TOP 5 BENEFITS OF SUNLIGHT

We already know that sunlight is essential for life. It promotes the growth of plants and crops and keeps us warm. Of course, we've also been taught that too much exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer, so we've started being careful with how much time we're spending on it.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF SUN EXPOSURE

Many people ask the question: how much is "enough"? The answer depends on various factors, but generally, experts say 5 minutes to 30 minutes a day is enough to get some benefits of sun exposure without risking damage. If you wear sunscreen, you can stay out longer. You'll want to consult with your health professional to determine what's best for you.

Let’s explore some of the major benefits of spending time in the sunlight. 

#1. IMPROVES SLEEP

Research has proven that spending an hour in the morning light will improve your sleep because sunlight tells your body when to increase or decrease melatonin . Therefore, the more exposure you can get to the sun, the more melatonin will be produced when it's time to go to sleep. 

#2. DECREASES STRESS

In addition to helping you sleep, melatonin helps to decrease your stress levels. Plus, since you’re typically doing something physical when you’re outside, the extra exercise can help you burn off stress.

#3. STRENGTHENS BONES

Vitamin D helps maintain calcium levels, which leads to strong bones. The best way to get Vitamin D is to spend time outside because our bodies produce it when we're in the sunlight. If you're fair-skinned, 15 minutes a day will be sufficient. 

#4. HELPS KEEP WEIGHT OFF

According to experts, spending approximately 30 minutes in the sunlight between 8 AM and noon helps with weight loss. Of course, there may be some other factors at play, but there does seem to be a correlation between morning sun exposure and weight loss. 

#5. STRENGTHENS IMMUNITY

Another thing that Vitamin D is necessary for is to strengthen your immune system. If your immune system is healthy, you can naturally fight off illness and infections, some forms of cancer, and even help you recover after surgery.