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Advantages And Disadvantages Of Sunlight

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Advantages and Disadvantages of Sunlight

Sunlight is considered to be one of the most essential sources of energy on earth. Without it, autotrophs cannot carry out photosynthesis to produce glucose for respiration. Food chains will be significantly affected as every organism interacts with each other to form a complex, interlocking ecosystem. However, on the other hand, while the importance of sunlight is always emphasised, its potential harm to human health often arouses public concerns. In this essay, the advantages and disadvantages of sunlight will be discussed to find out if sunlight is a blessing or a curse to human health.

Vitamins are needed in small amounts in order for our body to function properly. They are usually consumed in food but vitamin D in particular, can be obtained from the sun. A lack of vitamin D can lead to muscle weakness and tiredness, leading to growth retardation or rickets in children and osteomalacia in adults. (Holick, 2011) Also, vitamin D can facilitate the absorption of calcium from the small intestine to maintain calcium homeostasis. (Christakos et al., 2011) It is useful in strengthening bones to prevent osteoporosis in later life. Furthermore, it is found in a study that colon and breast cancers can be prevented if the intake of vitamin D3 is increased. (Ucsdnews, 2007) Breast cancer is currently the most common cancer in the UK (Cancer Research UK, 2015) and if people increase their intake of vitamin D from the sun, the risk of

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