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Winter is a time of less intense sunlight yet it is worth spending some time in that nonetheless healthy light. From the sun’s rays penetrating into our skin, we form vitamin D, an essential vitamin. Vitamin D is crucial for effective calcium absorption and sometimes weak bones can be blamed on poor vitamin D  levels. Rickets is a form of bone deformity and has a history in children who lacked sufficient vitamin D, as sunlight exposure was neglected. If there is not any chance of proper sunlight exposure then seek out eggs, butter and fish. These foods also have fat, which is essential to accompany vitamin D consumption. Vitamin D, being a fat-soluble substance, can only be well absorbed if ‘holding hands’ with fat. Our fat soluble vitamins can be thought of as toddlers trying to cross a busy intersection when they are in the digestive system. The fats in our diets are like adults that need to accompany them to reach the other side, of the digestive tract into our bodies. Fortified margarines and fish liver oil supplements available due to manufacturing processes can have their role in vitamin D contribution. There are different forms of vitamin D which our bodies can transform into the active form. The active form is the player in our health. In the summer season, one should only be in direct sunlight very early or late in the day. Even in winter, spring and autumn we should be vigilant on exposure as the risk of intense  rays is still pertinent in causing harm. The sun’s rays cause free radical damage, which is linked to premature ageing, diseases and cancer. These problems arise from excess sun exposure. The darker one’s skin is naturally the more melanin one has. Melanin is pigment in the skin cells that protect against the harsh intense UV rays. When we tan we promote melanin production but not enough to gain total protection. Regardless of how much melanin anyone has, the darkest skin tone will not guarantee freedom of skin cancer. Everyone should watch their skin and have suitable protection via lotions, clothing, hats and sunglasses. Sunglasses can be seen as a fashion accessory yet the blue eyed individual should be especially keen on sunglasses. Blue eyes (green eyes included, as they are actually blue but with shades of pigment) absorb more light than brown eyes. Have the foresight to be precautious. Age-related macula  degeneration is a form of blindness that can develop usually in old age and it has been linked to excess free radical damage to the eye. Increasing antioxidant intakes (via salads especially) and wearing sunglasses with adequate UV ray protection is relevant. The sun has a vitalising effect but it burns to say ‘enough’, that exposure is too intense.Anastacia Sampson D.N. Med |