If tanning was simply bad, nobody would do it, except of course for those who happen to experience addictions and other unhealthy attractions toward it. Obviously, as a society, we consider tanning to be attractive. But in most other cultures, you will find that they put high emphasis on lighter skin. In other cultures, it indicates a certain nobility as opposed to the farm and worker position in life. As it turns out, said cultures tend to have significantly lower risk of skin cancer and other common issues. But what are the actual benefits of tanning?
1. Some have claimed it to release endorphins
Some say that tanning actually releases extra endorphins in the brain, acting as a natural pick me up. And it helps to naturally improve mood and overall feelings of wellbeing.
2. It can prevent diabetes
Vitamin D is found in the sun’s rays, and obviously, this leads to a better rate of absorption of calcium along with other benefits. But studies have also shown that the natives of Finland, an area with the least amount of sunshine on any given day, the rates of type 1 diabetes are significantly higher as opposed to other areas of the world.
3. It helps to reduce hypertension
I have my own speculations on this. They say that the farther you get from the equator, the higher the rates of hypertension. Obviously, the farther from the equator you get, the colder the temperatures and the less plant life you may find at any given time. Populations farther from the equator are therefore more likely to depend on more meat, more fats, and therefore more things that would clog arteries and cause higher rates of things like hypertension.
4. Some say that it will improve osteoporosis
Some have stated that it may reduce the chances of osteoporosis. This may be connected to the fact that vitamin D can help you to improve the natural absorption of calcium into the body. Conferences have made the point that those who get less sun are more likely to suffer brittle bones and higher rates of osteoporosis.
Most of these benefits are largely related to vitamin D. Can you get vitamin D in a supplement? Certainly. That goes without saying. But getting it from the sun actually leads to better absorption. You take a certain number of risks to be sure, specifically aging, higher risk of cancer, and other common issues. But regardless of how you get vitamin D, this essential nutrient is something that everybody should get in their diet.