Sunlight exposure in moderate amounts is the best way to boost vitamin D levels in the body. When our skin is exposed to the sun, it produces vitamin D from cholesterol. Vitamin D has numerous benefits for the body including fighting disease, regulating mood, and strengthening muscles and bones.
Sun exposure has a number of other health effects unrelated to vitamin D production as well. Some examples of this are enhancing mood and energy through the release of endorphins, regulating body temperature, and enhancing skin barrier functions.
The general recommendation for sun exposure is 10-15 minutes per day on at least one-third of the skin’s surface. If you have darker skin or live further from the equator, however, you may need up to 30 minutes of exposure.
The best time to get sunlight is midday, as this is when the sun’s rays are at their peak and vitamin D is produced most efficiently.
Further Reading:
Learn about the Importance of Adequate Sunlight Exposure
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