SUNLIGHT

:ITS EFFECT ON THE HUMAN ENVIRONMENT

By
DR. George F. Felfoldi, DD, PhD.

© 2023, George F. Felfoldi

 SUNLIGHT
:ITS EFFECT ON THE HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
 © 2023, George Felfoldi

Please feel free to distribute this e-Book,

As long as all the information is intact,
And is unchanged.
ALL OTHER COPYRIGHTS
BELONG TO THEIR RESPECTABLE
OWNERS.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Title Page
Copyright Information
Table Of Content
Dedication
Special Thanks
About The Author
Other Books By The Author
All About Sunlight

– Sunlight

– Ultraviolet Radiation
Measurment
The Composition And Power

– The Spectrum
Intensity In The Solar System
 – Different Bodies Of The Solar System

– On Venus

– On Mars

– On Saturn

– On Pluto
The Variation In Solar Irradiance

– Seasonal And Orbital Variations

– Solar Intensity Variations

Solar Irradiance

– The Solar Constant

– (TSI) And (SSI)

Surface Illumination And Spectrum

– Spectral Composition (At Earth's Surface)

All Life On Earth

– All Life On Earth

– Autothrophs

– Hetertrophs
 – Prehistory

– Neolothic Revolution
Cultural Aspects

– In Art

– Many people

– In The World

– Sunbathing
Effects On Human Health

– Long Term Sunlight Exposure

– Short Term Over Exposure

– UV Rays

– Epidemiological Data

– On The Negative Side

Health Benefits Of Sunlight

– Improves Your Sleep

– Reduces Stress

– Maintain Strong Bones

 – Helps To Keep Weight Off

– Strengthens Your Immune System

– Fights Of Depression

– Can Give You A Longer Life

– Sunlight Produces Serotonin

– Sunlight Wakes Us Up

– Sunlight Reduces Inflammation

– Improves Certain Skin Conditions

– Benefits Of Sunshine

– 10 Health Benefits Of Sunshine

– !! Health Benefits Of Sunshine

Sunlight For Your Health

– Sunlight

– Being In The Sun

– Lower Risk Of Metabolic Syndrome

– Heal Inflammation
 – Extended Life Expectancy

– What Happens If Not Enough Sunshine?

What To Know About The Benefits

– Alternatives To Sunlight

– Light Therapy
The Roles Of Vitamin D

– Vitamin D

– Healthy Bones

– Immune System Functions

– Deficiency

– The Symptoms

– Vitamin D In Infants

– Vitamin D In Pregnancy

– Sources Of Vitamin D
Dosage

– Dosage Amount
The Risks Of Vitamin D
Some Safety Tips

– Sun Safety Tips

Sunlight And Plants

– Process Of Photosynthesis Chart

– For Outdoor Plants

– For Indoor Plants

– Red Lightwave

– Blue Lightwave

– Green Lightwave
Indirect Sunlight Vs. Direct Sunlight

– Indirect Sunlight

– Direct Sunlight

– Partial Sunlight

– The Changes

– What Direction Gets The Most Sun?

 – What Is Full Sun?

– What Is Partial Sun?

– What Is Full Shade?

– What Is Partial Shade?

Photo Gallery
I would like to dedicate this e-Book
To my late mom and dad and
And also to all my readers
And friends.

THIS BOOK IS TO YOU ALL.

I would like to thank all the people,
Companies, Organizations,
Family and friends that made
This e-Book possible.

The Toronto Public Library

Health Canada
Toronto News Media
Toronto Star Newspaper
Dr. Paul Kitkat Fung, M.D.
 Toronto Western Hospital
University of Maryland
B. A. Hall, DBS
Cathy Wong, ND (Alternative Med. Expert)
Medical News Today
Healthline
The Healthy
Reader's Diguest
National Library Of Medicine
Healthy Living
Wikipedia Organization
Dr. Harvey Kline, MD
University Of Toronto
Toronto East General Hospital
Justin Michael
 ABOUT THE AUTHOR

George F. Felfoldi (aka) Gyorgy Ferenc Felfoldi

Dr. George Felfoldi is an Independent

Baptist Minister, An Author, Song writer
And Musician who is a native to
Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
George holds eight doctors degrees in
Various fields and has written several books,
On different subjects such as:
Occult, Health, Religion, Herbals,
Ships, and also Poetry and Lyrics.
George is also married and
Has four grown children.
 OTHER BOOKS BY
THE AUTHOR

2006

Katoomba - Columbia
The Powers of Garlic
Speaking to God Through Prayers
Ginger the Herb and Root Guide
The Complete Book On Angels
Chamomile The Healing Herb
The Healing Powers of Aloe Vera
The Healing Powers of Cranberry
The Healing Powers Of Seaweed And Algae
The Spiritual Key To Healing
The Healing Powers of Pomegranate

2007

The Healing Powers Of Blueberries

AMD – Age-Related Macular Degeneration
A Modern Look At Solar Power
The Healing Powers of Oregano
The Healing Powers of Coconuts
The Book of Spells :White Magic Vs. Black Magic
The Healing Powers of Cherries
Experimenting With the G-Spot
Sex Magic
The Images of God
The Healing Powers of Thistles
The Felfoldi’s :Medical Herbal Encyclopedia
The Complete Book on Herbal Magick
The Herbs And the Animals of the Bible
The Road To Better Health
The Gnomes In Mythology
The Magic of Having Great Sex
The Healing Powers of Strawberries
The Backyard Terror :Squirrels
Changing The Way We Look At Wolves
Cooking With Eggs Cookbook
The Healing Powers Of Watermelons

2008

The Healing Powers of Mangos

The Complete Book On Angels (Second Edition)
The State of Man (In Relationship To The Bible)
The Healing Powers of Tomatoes
The Schooner, Bluenose II
The Healing Powers of Mushrooms
A Modern Look At Parapsychology

Angel Light Bible Studies (A complete 22 lesson course)

Peach Popourri (A book on Peaches)
Hypnosis For Self Betterment And Healing
The Down To Earth Cookbook
The Science of Faith and Other God’s Sciences
World Wide Ghosts & Hauntings
The Modern Look At Poetry

2009

The Science of Mind Transformation

A New Look at Scheurmann’s Disease
Loch Ness Mystery
In Search of Mysterious Primates
The Healing Powers of Pineapples
The Healing Powers of Limes
The Scottish-Hungarian Cookbook
Cooking With Friends Cookbook
Spirit Orbs Photography
The Secret of Healthy Living
The Healing Powers of Mr. Garlic
The Complete Book On Herbal Magick (2 nd. Edition)
Spellcasting :White & Black Magic
The Healing Powers of Kiwi Fruit
A World Of Food Cookbook
A Psychic Connection To 2012
Paranormal Phenomenon :Levitation
Aliens Are Among Us
2010

The Devil And His Demons :Activities, Facts & Evidence

2012

Bed Bugs In The Woodwork

The Cockroach Invasion
The Basics of the Chinese Zodiac
Focusing the Mind, The Inner Universe
The Healing Properties of Honey

2014

The Toe Nail Fungus Book

The Healing Powers of Peppermint
The Healing Powers of Dandelion
The Healing Powers of Cloves

2015

The New Age Cookbook

From My Table
The Book Of Ginger
From My Table Cookbook
Cooking Is For Everyone
Tranquility Of Mind, Modern Lyrics & Poetry

2017

Kimberley's Famous Recipes

2018
Don't Stop Cooking
Hamsters Simplified
My Scottish Fold Long Haired Cat
Good Foods Made Easy
The Healing Powers Of Black Pepper
The Healing Powers Of Coffee
The Healing Powers Of Turmeric
The Healing Powers Of Water
Bedbugs Simplified

2019

Farmer's Wife Olde And New Tyme Recipes

2021

Everyday Cookbook
Cherries, A Superfood
Healing Properties Of Bananas
Healing Properties Of Corn
Healing Properties Of Garlic
Healing Properties Of Paprika
Healing Properties Of Turnip
Pears, A Superfood
Plums, A Superfood
Healing Properties Of Cranberries, 53p
Healing Properties Of Ginger
Cooking Through A Pandemic

2022

Cleaning And Kitchen Tips

From Hungarian And Scottish Kitchens
Blue Mountain Cookbook
Yes You Can Cook
Health Benefits Of Ginger

2023

Creative Home Cooking Vol. 1

Nessie Of Loch Ness
The Power Of Lemons
The Power Of Apples
Healing Properties Of Thistles
Health Benefits Of Dandelion
Healing Properties Of Pumpkins
Everything Pumpkin Cookbook
Everything Dandelion Cookbook
Health Benefits Of Potatoes
Everything Potatoes Cookbook
Angels Are Among Us
Healing Benefits Of Sesame Seeds
Healing Benefits Of Cinnamon
Healing Benefits Of Honey
Health Benefits Of Leaf Of Life
It's All About The Broccoli
Health Benefits Of Zucchini
Health Benefits Of Grapes
Health Benefits Of Cabbage
Health Benefits Of Carrots
SUNLIGHT :Its Effect On The Human Environment
ALL ABOUT SUNLIGHT
SUNLIGHT:

Sunlight is a portion of the electromagnetic radiation that is

given off by the Sun, in particular:

– infrared,

– visible,

– and ultraviolet light.

On Earth, sunlight is scattered and is filtered through Earth's

atmosphere, and is obvious as daylight when the Sun is above
the horizon. When direct solar radiation is not blocked by
clouds, it is experienced as sunlight, which is a combination of
bright light and radiant heat, (Atmospheric). When these rays
are blocked by the clouds or are reflected off other objects,
sunlight is diffused.

Scientists and researchers estimate a global average of

between 164 watts to 340 watts per square meter over a 24
hour day; this figure is estimated by NASA to be about a
quarter of Earth's average total solar irradiance.

ULTRAVIOLET RADIATION:

The ultraviolet radiation that is in the sunlight has both

positive and negative health effects, as it is both requisite for
vitamin D3 synthesis and a nutagen.

SUNLIGHT takes about 8.3 minutes to reach Earth from the

surface of the Sun. A photon starting at the center of the Sun
and changing directions every time it encounters a charged
particle would take between 10,000 to 170,000 years to get to
the surface.

Sunlight is a key factor in photosynthesis, the process that is

used by plants and other autotrophic organisms to convert
light energy, normally from the Sun, into chemical energy that
can be used to synthesize carbohydrates and fuel the
organisms' activities.
Daylight is the natural light of interior spaces by admitting
sunlight.

Solar irradiance is the solar energy that is available from the

sunlight.

Here in this picture sun shines is shining on

different side of the United State of
New Jersey. The sunshine is on the
Jersey shore at Spring Lake.
MEASURMENT
Scientists and researchers can measure the intensity of
sunlight using a what is called a “sunlight recorder”,
“pyranometer”, or “pyrheliometer”. To calculate the amount
of sunlight that is reaching the ground, both the eccentricity of
Earth's elliptic orbit and the attenuation by Earth's
atmosphere have to be taken into account.

The extraterrestrial solar illuminance (Eext), corrected by

elliptic orbit by using the day number of the year (dn) is given
to a good approximation, where dn=1 of January 1; dn=32 on
February 1; dn=59 on March 1, (except on leap years, where
dn=60), etc.

In this formula dn-3 is used, because in modern times Earth's

perihelion, the closest approach to the sun and, therefore, the
maximum Eext occur around January 3 each year. The value of
0.033412 is determined knowing that the ratio between the
perihelion (0.98328989 AD) squared and the aphelion
(1.01671033 AU) squared should be approximately 0.935338.

The solar illuminance constant (Esc), is equal to 128x10 3 rd lux.

The direct normal illuminance (Edn), corrected for the
attenuating effect of the atmosphere is given by :

Edn = Eext e-cm,

where the c is the atmospheric extinction and m is the relative

optical airmass. The atmospheric extinction brings the number
of lux down to around 100,000 lux.

The total amount of energy that is received at ground level

from the Sun at the zenith depends on the distance of the Sun
and thus on the time of year. It is about 3.3% higher than the
everage in January and 3.3% lower in July.

If the extraterrestial solar radiation is 1,367 watts per square

meter, (the value when the Earth – Sun distance is 1
astronomical unit), then the direct sunlight at Earth's surface
when the Sun is at the zenith is about 1,050 W/m2, but the
total amount, (direct and indirect from the atmosphere)
hitting the ground is around 1,120 W/m2. In terms of energy
sunlight at Earth's surface is around 52 to 55 percent infrared
(above 700 nm), 42 to 43 percent visible (400 to 700 nm), and
3 to 5 percent ultraviolet (below 400 nm). At the top of the
atmosphere, the sunlight is about 30% more intense, having
about 8% ultraviolet (UV), with most of the extra UV
consisting of biologically damaging short wave ultraviolet.

Direct sunlight has a luminous efficacy of about 93 lumens per

watt of radiant flux. This is higher than the efficacy (of source)
of artificial lighting other than LEDs, which means using
sunlight for illumination heats up the room less than
fluorescent or incandescent lighting. Multiplying the figure of
1,050 watts per square meter by 93 lumens per watt indicates
that bright sunlight provides an illuminance of appraximately
98,000 lux (lumens per square meter) on a perpendicular
surface at sea level. The illumination of a horizontal surface
will be considerably less than this if the Sun is not very high in
the sky.

The average over a day, the highest amount of sunlight on a

horizontal surface occurs in January at the South Pole.
Dividing the irradiance of 1,050 W/m2 by the size of the Sun's
disk in steradians gives an average radiance of 15.4 MW per
square meter per steradian.

(However, the radiance at the center of the sun's disk is

somewhat higher than the average over the whole disk due to
limb darkening.) Multiplying the by pye gives an upper limit to
the irradiance which can be focused on the surface using
mirrors: 48.5 MW/m2.
THE COMPOSITION
AND POWER
THE SPECTRUM:

The spectrum of the Sun's solar radiation can be compared to

that of a black body with a temperature of about 5,800 K.
The Sun emits EM radiation across most of the
electromagnetic spectrum. Although the radiation created in
the solar core consists mostly of x rays, internal absorption
and thermalization convert these super high energy photons
to lower energy photons before they reach the Sun's surface
and they are emmited out into space.

As a result, the photosphere of the Sun does not emit much X

radiation (solar X-rays) although it does not emit such, “hard
radiation” as X-rays and even gamma rays during solar flares.
The quiet (non-flaring) Sun, including its corona, emits a broad
range of wavelengths:

– X-rays,

– Ultraviolet,

– Visible light,

– Infrared,

– and Radio Waves.

Different depths in the photosphere have different
temperatures, and this partially explains the deviations from a
black body spectrum.

There is also a flux of gamma rays from the quiescent sup,

obeying a power law that is between 0.5 and 2.6 teV. Some
gamma rays are caused by cosmic rays interacting with the
solar atmosphere, but this does not explain these finding.

The only direct signature of the nuclear processes in the core

of the Sun is via the very weakly interacting neutrinos.

Although the solar corona is a source of extreme ultraviolet

and X-ray radiation, these rays make up only a very small
amount of the power output of the Sun (see spectrum
diagram on next page). The spectrum of nearly all solar
electromagnetic radiation striking the Earth's atmosphere
spans a range of 100nm to about 1mm (1,000,000 nm). This
band of significant radiation power can be divided into five
regions in increasing order of wavelengths.
Solar irradiance spectrum above atmosphere (yellow) and the
surface (red). Extreme UV and X-ray are produced (at left of
the wavelength range) but comprise very small amounts of
the Sun's total output power, (= area under the curve).
. ULTRAVIOLET C or (UVC) range, - which spans a range of 100
to 280 nm. The term ultraviolet refers to the fact that the
radiation is at a higher frequency than violet light, ( and,
hence, also invisible to the human eye). Due to the absorption
by the atmosphere very little of it reaches the Earth's surface.
This spectrum of radiation has germicidal properties, as used
in germicidal lamps.

. ULTRAVIOLET B or (UVB) range – spans 280 to 315 nm. It is

also greatly absorbed by the Earth's atmosphere, and along
with UVC causes the photochemical reaction leading to
production of the ozone layer. It directly damages DNA and
causes sunburn. In addition to this short term effect it
enhences skin damage and specifically promotes the
development of skin cancer, but is also required for vitamin D
synthesis in the skin of mammals.

. ULTRAVIOLET A or (UVA) – spans 315 to 400 nm. This band

was once held to be less damaging to DNA, and hence is used
in cosmetic artificial sun tanning, (tanning booths and tanning
beds), and PUVA therapy for psoriasis. However, UVA is now
known to cause significant damage to DNA via direct routes
 (forming of free radicals and reative oxygen species), and it
can cause cancer.

. VISIBLE RANGE or LIGHT – spans 380 to 700 nm. As the name

suggests, this range is visible to the naked eye. It is also the
strongest output range of the Sun's total irradiance spectrum.

. INFRED range – that span 700 nm to 1,000,000 nm (1 mm). It

comprises an important part of the electromagnetic radiation
that reaches the Earth. Scientists and researchers divide the
infrared range into three types on the basis of wavelength:

– Infrared-A: 700 nm to 1,400 nm

– Infrared-B: 1,400 nm to 3,000 nm

– Infrared-C: 3,000 nm to 1 mm
INTENSITY IN THE
SOLAR SYSTEM
DIFFERENT BODIES OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM:

Different bodies of the Solar System receive light of an

intensity inversely proportional to the square of their distance
from the Sun.

ON VENUS:

The actual brightness of sunlight that would be observed at

the surface also depends on the presence and composition of
the atmosphere. For instance, Venus's thick atmosphere
reflects more that 60% of the solar light at it receives. That
actual illumination of the surface is about 14,000 lux,
comparable to that on Earth, “in the daylight with overcast
clouds”.

ON MARS:

Sunlight on Mars would be more or less like daylight on Earth

during a slightly overcast day and, as can be seen in the
pictures that is taken by the rovers, there is enough diffuse
sky radiation that shadows would not seem particularly dark.
Thus, it would give perceptions and, “feel” very much like
Earth daylight. The spectrum on the surface is slightly redder
than that on Earth, due to the scattering by reddish dust that
is in the Martian atmosphere.

ON SATURN:

For comparison, sunlight on Saturn is slightly brighter than

that of Earth sunlight at the average sunset or sunrise.

ON PLUTO:

Even on Pluto, the sunlight would still be bright enough to

almost match the average living room. To see sunlight as dim
as full moonlight on Earth, a distance of about 500 AU (~69
light hours) is needed; only a handful of objects in the Solar
System has been discovered that are known to orbit farther
than such a distance, among them 90377 Sedna and (87269)
2000,00.

Mars sunset. The sunlight on Mars is

dimmer then that on Earth. This image
photo was taken by the Mars Pathfinder.
THE VARIATIONS IN
SOLAR IRRADIANCE
SEASONAL AND ORBITAL VARIATIONS:

Here on Earth, the solar radiation varies with the angle of the
Sun above the horizon, with longer sunlight duration at higher
latitudes during summer, varying to no sunlight at all in winter
near the pertinent pole. When the direct radiation is not
blocked by clouds, it is experienced as sunlight. The warming
of the ground, (and other objects) depends on the absorption
of the electromagnetic radiation in the form of heat.

The amount of radiation intercepted by a planetary body

varies inversely with the square of the distance between the
stars and the planet. Earth's orbit and obliquity changes with
time, over thousands of years, sometimes forming a nearly
perfect circle, and at other times stretching out to an orbital
eccentricity of 5% (currently 1.67%).

As the orbital eccentricity changes, the average distance from

the Sun (the semimajor axis does not significantly vary, and so
the total isolation over a year remains almost constant due to
Kepler's second law.
However, the seasonal and latitudinal distribution and
intensity of solar radiation received at Earth's surface does
vary.

The effect of the Sun's angle on climate results in the change

in the solar energy in the summer and in the winter. For
example, at latitudes of65 degrees, this can vary by more than
25% as a result of Earth's orbital variation.

Because of the changes in winter and summer tend to offset,

the change in the annual average isolation at a given location
is near zero, but the redistribution of energy between summer
and winter does strongly affect the intensity of seasonal
cycles. Such changes associated with the redistribution of
solar energy are considered a likely cause for the coming and
going of recent ice ages.

SOLAR INENSITY VARIATIONS:

Space based observations by NASA, of solar irradiance started

in 1978. These measurements that was taken by scientists
showed that the solar constant is not constant. It varies on
many time scales, including the 11 year sunspot solar cycle.

When going further back in time, one has to rely on irradiance

reconstructions, using sunspots for the past 400 years or
cosmic radionuclides for going back 10,000 years. Such
reconstruction has been done.

These studies show that in addition of the solar irradiance

variation with the solar cycle (the (Schwabe) cycle), the solar
activity varies with longer cycles, such as the proposed 88 year
(Gleisberg cycle), 208 year (DeVries cycle) and 1,000 year
(Eddy cycle).
SOLAR IRRADIANCE
THE SOLAR CONSTANT:

The solar constant is a measure of flux density, is the amount

of incoming solar electromagnetic radiation per unit area that
would be incident on a plane perpendicular to the says, at a
distance of one astronomical unit (AU), (roughly the mean
distance from the Sun to Earth).

The solar constant includes all types of solar radiation, not just
the visible light. Its average value was thought to be
approximately 1,3666 W/m2, varying slightly with solar
activity, but recent recalibrations of the relevant satellite
observations indicate a value that is much closer to 1,362
W/m is more realistic.

(TSI) AND (SSI):

Since the year 1979, a series of overlapping NASA and ESA

satallite experiments have measured “Total Solar Irradiance”
or (TSI) the amount of solar radiation received at the top of
Earth's atmosphere as 1.365 kilowatts per square meter
(kW/m2). TSI observations continue with the
ACRIMSAT/ACRIM3, SOHO/VIRGO, and SORCE/TIM satellite
experiments. The observations that was taken revealed
variations ofTSI on any timescales, including the solar
magnetic cycle and many short period cycles.

TSI provides the energy the drives Earth's climate, so

continuation of the TSI time series database is critical to
understand the role of solar variability in climate change.

Since 2003, the SORCE Spectral Irradiance Monitor (SIM) has

monitored SPECTRAL SOLAR IRRADIANCE (SSI), the spectral
distribution of the TSI. Data that was collected indicate that
SSI at UV (ultraviolet) wavelength corresponds in a less clear,
and probably more complicated fashion, with Earth's climate
responses than earlier assumed, fuelling broad avenues of
new research in “the connection of the:

– Sun and atmosphere,

– troposphere,
– biosphere,

– oceans,

– and Earth's climate.”

SURFACE ILLUMINATION
AND SPECTRUM
The spectrum of surface illumination depends upon solar
elevation due to atmospheric effects, with the blue spectral
components dominating during twilight before and after
sunrise and sunset, respectively, and red dominating during
sunrise and sunset. These two effects are apparent in natural
light photography where the principal source of illumination is
sunlight as mediated by the atmosphere.

Sunlight shining through the clouds,

giving rise to crepuscular rays.
SPECTRAL COMPOSITION (AT EARTH'S SURFACE)

The Sun may be said to illuminate, which is a measure of the

light within a specific sensitivity range. Many animals,
including us humans have a sensitivity range of approximately
400 to 700 nm, and given optimal conditions the absorption
and scattering by Earth's atmosphere provides illumination
that approximates an equal energy illuminant for most of this
range.

The useful range for colour vision in humans, for example, is

approximately 450 to 650 nm. Aside from effects that arise at
sunset and sunrise, the spectral composition changes
primarily in respect to how directly sunlight is able to
illuminate. When the illumination is direct, Rayleigh scattering
in the upper atmosphere will lead blue wavelengths to
dominate. Water vapour in the lower atmosphere produces
further scattering and ozone, dust and water particles will also
absorb particular wavelengths.
Spectrum of the visible wavelengths at approximately sea
level; illumination by direct sunlight compared with direct
sunlight scattered by cloud cover and with indirect sunlight by
varying degrees of cloud cover. The yellow line showes the
power spectrum of direct sunlight under optimal conditions.
To aid comparison, the other illumination conditions are
scaled by the factor shown in the key so they match at above
470 nm (blue light).
ALL LIFE ON EARTH
ALL LIFE ON EARTH:

AUTOTROPHS:

The existence of nearly all life that is on the Earth is fueled by

light from the Sun. Most autoprophs, such as plants, use the
energy of sunlight, combined with carbon dioxide and water,
to produce simple sugars, which is a process known as
photosynthesis. These sugars are then used as building blocks
and in other synthetic pathways that allow the organism to
grow.

HETEROTROPHS:

Heterotrophs, - such as animals, use light from the Sun

indirectly by consuming the products of autotrophs, either by
consuming autotrophs, by consuming their products, or by
consuming other hetertrophs. The sugars and other molecular
components produced by the autotrophs are then broken
down, releasing stored solar energy, and giving the
heterotroph the energy that is required for survival. This is
known as cellular respiration.

PREHISTORY:

In prehistory, humans began to further extend this process by

putting plants and animals materials to other uses. They used
animal skins for warmth, for example, or wooden weapons to
hunt. These skills allowed humans to harvest more of the
sunlight than was possible through glycolysis alone, human
population began to grow and multiply.

NEOLITHIC REVOLUTION:

During the Neolithic Revolution, the domestication of plants

and animals further increased human access to solar energy.
Fields devoted to planting crop were enriched by inedible
plant matter, providing sugars and nutrients for future
harvests. Animals that had previously provided humans with
only meat and tools once they were killed were now used
for labour throughout their lives, fueled by grass that is
inedible to humans.

Fossil fuels are the remnants of ancient plant and animal

matter, that is formed using energy from sunlight and then
trapped within Earth for millions of years.
 CULTURAL ASPECTS

Edouard Manet painting (1862 to 1863)

IN ART:

The effect of sunlight is revelant to painting. Evidenced for

instance in works of Edouard Manet and Claude Monet on
outdoor scenes and landscapes.

MANY PEOPLE:

Many people find direct sunlight to be too bright for comfort;

indeed looking directly at the Sun can cause long term vision
damage. To compensate for the brightness of sunlight, many
people today were sunglasses. Cars, many helmets and caps
are equiped with what is called a “visor”, to block the Sun
from direct vision when the Sun is at a low angle.

Sunlight is often blocked from entering buildings through the

use of:

– walls,

– window blinds,
 – awnings,

– shutters,

– curtains,

– or near by shade trees.

Sunshine exposure is needed biologically for the production of

Vitamin D in the skin, that is a vital compound that is needed
to make strong bones and muscles in the body.

IN THE WORLD:

In many world religions, such as Hinduism, the Sun is

considered to be a god, as it is the source of life and energy on
Earth. The Sun was also considered to be a god in Ancient
Egypt.

SUNBATHING:
Sunbathing is a very popular leisure activity in which a person
sits or lies in direct sunlight. Many people often sunbathe in
comfortable places where there is ample sunlight. Some
common places for sunbathing includes:

– beaches,

– open air swimming pools,

– parks,

– gardens,

– sidewalk cafes.

Sunbathers typically wear limited amounts of clothing or

some simply do nude “in their birthday suit”. For some, an
alternative to sunbathing is the use of sunbeds that generate
ultraviolet light and can be used indoors regardless of the
weather conditions that are outside. Tanning beds have been
banned in a number of different states and countries in the
world.

For many people with light skin, one purpose for sunbathing
is to darken one's skin colour, (getting a sun tan), as this is
considered in some different cultures to be attractive,
associated with outdoor activity, vacations/holidays, and
health. Some people prefer naked sunbathing so that an, “all
over” or “even” tan can be obtained, sometimes as part of a
specific lifestyle.

Controlled heliotherapy, or sunbathing, has been used as a

treatment for psoriasis and other maladies.

Skin tanning is achieved by an increase in the dark pigment

inside skin cells called melanocytes, and is an automatic
response mechanism of the body to sufficient exposure to
ultraviolet radiation from the Sun or from artificial sunlamps.
Thus, the tan gradually disappears with time, when a person is
no longer exposed to these sources.
Sunbathing on the beach, Picture # 1

Sunbathing on the beach, Picture # 2

 Using a tanning bed, Picture # 1

Person using a tanning bed, Picture # 2

Sun Lamp, Picture # 1
EFFECTS ON HUMAN HEALTH
The ultraviolet radiation in sunlight has both positive and
negative health effects, as it is both a principal source of
Vitamin D3 and a mutagen. A dietary supplement can supply
vitamin D without the mutagenic effects, but bypasses natural
mechanisms that would prevent overdoses of vitamin D
generated internally from sunlight.

Vitamin D has a wide range of positive health effects, which

include strengthening bones and possibly inhibiting the
growth of some cancers. Sun exposure has been associated
with the timing of melatonin synthesis, maintenance of
normal rhythms, and reduced risk of Seasonal Affective
Disorder (SAD).

LONG TERM SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE is known to be associated

with:

– the development of skin cancer,

– skin aging,

– immune suppression,

– eye disease such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

SHORT TERM OVER EXPOSURE is the cause of:

– sunburn,

– snow blindness,

– and solar retinopathy.

UV RAYS, and therefore sunlight and sunlamps, are the only

listed carcinogens that are known to heave health benefits,
and a number of public health organizations state that there
needs to be a balance between the risks of having too much
sunlight to having too little sunlight. There is a general
consensus that sunburn should always be avoided.

EPIDEMIOLOGICAL DATA shows that people who have more

exposure to sunlight have less high blood pressure and
cardiovascular related morality. While sunlight (and its UV
rays) are a risk factor for skin cancer, “sun avoidance may
carry more of a cost than benefit for over all good health”. A
study found that there is no evidence that UV reduce lifespan
in contrast to other risks factors like smoking, alcohol and high
blood pressure.
ON THE NEGAVIVE SIDE:

The UV is a mutagen and carcinogen for the skin. Acute

exposure may lead to a painful sunburn, which can increase

the chances of developing serious skin problems later in life.

Long term exposure is known to be associated with
developing skin cancer, skin aging, immune suppression and
other diseases, like cataracts and macular degeneration.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF
SUNLIGHT
Here are some of the health benefits of sunlight:

. IMPROVES YOUR SLEEP

Your body creates a hormone that is called melatonin which is

vital to helping you to sleep. Because your body starts
producing this hormone when it is dark, and you usually start
to feel sleepy two hours after the sun sets,that is one reason
your bodies naturally stays up later in the summer.

Studies indicate that an hour of natural light in the morning

will help you sleep better. Sunlight regulates your citcadian
rhythm by informing your body when to increase and
decrease your maletonin levels.

So the more sunlight exposure that you get, the better your
body will produce maletonin when it is time for you to go to
sleep.

. REDUCES STRESS
Maletonin also lowers stress reactivity and being outside will
help your body naturally regulate maletonin, that can help to
reduce your stress levels. Additionally, because you are often
doing something active when you're outside, (like walking or
playing), that extra exercise also helps to lower stress.

. MAINTAIN STRONG BONES

One of the best and easiest ways to get vitamin D is by being

outside. Your body produce vitamin D when you are exposed
to sunlight, about 15 minutes in the sun a day is adequate if
you are fair skinned. And since vitamin D helps the body to
maintain calcium and prevents brittle, thin or misshapen
bones, soaking in the sun may be just what the doctor
ordered.

. HELPS TO KEEP WEIGHT OFF

Getting outside for about 30 minutes sometimes between 8

A.M. and noon has been linked to weight loss. There, of
course, could be other factors to this, but it seems that there
is a connection between sunlight in the early morning and
weight loss.

. STRENGTHENS YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM

Vitamin D is also vital for your immune system, and with

consistent exposure to sunlight can help to strengthen it. A
healthy immune system can help to reduce the risk of:

– illnesses,

– infections,

– some cancers,

– and morality after surgery.

. FIGHTS OFF DEPRESSION

It's not just in your head; there is a scientific reason being in

the sunlight improves your mood. Sunlight boosts your body's
level of serotonin, which is the chemical that improves your
mood and helps you to stay calm and focused. Increased
exposure to natural light may help to ease the symptoms of
seasonal affected disorder (SAD), a change in mood that
typically occur in the fall and winter months when there is few
hours of daylight.

CAN GIVE YOU A LONGER LIFE

A study that was done in Switzerland that followed 30,000

women revealed that those who spent more time in the sun
lived six months to two years longer than those with less sun
exposure.

However, a little sunshine can go a long way and too much is

harmful for your skin. Depending on the shade of your skin,
scientists estimate that your body can produce vitamin D is
about 5 to 30 minutes in the sun. If you are wearing
sunscrean, you may not produce as much vitamin D. If you're
outside for some much needed vitamin D, don't expose bare
skin longer than 5 to 30 minutes.

SUNLIGHT PRODUCES SEROTONIN

Most everyone has experienced feeling blah and lazy on a

grey day, and and the reverse happy and energetic on a sunny
day. This is caused by serotonin, or the lack of it. “Exposure to
sunlight can improve your mood, reduce symptoms of
depression and anxiety, and increase feelings of happiness
and well being,” explains Dr. Grant Radermacher, DC, who
also explains that serotonin regulates mood and helps
regulate your ciradian rhythm, which can improve sleep
quality, and with healthy sleep, make you less likely to feel
down or grumpy.

SUNSHINE WAKES US UP

The morning sunshine helps us to sleep and wake up. When

exposed to naturally occuring sunlight in the morning
immediately after waking up, adenosine levels lower, which
increase our energy and ability to deal with inflammation and
infections, and decreases the feeling of sleepiness from
adenosine.

SUNLIGHT REDUCES INFLAMMATION

Inflammation in the body is a concern, especially systemic

inflammation. Sunshine has anti-inflammatory effects on the
body and fights against chronic inflammatory diseases.

IMPROVES CERTAIN SKIN CONDITIONS

Because sunlight reduces overall inflammation, direct

sunlight, for more that 10 to 15 minutes is said to be safe, it
can also help to reduce inflammation on the surface of the
skin. Sunlight exposure can help to treat certain skin
conditions such as acne, psoriasis and eczema. Vitamin D that
is produced by sunlight exposure also helps promote the
skin's ability to heal.
SUNLIGHT FOR YOUR
HEALTH
SUNLIGHT

The sun helps the body to produce vidamin D, which is

beneficial for your health, just make sure that your skin is
protected.

“WOW, IT'S SUMMER”, and for many people that means

spending time outside. Getting some sunlight on your arms
and face every day can be beneficial to your body and mind.
Of course, skin cancer is also a major concern

Skin Cancer.
And should be taken very seriously. It is important that you
are protecting your skin from ultraviolet (UV) radiation from
the sun, but as long as you are taking precautions, soaking up
a few daily sunshine can have positive effects on your overall
health.

BEING IN THE SUN

There are plenty of good things the sun can do for you. Those
big health benefits comes from the visible light of the sun,
(the light that we can see versus the more harmful UV light,
which is the light that we can't see), and the D vitamin that
your body makes when your skin is exposed to the sun. Here I
listed some of the benefits of sunlight for your health.

– Mental health boost,

– Strong and healthy bones,

– Cancer prevention,
– Clear skin,

– Promotes better sleep,

– Increases energy,

– Promotes weight loss,

– Healthy eyes,

– Lowers blood pressure,

– Improves healing,

– Burns fat,

– Boosts the immune system,

– Improves blood circulation,

– Improves endocrine health,

– Improves, and uplift your mood,

– Prevents depression,

– Improves sexual health,

– Relieving pain,

– Promoting relaxation,

– Helping people feel more alert,

 – Increasing job satisfaction, when a person's workplace
has access to sunlight,

– Promotes a sensation of well-being.

LOWER RISK OF METABOLIC SYNDROME

In a study that was done in 2020 in mice suggested that the

sun's light can help to decrease the risk of developing
metabolic syndrome, which includes high blood pressure,
excess body fat, and high blood sugar.

This might be because a certain wavelength in sunlight can

travel deep enough in the body to have an effect on certain
types of adipose (fat) tissue that might protect against
metabolic syndrome.

HEAL INFLAMMATION

According to Dr. Goldstein, the sunlight triggers suppression

of the immune system. While it is not a prescription to spend
a lot of time in the sun getting UV radiation, the sun can help
with inflammatory skin conditions, (like I mentioned earlier),
such as acne, psoriasis and eczema.

Sunlight has also been associated with improving autoimmune

diseases, such as:

– arthritis,

– and inflammatory bowel disease.

EXTENDED LIFE EXPECTANCY

There is some thought that by getting enough sunlight and

therefore, adequate levels of vitamin D, you can live longer.
There was a study done on 30,000 women over 20 years that
indicated that those who spent more time in the sun lived up
to two years longer than those who got less sun.

WHAT HAPPENS IF NOT ENOUGH SUNLIGHT?

The question is, “What happens if you don't get enough
sunlight?”, Of course, not getting enough sunlight can have
negative effects on both your body and mind.

A lack of sunlight, such as during the winter months, can lead

to a form of depression that is called, Seasonal Affective
Disorder (SAD). This type of depression where the changes in
season effects your mood and you experience serious mood
swings.

It can start in late fall or early winter and cause you to feel
down, or have the, “Winter Blues”.

Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Getting enough

vitamin D, and using a lightbox, or a sun lamp can help during
the dark winter months.
Lack of sunlight.
 WHAT TO KNOW
ABOUT THE BENEFITS
“From promoting the
growth of plants and crops
to keeping people warm,
sunlight is essential for all
life. In addition, many
people enjoy the feeling of
sunlight, and there is
increasing evidence to
support its many health
benefits.”
A widespread awareness of the fact that too much sun
exposure to UV radiation can cause skin cancer has prompted
many people to be more cautious about spending time in the
sun.

However, just as it is important for people to protect

themselves from getting too much sun, they should also make
sure that they get enough to enjoy the health benefits that
the sunlight provides.

Finding the right balance can help people to maintain optimal

levels of vitamin D and enjoy the mental health benefits of a
sunny day without placing themselves at risk.

Of all the health benefits of sunlight, initiating the process of

producing vitamin D in the body may be the best known.
When UVB rays hit human skin, they interact with the 7-DHC
protein there to produce vitamin D3.

People can get vitamin D from their diet and from store
bought vitamin supplements, but sunlight is an important
source of this essential nutrient. Vitamin D is necessary for
key biological processes to take place in the body. As I
mentioned previously its benefits include:

– managing calcium levels,

– supprting bone health,

– reducing inflammation,

– supporting the immune system and glucose metabolism.

Scientists have noted that a link between exposure to the sun

and lower blood pressure levels, with reduced death rates
from cardiovascular disease.

According to other research and studies, increased sun

exposure may also protect people from the following disease:

– type-1-diabetes,

– multiple sclerosis (MS),

 – Several forms of cancer, such as breast, colon, and
prostate cancer, and also non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

Sunlight also supports better sleep and sets people's circadian

rhythms by regulating the levels of serotonin and melatonin.

ALTERNATIVES TO SUNLIGHT

Both SAD and depression are treatable. Medication and

therapy can both be effective, and some interventions harness
the health benefits of sunlight.

These interventions allow many people to find other ways to

access these health benefits, which is particularly vital for

people who:

– live in parts of the world where there is a significant

difference across seasons in the available daylight hours,
 – work in occupations that keep them indoors for extended
periods,

– must limit their exposure to natural sunlight for other

reasons.

LIGHT THERAPY

Light therapy is a standard treatment for SAD and can be an

effective alternative to sunlight. Light therapy regimens, that
take place under a medical professional's supervision, require
individuals to sit in front of specially constructed, very bright
light boxes for a prescribed amount of time each day.

Mental Health America reports that light therapy is helpful in

85% of diagnosed cases.

Antidepressant medications can also be beneficial for people

that suffer from SAD. Some research that was done found that
increasing vitamin D intake can reduce SAD symptoms in some
cases.
Individuals whose diet or lifestyle limits their body's ability to
manufacture this vitamin can take it in supplement form.
THE ROLES OF VITAMIN D
 Vitamin D is essential for
bone strength and may
support the immune system
and many other functions.
The human body produces
vitamin D as a response to
sun exposure. A person can
also boost their vitamin D
intake through certain
foods or supplements.
VITAMIN D

Vitamin D is essential for maintaining healthy bones and

teeth. It also plays many different roles that is very important
in the body, including regulating inflammation and protecting
the immune functions.

Despite its name, vitamin D is not a vitamin it is a hormone or

prohormone.

Vitamin D plays a critical role in many different bodily

functions.

HEALTHY BONES

Vitamin D promotes intestinal calcium absorption and it helps

to maintain adequate blood levels of calcium and phosphorus,
which is necessary for healthy bone mineralization.
Vitamin D deficiency in children can cause rickets, leading to a
bowlegged appearance due to the softening of the bone
structure. Similarly, in adults, vitamin D deficiency manifests
as osteomalacia or a softening of the bones. Osteomalacia
results in poor bone density and muscular problems.

IMMUNE SYSTEM FUNCTIONS

An adequate intake of vitamin D may support good immune

function ans reduce the risk of autoimmune diseases.

Many scientists suggest that vitamin D plays an important role

in immune function. They believe there may be a link between
long term vitamin D deficiency and the development of
autoimmune conditions, such as:

– diabetes,

– asthma,

– and rheumatoid arthritis.

While test tube studies have shown that vitamin D to have

a positive effect on the immune response of human cells,

researchers are yet to replicate these findings in controlled
human trials.

DEFICIENCY

Although the body can create vitamin D, some people are

more likely to be at risk of a deficiency than others. Factors
that can influence this include:

. SKIN COLOUR: Pigmentation in the skin reduces the body's

ability to absorb ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun.
Absorbing sunlight is essential for the skin to produce vitamin
D.

. LACK OF SUN EXPOSURE: People who live in northern

latitudes or areas of high pollution, work on the night shift, or
are home bound should aim to consume vitamin B from food
sources whenever possible.
. BREASTFEEDING:The American Academy of Pediatrics
recommend that all breastfed infants receive 400
international units (IU) per day of oral vitamin D.

. OLDER ADULTS: The skin's ability to synthesize vitamin D

decreases with age. Older adults may also spend mote of their
time indoors.

. THOSE WITH CONDITIONS THAT LIMIT FAT ABSORPTION:

Vitamin D is fat soluble, meaning intake is dependent on the
gut absorbing dietary fats. Conditions that limit fat absorption
can decrease vitamin D.

. PEOPLE WITH OBESITY: High levels of body fat can limit the
body's ability to absorb vitamin D from the skin.

. PEOPLE FOLLOWING A GASTRIC BYPASS: This surgery

bypasses a part of the upper intestine that absorbs large
amounts of vitamin D. This bypass can cause a vitamin D
deficiency.
THE SYMPTOMS

The majority of people with a vitamin D deficiency do not

present with symptoms. However, a chronic deficiency may
cause hypocalcemia, a calcium deficiency disease, and
hyperparathyroidism, where the parathyrois glands create a
hormone imbalance that raises the blood calcium levels.

These conditions can lead to secondary symptoms such as the

following:

– bone fragility, especially in older adults

– osteoporosis

– bone pain

– fatigue

– muscle twitching

– arthralgias,
 – or joint stiffness.

If vitamin D deficiency continues for a long period of time, it

may result in complications such as these listed below:

– cardiovascular

– autoimmune problems conditions

– neurological diseases

– infections

– pregnancy complications

– certain cancers such as, breast, prostate, and colon

VITAMIN D IN INFANTS

Infancy and childhood is a period of rapid growth, (bone

growth). Due to this essential for infants to get adequate
amounts of vitamin D.
Chronic vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets, which is the
softening of the bone tissue that can lead to the malformation
of bone and joints.

Vitamin D deficiency also has links to high blood pressure and

hypertension in children. However in a study that was done in
2018 found a possible connection between low vitamin D
levels and arterial wall stiffness in children.

The American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology

(AAAAI) suggest a connection between low vitamin D
exposure and an increased risk of allergic sensitization.

For example, children who live closer to the equator have

lower rates of admission to the hospital for allergies and
fewer prescriptions for epinephrine auto injector, or EpiPens.
They are also less likely to have a peanut allergy.

VITAMIN D IN PREGNANCY
In a 2020 study researchers have found that there may be an
association between higher vitamin D concentrations during
pregnancy and a decreased risk of preeclampsia and
premature birth. However the scientists need well designed
clinical trials with vitamin D supplementation in order to
better define associations.

Some research associates a poor Vitamin D status with

gestational diabetes. Treating vitamin D deficiency may also
reduce the risk of asymtomatic bacterial vaginosis in pregnant
people. However, there was conflicting research found no
links between vitamin D supplementation and the prevention
of bacterial vaginosis.

There may be an association between adequate vitamin D

intake during pregnancy, and a reduced risk of asthma and
food allergy, development in the resulting newborn.

However, the evidence is not definite, and more research and

more studies have to be done.
SOURCES OF VITAMIN D

People can often get the majority of their vitamin D intake

from sunlight exposure. However, people at risk of developing
vitamin D deficiency, and many other people, cannot solely
rely on sunlight exposure for vitamin D production.

During the winter months, when the sun is not as strong,

everyone can benefit from vitamin D supplements.

The following foods are a good source for vitamin D:

– fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna and mackerel,

– beef liver,

– mushrooms,

– fortified milk,

– fortified cereals and juices.

DOSAGE
DOSAGE AMOUNT:

People can measure vitamin D intake in micrograms (mcg) or

international units (IU). One mcg of vitamin D is equal to 40
IU.

The recommended daily intake of vitamin D are as follows:

Demographic – Recommended daily intake

Infant 0 to 12 months – 400 IU (10 mcg)

Children 1 to 18 years – 600 IU (15 mcg)
Adults up to 70 years – 600 IU (15 mcg)
Adults over 70 years – 800 IU (20 mcg)
Pregnant or lactating women – 600 IU (15 mcg)
THE RISKS OF
VITAMIN D
The upper limit that healthcare professionals recommend for
vitamin D is 4,000 IU per day, for an adult. However, the
National Institute of Health (NIH) reports that vitamin D
toxicity is unlikely at intakes of 10,000 IU per day.

Vitamin D toxicity is typically the result of inappropriate

supplement doses and prescription errors.

Excessive vitamin D consumption can lead to hypercalcemia,

or a bones a the hardening of blood vessels, kidneys, lungs,
and heart tissues.

Hypercalcemia can be life threatening and it requires

immediate medical attention.

The most common symptoms of excessive vitamin D includes

headaches and nausea. However, too much vitamin D can also
lead to the following:
 – dry mouth,

– loss of appetite,

– a metalic taste in the mouth,

– vomiting,

– constipation,

– diarrhea.

Excessive vitamin D usually occurs from accidental over

consumption and prescription errors.

If someone is taking supplements, they should choose their

brand carefully, as the Food and Drug Administeration (FDA)
does not monitor the safety or the purity of supplements the
same way that it does pharmaceuticals.

A complete diet and regular eating pattern are most

important in disease prevention and good health.
“It is better to eat a
diet with various
nutrients than to
concentrate on a few
nutrients.”
SOME SAFETY TIPS
RELATED: When to seek treatment for Seasonal Affective
Disorder (SAD)

Vitamin D deficiency can happen in both children and in

adults.

In adults, low levels of vitamin D can cause you to feel

fatigued, have pain in your bones, muscle weakness, and can
effect or change your mood.

In children, low levels of vitamin D can cause a disease called

rickets. “This results in poor growth patterns, weakness in
muscles, bone pain, and joint deformities.” Dr. Parcells says.
Untreated, it can cause the ends of long bones and legs to
eventually enlarge and the ribcage can become deformed.

SUN SAFETY TIPS

While I can list plenty of good things about the sun, it is very
important to balance catching rays with protecting yourself
from sunburn and skin cancer.

We have to realize, that skin cancer is a public health

epidemic. Melanoma is going to be the most common cancer
in men within the nest 15 to 18 years, and it is only going to
be second to breast cancer. Luckily, there are things that you
can do to reduce your risk.

. WEAR YOUR SUNSCREEN: - Zinc based sunscreen is the best

to use because it acts as a barrier on top of the skin. Chemical
based sunscreen works just fine also, but they are made of
synthetic ingredients. Make sure applying sunscreen is a part
of your daily routine, year round. Even in winter or on cloudy
days, you are still exposed to harmful effects of the sun.
CHOOSE a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.

. COVER UP: - Ware a hat to protect your head. One with a

brim helps protect your ears from sunlight exposure. Wear as
much clothing as you can tolerate without becoming
overheated.
Consider clothing with breathable fabric. There are even
clothes that you can buy that help protect you from UV
radiation. But unless you are outside a good part of the day on
a regular basis. Your usual clothing works just as well.

. WEAR SUNGLASSES: - The sunglasses not only protect your

eyes from the damaging effects of the sun, but they can also
shade your skin around your eyes and they can also make you
look well. If you are looking to buy a good sunglasses, then
look for one that provides 100% UV protection.

. AVOID THE SUN AT CERTAIN TIMES OF THE DAY: - The noon

sun is the strongest according to Dr. Goldstein, but 5 to 15
minutes of sun exposure is really at that a person needs. It is
best to avoid being out in the sun from 10.00 AM to 4.00 PM,
when you have the most risk of UV exposure.
SUNLIGHT AND PLANTS
Many successful gardeners know the critical role sunlight
plays in the health and productivity of their plants, but do
you?

You can give plants all the water and all the nutrients that
they need, but they will never survive without the right
amount of sunlight. You can turn struggling plants around
with giving them proper light.

The problem many people who fail to to a “green thumb”

share is not understanding that sunlight requirements vary
with different type of plants, whether these plants live
indoors or they live outdoors.

Plants require sunlight for what is called photosynthesis,

creating food for the plant to survive and grow to be healthy.

To help explain how photosynthesis works, just think of plant

leaves as tiny solar panels capturing the sun's radiation as
food to sustain growth.
The light energy converts into two forms: ATP (adenosine
triphosphate) and NADPH (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide
phosphate hydrogen).

“ IN SIMPLE TERMS, ATP MOLECULES

GIVE CELLS A
STEADY SUPPLY OF ENERGY TO WORK.
AT THE
SAME TIME, NADPH TURNS CARBON
DIOXIDE
INTO HIGH ENERGY SUGAR THE PLANT
CELLS
USE TO CREATE ORGANIC MOLECULES
SUCH AS GLUCOSE.”
Without sunlight and photosynthesis process, plants will
starve to death because they would not be able to make
useable food that allows their cells to function.

For houseplants, placing pots in windows or in sunny locations

is the only way for the plants to receive natural sunlight for
photosynthesis.

However, you can use artificial light to mimic the sun's energy
and trigger photosynthesis for plants that is not near a natural
sunlight source.

Some plants need direct sunlight for 6 to 8 hours per day for
optimal growth, while other plants do better with much less
light. Other plants do best in partial or full shade with low
sunlight exposure.

FOR OUTDOOR PLANTS

All outdoor plants will survive on direct or indirect sunlight as
long as they also get the water and carbon dioxide that they
need.

FOR INDOOR PLANTS

For indoor plants, the subject of light vs. Sunlight is more of an

issue. Natural sunlight is always the best for growing
houseplants indoors, whether it is direct or indirect sunlight.
But for houseplants that are away from windows, the type of
light receives from lamps or other light fixtures will determine
how well the plants use it for photosynthesis.
A standard LED, or incandescent lightbulb, provides the gree,
blue and red wavelengths that plants utilize for
photosynthesis.

RED LIGHTWAVE

If a bulb emits more red lightwaves, plants will grow more

leggy than normal, with fewer leaves, but it also triggers more
flowers to form.

BLUE LIGHTWAVE

If a bulb emits more blue lightwaves it will cause plants to

form thick leaves and a more compact shape.

GREEN LIGHTWAVE

All plants use green lightwaves for photosymthesis and reflect

the excess they don't need, which is the reason why the
leaves are green.

The best thing to do for indoor plants that need artificial light
is to buy special grow lights that provide the correct spectrum
and intensity of lightwaves for plants to flourish.
INDIRECT SUNLIGHT VS.
DIRECT SUNLIGHT
For plants, the difference between indirect and direct sunlight
can mean having healthy plants or those that wilt, turn
brown, have burn spots, or die.

INDIRECT SUNLIGHT

Indirect sunlight is light that has been travelling through a

medium, such as grass, tree leaves, or a sheer curtain before it
reaches the plant.

Most houseplants grow best with indirect light, so the plants

are ideal for indoor gardening. However, even houseplants
vary in how much indirect light they need to receive per day.

For example, most orchids love the bright indirect light on a

windowsill, but ferns prefer the less intense light away from
the window.

DIRECT SUNLIGHT
Direct sunlight occurs outdoors when there is no buffer
between the sun's rays and a plant.

Direct sunlight is very intense, especially during the summer

when daylight hours are the longest. Most plants, especially
vegetables and fruits, do the best in full direct sunlight for
6 or more hours per day, and as long as they receive sufficient
water.

PARTIAL SUNLIGHT

However, many other different plants prefer partial direct

sunlight, which means that the plant is in full sun during part
of the day with indirect light exposure for the remaining
hours.

The number of trees or structures on your property will

determine what areas get full direct sun all day versus areas
that receive partial direct sunlight.

THE CHANGES

The changes may be positive or negative, depending on how

much light that particular plant species need to produce
enough energy to grow to its full potential without overdoing
it.

Any increase in light intensity will boost the photosynthesis

rate of a plant because it is getting more energy from the sun
on the foliage.

However,

However, let us suppose that the plant is not receivin g

enough water or carbon dioxide. In that case, photosynthesis
will not increase as it needs all three to create the chemical
reaction that turns the light energy into sugar.

While having more energy to grow seems beneficial to a plant,

the act of photosynthesis can only happen up to a certain
threshold before other reactions begin to occur inside the
plant that can cause damage.

As an example, once all the chlorophyll molecules available in

a plant have absorbed the sun's radiation, the intensity of the
sunlight will start burning the foliage, damaging cell structure
and reducing the plant's ability to photosynthesize. Yes it's
true that most full sun plants can grow in the shade, but

they will struggle to survive without enough energy from

photosynthesis.

All plants that need full sun will begin to grow fewer leaves
and will produce fewer blooms. As they struggle to live, they
become prone to different types of diseases or pests that can
end up killing the plant.

WHAT DIRECTION GETS THE MOST SUN?

In the United States, which is in the Northern Hemisphere, the

direction that receives the most sun exposure is the south. As
the sun travels in the sky from east to west, it also passes to
the south during every season, but light intensity is stronger in
the summer.
The sun's path means that many outdoor plants that need full
sun should be on the south side of the house or as far away
from trees, bushes, or structures that cast shadows.

WHAT IS FULL SUN?

In most USDA planting zones, full sun means that your plant
will need a minimum of 6 hours of direct sun exposure from
late morning through late afternoon to grow well.

Be aware that in far northern regions, where the sunlight is

weaker, a full sun note on the packaging will mean your plants
will need a minimum of 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.

WHAT IS PARTIAL SUN?

Partial sun means that plants will need between 3 to 6 hours

of direct sun per day. Ideally, this sun is around midday.
WHAT IS FULL SHADE?

Full shade is a rarity to see on a seed or plant label since it

means that these plants require less than 3 hours of direct sun
per day to remain healthy. Many full shade plants can tolerate
a short amount of direct sunlight in the morning or in the
evening.

WHAT IS PARTIAL SHADE?

Partial shade on a label means that plants still require 3 to 6

hours of sun per day but should avoid the most intense
midday sun.

Many gardeners do not have the space to avoid large trees or

other objects that may impede sunlight for many hours of the
day. Dappled sunlight comes through the leaves of trees is
considered partial shade.
PHOTO GALLERY
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