. When exposed to sunlight, the skin produces vitamin D3, an important factor in bone strength, our sense of wellbeing and the treatment and prevention of many health problems. The major source of vitamin D for most adults and children is sunlight, as very few foods naturally contain the vitamin.”
This increased production of vitamin D3 is, Dr Lapa explains, the main reason why spending time in the sunshine can be so good for our health – but it’s not the only reason.Is the SPF in your foundation or moisturiser enough? We asked dermatologists to explain “Sunshine has been linked with reduced heart health risks – UVB is believed to lower blood pressure and thus reduce risk of heart disease,” she says. “This correlation is not entirely understood but is thought to be linked with an increased production of vitamin D3 nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, substance P and calcitonin, all of which are implicated in the softening and widening of blood vessels to help reduce blood pressure.
According to Dr Lapa, exposure to sunshine can also improve bone strength, reduce our risks of autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, reduce our risk of bowel cancer, and improve the function of ourBenefits of sunlight exposure: “Sunshine has been linked with reduced heart health risks – UVB is believed to lower blood pressure and thus reduce risk of heart disease.