By Gina Roberts-Grey

At last, some good news about the sun. Basking in its rays for 10 to 15 minutes each day increases levels of vitamin D in the blood enough to reduce your risk of breast, colon, prostate, and lung cancers, according to a recent study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. And since sunlight triggers vitamin D production in your body, the researchers say taking in the sun’s rays—without sunscreen—for about 15 minutes also helps you meet your daily vitamin D needs. Of course, if you plan on staying out longer, slather on the sunscreen to protect against skin damage and melanoma. On those unfortunate cloudy days, you can get your D dose from foods like salmon, fortified milk, and cereal, as well as supplements.