Sunlight helps lengthen your life too

At some point in grade school, we learned that all life comes from the sun. Well that mentality doesn't change when we grow up either! In fact, they're saying the benefits of sunlight can outweigh the risks of getting skin cancer.

That's not an invitation to go sunblock-free on the beach when it warms up again. But there are definite advantages to getting out from under the shade rather than staying inside all day. Since the body cranks out vitamin D thanks to sunlight, it is important to get those short-length UV rays.

Of course, moderation is the magic word. If you're going outside, don't lie bareback on the pavement for the sake of health! The risk of skin cancer is always present, but you can't let that stop you from producing vitamin D. We're talking about a vital nutrient here -- one that also protects against other cancers, not to mention rickets, osteoporosis and diabetes. And thanks to its effect on improving immune systems, sunlight can help everyone live longer and healthier lives.