Older People Need More Sun, Expert Urges:
Note: So do young people. Sadly, we live in a world where sunshine has been demonized. Many slather themselves with (potentially toxic) sunscreens, wear hats, sunglasses, and long sleeves before spending more than a few moments in the sun. Yet the only way that our body can make active Vitamin D is through sun exposure. And vitamin D is vitally important, not just for bone health but for the health of our immune system and to help prevent certain cancers. So get some sun - but of course not too much. If you skin gets red, it's too much. For most people 15-20 minutes a day is sufficient. "Spending more time in the sunshine could help older people to reduce their risk of developing heart disease and diabetes.
Exposure to sunlight stimulates vitamin D in the skin and older people are more likely to have a vitamin D deficiency due to the natural aging process and changes in lifestyle.
Researchers at the University of Warwick have shown vitamin D deficiency is significantly associated with metabolic syndrome, a combination of medical and metabolic disorders that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes."
