I love the sun and almost everyone who works in medicine today will tell you that the sun is bad for you. It can age your skin, harm your skin, etc. However, the one positive that comes from sun exposure is Vitamin D.

Vitamin D is a vitamin that our body makes after being exposed to UV rays from the suns. It actually functions as a hormone and it can help increase the absorption of calcium and phosphorous. In doing so, vitamin D helps promote strong bones in our body.

Researchers also seem to think that vitamin D is an important factor in helping our immune system. It is also probable that vitamin D regulates cell and growth and can help prevent cancer. In addition, for those at risk of developing autoimmune disease, vitamin D is a great shield against the disease.

For most people, simply being in the sun will allow them to get the necessary requirement of vitamin D. However, depending on where they reside, it may be more difficult to get access to sunlight. Also, certain sunscreens block UV rays, preventing vitamin D intake. Therefore, it may be a good idea to get a supplement to ensure you are getting enough of this essential vitamin.