tyw
Member
Note that even 20mins of decent UV exposure is already quite a feat in many countries such as UK. Not much UV morning or evenings when getting to and from work. At those times of the day, UV level can be low even when it is bright outside. 20mins in direct sunlight means you took a very decent break outside and avoided the shade. I don't think most people get that.
PS. Effects from forcing a response from the body? That could be true, and similar to the effects brought about by many foods and supplements. Always have to keep that in mind when interpreting studies and symptoms, the short term vs the long term.
Yes, most people in the world have a chronic lack of sunlight for either work scheduling reasons or otherwise. Modulation of habits to include sun exposure during a lunch break is probably the most preferable solution.
Note that UV light will penetrate most clouds (except the really low ones), so unless it is actually really foggy, going outside will lead to UV exposure. That said, London will dip into the UV index 1-4 levels for most of the months surrounding winter, and most people will be all covered up. Artificial light may therefore be a solution.
But is it a good idea to have an artificial UV bulb for the winter months? Depends .... on both current health status and on ancestry (genetics).
Firstly, I would begin any artificial light experiment with artificial red and full spectrum light, since these have much more predictable and less harmful effects. Full spectrum incandescent bulbs are Peat's preferred solution, and I tend to agree.
If UV bulbs are to be used, then it's probably best used to actually mimic natural sunlight -- ie: morning to noon exposure. Some people seem to have decent effects with UV bulb exposure upon waking. Again, Your Mileage will vary. Experiment with caution.
NOTE: I'm just here to emphasise that UV light is powerful and that any powerful tool needs to be treated with the appropriate respect.
....