Sunshine is an important source of Vitamin D.  Our body makes this vitamin from sunlight.  Yet we stay out of the sun and use sunscreens to protect ourselves from exposure to the sun.  Ironically, Vitamin D naturally protects our skin from pre-cancerous changes.  Therefore, instead of using sunscreen, it's best to take simple precautions to protect ourselves from the harsh rays of the sun while still getting adequate amounts of sun.

Vitamin D is needed for calcium absorption.  It also aids magnesium, zinc and iron in being absorbed by our bodies.  Many of us are deficient in Vitamin D.  The important thing is to get the right amount of Vitamin D from our food and daily sunshine. 

Sunshine and UV Rays in particular have been linked to a decrease in blood pressure.  You know how relaxed you get when you feel the sun.  That is a true feeling that actually affects blood pressure.  Studies indicate that the further one lives from the equator, the less rays a person gets, the higher their blood pressure.  Of course, this does not mean we should be soaking up rays and get red.  That is unhealthy.  A little common sense, and knowing your skin type, is the best way to get your healthy daily dose of sunshine.

The latest studies indicate an inadequate amount of sunshine during pregnancy raises the child's risks later in life for:

• schizophrenia
• crooked teeth
• myopia

There are also studies which report a connection between less sun exposure and short stature of the child, after genetics is taken into consideration.  Sunshine is important for our health, and if pregnant, actually does affect your unborn so get out and enjoy the sun and your child will be rewarded!

How much sun do we need?  That depends upon where you live, your skin type, and your eating habits.  People of darker skin tones need more sun to create the proper amount of Vitamin D.  Generally, about 10-20 minutes a day, three times per week, is sufficient for most of us.  Remember that the vitamin D is created from the cholesterol in our body and the oils created on our skin are critical to absorption, so one should avoid bathing or swimming for at least one hour after getting out in the sun.

Moderation is key.  Common sense helps too.  But go out and enjoy the sunshine!  A little each day -

For those of us who cannot get outdoors or do not have sun, full spectrum light bulbs are a great source of natural balanced light for your home and office.  Delicious Organics offers a variety of full spectrum light bulbs, many of which are more energy efficient so better for our environment as well.  Mercola also offers CFL full spectrum bulbs.  Like Sunshine, full spectrum light can help you feel better, read easier and reduce eye strain, strengthen your immune system, enhance concentration, and invigorate you during the day while improving your sleep at night.

• Vitamin D Reduces Risk of Type 1 Diabetes
• Sunlight Exposure Beneficial to MS, Dr. Mercola, 2000
• Sunlight Actually Prevents Cancer, Dr. Mercola, 2002
• Sunlight Exposure Decreases Risk of MS, Dr. Mercola
• Let the Sunshine In, Dr. Mercola
• Let the Sun Shine In (Especially When Pregnant), Dr. Mercola
• Your Chances of Developing Schizophrenia Depend on How Much Sunshine Your Mother Received, Dr. Mercola
• Not Enough Sunshine Can Make You Psychotic, Dr. Mercola
• Lack of Light Causes High Blood Pressure, Dr. Mercola
• So You Wanna Get A Safe Tan, So You Wanna
• Sunlight and Vitamin D, sunlightD.org
• The Miracle of Vitamin D, Krispin Sullivan
• Want to Lose Weight?  Get Enough Sunshine, June, 2004, Dr. Mercola
• Vitamin D Expert Fired for Recommending Sunshine, Miami Herald
• News about the Healing Power of Natural Sunlight, News Target Network