Issue 9 February 2011
Quantum
skin cancer, and perhaps others as well, than does regular, moderate sun exposure. Contrary to what you may have heard in the popular media, if you get regular, moderate sun exposure, you have less chance of developing malignant melanoma. New research shows that melanoma is more prevalent in low-intensity sun latitudes of Europe and North America than in the high-intensity sun latitudes nearer the equator, which again suggests that regular sun exposure may actually prevent melanoma. At the very least, moderate sun exposure will not increase the risk of melanoma in people not predisposed genetically.
Even more surprising, sunscreen may contribute to skin cancer rates. Originally, sunscreens prevented the penetration of UBV rays, but not UVA rays, which penetrate the skin more deeply. We now suspect that it is the UVA rays that are more highly correlated to skin cancer. Most of today’s sunscreens now screen out UVA rays. However excessive use of sunscreen can prevent your body from making the vitamin D it needs. The new medical wisdom is that if you avoid getting sunburned, the health benefits of sun exposure will far outweigh the possible dangers.
Since many of us living in northern climes can have a difficult time getting the kind of regular sun exposure we need to make adequate amounts of vitamin D naturally, especially in the winter months, we will probably need to take vitamin D supplements. As I said, how much you may need to supplement is unique to your geographic region, health situation and current vitamin D blood level. However, no matter where you live or what your current health status, one of the best courses of action you can take as part of your preventative health plan is to consult your doctor or primary healthcare professional about getting a 25-hydroxy-vitamin D3 blood test (you should fast for at least four hours before having this test). Knowledge is power, and by knowing your vitamin D blood level you can make easy changes if it is low, such as taking corrective action through sensible, moderate sun exposure and vitamin D supplementation.
Dr William Virtue, of North Carolina (USA), is a certified naturopathic physician and biocompatible dentist. He is an active member of the Pankey Alumni and Triple Plus Club, and is an accredited member of the International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology (IAOMT). He teaches biocompatible dentistry to the members of the IAOMT and is the mentor chairman and administrative vice president of the IAOMT. His website is
www.dentalvirtue.com.
HEALTH
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Quantum Health 61
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