5 replies to this topic

[Maecenas]

Sun is the only carcinogen known for its health benefits. Here is the list of risks I know about lack of sun exposure: higher probability of cancers except skin cancer, depression, higher chances of stroke and heart attack.
What do you know about such risks? If vitamin D deficiency is the only main culprit is it possible to obtain vitamin D through external supplementation? Is vitamin D the only thing to be concerned about? And how do you think, is it possible to maintain a perfect health with a minimum sun exposure?

[nupi]

Definitely possible to maintain D3 levels without sun exposure (which should take care of that cancer claims, I guess). I am a little less certain about the psychological impact from lack of exposure to bright lights (I most definitely also sleep more in winter ) but there something like a Philips GoLite Blu might help

Edited by nupi, 17 February 2013 - 03:58 PM.

[berrycurious]

90% of aging is caused by the sun. I sure do hope D supplements work cause I take them often.

[Maecenas]

90% of aging is caused by the sun. I sure do hope D supplements work cause I take them often.

Yes, and also 90% of malignant skin cancers are caused by UV radiation. And that is 2 main reasons I avoid sun now. But it seems unnaturally to hide from sun and I am aware that there are some unknown benefits or subtle effects of moderate exposure on overall health. That's why I am trying to gather available data concerning vitamin d studies. And a particular reason why I am asking is because I've noticed rapid worsening of my bone and dental health after 2 years of almost total sun avoidance despite regular use of vitamin d supplements.

[niner]

And a particular reason why I am asking is because I've noticed rapid worsening of my bone and dental health after 2 years of almost total sun avoidance despite regular use of vitamin d supplements.

What are the symptoms of this worsening of your bone and dental health? Have you had a Bone Mineral Density test? Do you have a lot of oxalate or phosphoric acid (e.g. cola drinks) in your diet? The only way to really know if your vitamin D supplementation is working is to have a blood test in which 25-hydroxy-vitamin d3 is measured.

[Maecenas]

No I haven't had any tests. I have a healthy low sugar diet with adequate calcium intake, brush and floss my teeth three times a day but during this 2 year period I've got 2 cavities, and I used to have none all my life. I've read somewhere that if you have a very fair skin, 2 times a week of 10-15 minutes intensive UV exposure is enough for vitamin D balance, but I doubt if that would be sufficient. Nevertheless being fair skinned and having a lot of moles I avoid sun as much as I can.
It's interesting to know about optimal doses of vitamin D supplementation because there are different opinions.

Edited by Maecenas, 20 February 2013 - 10:09 AM.