Vitamin D from Sun Exposure May Help Fight Cancer: Fact Check

Story:

Vitamin D from Sun Exposure can Help Prevent Cancer.

Other Versions

Sun exposure may help fight cancer.

Fact Check:

The story is about human exposure to Sunlight, that the Vitamin D from it may help prevent and fight Cancer. Although it does not convey complete information, yes, it is a fact.

Light from Sun, Vitamin D & Cancer

Over the years, we were taught that too much sunlight can expose us to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which is harmful for our skin and responsible for the induction of most nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) in humans (the most common type of human cancer). We do not have to avoid the sun completely; many studies have confirmed that appropriate sun exposure can actually help prevent some cancers including skin cancer. In fact, official advice has changed to suggest that a few minutes in the sun each day without sunscreen is healthy.

The Sun’s rays make us feel good, especially those tender ones early in the morning. It is true that too much of sun exposure can certainly be harmful, so to limit your UV exposure, you have to stay in the shade and also wear clothes that provide different levels of UV protection. The better side of sun exposure is mostly attributed to the Vitamin D production.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is nicknamed as “sunshine vitamin,” because the skin makes it naturally from ultraviolet rays when you are in the sun. It is important for good health and disease prevention, as vitamin D receptors have been found throughout the human body. Studies are showing that vitamin D might even help lower the risk for some cancers. Many people today are not getting enough vitamin D, and research shows that a very low level of vitamin D is a major risk factor for melanoma (a type of skin cancer).

How Much is Safe

How much vitamin D you make from sunlight depends on various factors, including your age, skin color, and the strength of sunlight in your area. The darker your skin, the longer exposure you will need to optimize your vitamin D production. So a few minutes in the sun each day without sunscreen is recommended. To know if you are overexposed, signs like burning, or when your skin turns the lightest shade of pink can be considered as a measure. To prevent any damage due to overexposure in very hot or mid-day sun, you can use sun cream. A healthy diet full of natural antioxidants also avoids sun damage to your skin. Notably, in countries where sunlight is not available during part of an year, it becomes necessary to check and maintain the vitamin D intake through food, or supplements if required.

Apart from this benefit, research also suggests that sunlight hitting your skin and eyes helps the reversal of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Moreover, when you are out in the sun, it will engage you in some kind of physical activity that is good for your health. In fact, in India and other countries, sacred Surya Namaskar is considered king of exercises and used to be taught as daily routine.