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The sun is both a gift and a curse. We rely on it to get vital nutrients, but it is also the cause of some of the most dangerous diseases. Most of us do not monitor our sun exposure regularly, and still others purposely increase their risk of sun damage by using tanning beds. To get the most out of your sun exposure you need to stay within the margin of a healthy and unhealthy amount of sun.

Here are some pros and cons to sun exposure as well as tips for preventing harmful sun damage.

Pros for sun exposure: The sun gives us a very important nutrient; vitamin D. Vitamin D is responsible for our calcium absorption, general bone health,
thyroid regulation, and immune system. Deficiencies in vitamin D can lead to bone diseases such as osteoporosis and osteomalacia, rickets, high blood pressure, tuberculosis, prostate, colon, and breast cancers, multiple sclerosis, mind disorders such as depression and schizophrenia, and autoimmune diseases. Although small amounts of vitamin D can be found in dairy products and fortified foods, the sun is the most reliable source, especially for vegetarians and vegans. The recommended daily allowance of vitamin D is 400 mg, and just ten minutes of sun exposure will give you plenty. Ten minutes is not enough time to do any damage to your skin, but it will eventually give you a nice tan!

Cons for sun exposure: Most of us are aware of the harmful effects of long term sun exposure. It is linked to skin cancer and melanoma, as well as premature aging.
Although tanning can make you look healthy while you're young, it can eventually lead to early wrinkles, sun spots, acne, and dry skin.

Ways to prevent sun damage: Clearly, the best precaution you can take against the sun is to wear a good sunscreen with a high SPF (over thirty) during long periods
of sun exposure. Good sunscreens are water and sweat proof and protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Wide brimmed hats, sunglasses, and clothing coverage are also recommended. If you do wish to get sunlight, try to avoid the hours between ten and three o'clock; this is when the sun's rays are the most harmful. Reflective surfaces such as water, snow, and even concrete can decrease the time it takes you to get a sun burn, so be aware. There are plenty of skin products on the market that treat wrinkles and spots due to sun damage, but it is best to prevent these before it is too late.

Learn more about this author, Sandra Dapper.
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