Don't Be Afraid of The Sun.

When looking at sunlight, usually what people will do is cover the surface of the skin. Or instead choose to remain silent in the room to avoid the heat sting. The reason is, for fear of skin becoming dark, burning, or getting skin cancer. However, behind its bad effects, sunlight turns out to have several benefits that are good for health. Sunlight is the Main Source of Vitamin D Ultraviolet (UV) radiation emitted by sunlight is not always dangerous. Sunlight can actually stimulate the production of vitamin D in the body. Unlike his friends, vitamins C and E, vitamin D is often forgotten. Though vitamin D is a vital nutrient for health, especially to help the absorption of calcium and maintain bone health. Not only that, according to one study, vitamin D deficiency can increase your risk of developing type 1 diabetes, bone and muscle pain, breast, prostate, ovarian, colon, and esophageal cancer. To get enough vitamin D, you don't need to spend a lot of money. Simply being exposed to regular sunlight can stimulate the skin to produce vitamin D which is sufficient for your needs.

Best Time Exposed to Sunlight

To get the benefits of vitamin D, there is the best time to be exposed to sunlight. In Indonesia, a good time to be exposed to sunlight is before 11 noon. For the best time is 9 a.m. Because, in Indonesia, the highest intensity of UVB rays occurs at 11 to 1 o'clock in the afternoon. Sunbathing time is at least 25 minutes. Within a week, we also only need to do it two to three times exposed to direct sunlight.

Powerful Sunlight Treating Several Diseases

Sunlight, especially UV radiation, has succeeded in treating a number of diseases. However, the use of UV radiation therapy must be under medical supervision in order to avoid its adverse effects. The following diseases can be treated by sunlight assistance:

• Rickets

This disease causes the child's bones to soften because they do not get enough calcium intake. One common factor in rickets is lack of vitamin D. Vitamin D is needed in the absorption of calcium from food and bringing it to the bones. With the help of exposure to UV radiation which stimulates the production of vitamin D in the skin, the risk of this disease can be reduced.

• Vitiligo

A condition that can cause loss of pigment in several parts. This occurs when the pigment-producing cells of the skin cannot function or die. Vitiligo sufferers can be treated with UV light therapy. This therapy is quite effective, but increases the risk of skin cancer.

• Psoriasis

This autoimmune disease can cause sores and thickening of the skin layer so that the skin becomes psoriasis sores itchy and sore. One of the treatments for psoriasis is the same as vitiligo, which is by UV therapy.

• Lupus vulgaris

Also commonly called skin tuberculosis. This disease produces large ulcers on the face and neck. Anti-tuberculosis drugs are needed to treat it. But with UVB lamps, this disease can be cured.

Tips for Fun with the Sun.

In the following ways, you will feel the benefits of sunlight.

• Do not let the skin burn

If the skin gets burned, it's not the benefits you get anymore, but a disaster. You must know when to stop. The duration of time of sun exposure ranges from 15 to 30 minutes, without the use of protective skin. Afterwards, if you still want to linger in the sun, use protection such as hats, glasses and brightly colored clothes.

• Use sunscreen

Use sunscreen with at least SPF 15 on the skin most frequently exposed to sunlight such as arms, legs, face and neck. Use waterproof sunscreen if you sweat easily or want to swim, or play to the beach.

• Adjust the level of sun exposure

Think of this sunlight like medicine. To get the benefits of sunlight, use effective doses. However, what needs to be noted is that not everyone needs the same dose. All depends on the age and skin type. For white people, 10-15 minutes of exposure to sunlight is enough, while for darker skin requires a little longer.

• Regularly exposed to sunlight

You are advised to start to set the schedule for exposure to the sun like 2-3 times a week with a duration of 15-30 minutes, without the use of skin protectors. The benefits of sunlight can be felt if the exposure is brief and on the skin, but done routinely. The sun's rays must directly hit your skin. You can not get benefits from sunbathing behind a glass window, because the UVB rays needed to produce vitamin D can be absorbed by the glass.

Not only sunlight, everything that is done in excess will definitely have a bad impact. But, now there is no need to fear the sun anymore. You can get the benefits if regulated wisely.