SUNSHINE

I am so happy to see the sun! Yes, the sun is shinning in Seattle!! I read an article that said a person needs aprox 15-20 min a day of sunlight, do you think we get that here? No way! Seattle is located at the most northern latitude of any major city in the USA outside of Alaska. What that means for me is that we have 8.5 hours of daylight in December, but on the upside we have 16 in June.
The best way to get your vitamin D is the natural sun. Often called the "sunshine vitamin," vitamin D is made in the body after exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun. It helps with calcium absorption, key for growing bones and preventing osteoporosis. Those of us in the NW don't get near enough. Since the 1930's Milk has been fortified with D, it's still not enough, not even close.
Light therapy is said to be the best treatment for people who suffer from SAD in the winter months. The FDA has not concluded that it works, but users say it does wonders. The light goes into the eye and from there your body is able to regulate Melatonin.
Enjoy the warmth of the winter sun every chance you get! I have sat on my back deck soaking up the rays each afternoon this week. YAY!!