"Let the Sunshine In!"

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Today, with all the hype about skin cancer, people have taken to avoiding the sun as much as possible. In addition, we happen to live in a country which is sadly obsessed with the “gori mem complex” where women are encouraged to slather on so called “fairness” creams which promise to change their complexions to a snow-white like hue, therefore ensuring them handsome husbands, successful careers, and fantastic luck for the remainder of their lives.

Well, here’s a news flash: according to recent studies limited (and sunscreen safe!) exposure to sunshine might help you live longer and for some people, the health benefits possibly outweigh the risks of skin cancer! The reason? Sunshine happens to be one of the best sources of Vitamin D, which protects the body from a number of diseases. How, you might ask? Sunlight stimulates the body to produce Vitamin D, which has been proven to protect the body from ailments like diabetes, osteoporosis, and even some forms of cancer. Research shows that modest amounts of sunshine produces the critical amount of vitamin needed to help the body’s immune system function properly.

Vitamin D can also be found in foods including cod liver oil and milk, or could be taken in supplement form. But the way I look at it, why waste your money buying expensive supplements when you can get your daily dose of D for free?? All it takes is spending a few minutes in the sunny outdoors. And whats that magic number? 20. Yup, 20 minutes is all the time it takes for your body to be able to get enough sunlight to manufacture the Vitamin D it needs, without which you risk a whole host of unfun (yes it’s a word) stuff from brittle bones to kidney stones. And in 20 minutes, even in the hottest sunshine (think Delhi in May), you are unlikely to risk burning or damaging your skin through harmful UV exposure because of the short time spent it the sun. The best part? You don’t have to bother changing into your shorts or bathing suit to get these rays! Exposure of just your face and/or arms is plenty!

And just in case I haven’t given you enough reasons to grab some shades and get outside, here’s the icing on the cake. Sunlight also enables the brain to boost its production of serotonin, the feel good hormone, which keeps you feeling good and thinking positive, something you just don’t get being stuck indoors all day long. So go out there and get some sun.....