How much sunshine do we really need?
Why do we need sunshine?
Moderate sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D, which is essential for bone health and muscle function. Some studies show that high vitamin D levels are linked to lower cancer incidence and mortality, as well as a reduced risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Sunshine also lowers blood pressure. When UVA rays hit our skin, they trigger the release of nitric oxide, which causes our blood vessels to dilate. This reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
A landmark study of 29,518 Swedish women over 20 years found that sunshine avoiders had double the mortality rate (from all causes) compared with the highest sun exposure group. Conversely, sunbed use correlated with an increased overall mortality and cancer mortality rate. Another Swedish study conducted in 2011 found that women who used a sunbed once a month or more for at least a decade had a 90% increase in all-cause mortality.
