Research has shown that one of the most important ways we can maintain overall health and optimistic spirits is to get plenty of sunshine. Fortunately this is something we can access in great abundance without the cost of a monthly subscription or medical insurance. We can get hours of it for free practically any day of the week, unless of course we reside close to the North Pole in the winter. And even if we do live in a colder climate where we are forced to stay indoors most of the season, we can always ask our local roof repair contractor to install skylights to let the sun shine in!

Natural sunshine is a primary element in nurturing and energizing the human body. We absolutely must have to get all the nutrients from the food we eat. Having exposure to it in sufficient quantities is reported to help prevent ailments such as osteoporosis, type 2 diabetes, mental depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD) and certain types of cancer.

Vitamin D is vital to many processes in the body and we get it by spending time in sunlight. We have deposits of substances similar to cholesterol under our skin and these are converted to vitamin D when sunlight penetrates our skin. This vitamin is needed for us to absorb calcium through the intestinal tract and through the cell membranes. We need it for healthy, strong bones and a balanced nervous system. It also promotes the production of endorphins in the brain - the body's natural painkillers.

Vitamin D also helps:

• Prevent the growth of malignant tumors.
• Thwart the development of autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, Crohn's disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
• Increase the count of white blood cells and the capacity of the red blood cells for carrying oxygen.
• Prevent the infections that are caused by molds, viruses and bacteria.

Sunshine also helps to encourage a strong heart and cardiovascular system, normal blood pressure, increased metabolism and weight loss and overall goof organ function. It is one of the best things we can get into when we want cheer up from stress, anxiety and depression. Plenty of sunlight inside the home helps our house plants thrive and provide plenty of fresh oxygen.

Installing skylights is an ideal way to get the correct amount of sunlight we need daily in the winter when it's just too darn cold to go outside. Make sure your roofing contractor is experienced with this type of installation and knows how to get the best advantage of the sun's position for your home.