I've been intrigued with the advancements in molecular biology in recent decades. Scientists have learned a great deal about the role of different vitamins.
There are numerous online articles saying that UV-B rays from the sun, along with body heat, convert 7-dehydrocholesterol into Vitamin D3. Our livers convert Vitamin D3 into Vitamin D2. These vitamins, along with vitamin K and minerals, regulate various functions including the absorption of calcium by our bones, blood clotting and our immune system.
Some reports on the history of Vitamin D suggest that flu season might be caused by lack of direct exposure to the sun.
There seems to be a strong correlation between vitamin D deficiency and the severity of COVID-19.
For example, vitamin D seems to regulate the release of cytokines and inflammation. People with low vitamin D seem more likely to suffer cytokine storms and severe inflammation.
During the lock down, I've been taking long walks at noon.
I am hoping that exposure to the sun could improve my immune system.
NOTE: I have used my male-privilege to take my shirt off in the park.
I see other people outside wearing masks. I think that is foolish because sun hitting their face would do more to protect them from COVID19 than the mask.
Unfortunately, the UV-B rays from the sun can cause skin cancer. This got me to thinking: What is the best way to get our daily sun exposure?
It seems to me that the best way to get vitamin D is to expose as much skin to the sun as possible for a short period of time. Five minutes of exposing a lot of skin to the sun would be better than exposing a little bit of skin to the sun for a long period.
Hmmmm, what is the maximum of skin that one can expose to the sun?
Well, I decided to do something risquee. I went outside without wearning any shoes. In the picture I am exposing my stubby little toes to the sun.
I hope that readers were not shocked to see stubby toes. However, this scandalous picture might lead into an interesting HIVE conversation with the topic: What skin have you exposed to the sun to increase your vitamin D levels?