. _N. Engl. J. Med. 357 266–281._J.L. He, R.K. Scragg (2011). Vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, and blood pressure in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys. Am. J. Hypertens 24 911–917.