Vitamin D From Sun Exposure Is Healthier Than You Think

The sun does not shoot out particles of Vitamin D so we would suspect the vitamin is produced in our skin cells, triggered by the absorption of the Ultra violet light (UV). Vitamin D is often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin”. That is because the human body can make vitamin D from casual sun exposure of short duration (as little as 5 to 15 minutes of sunshine per day, 2 to 3 times per week on the face and hands).

Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin that is stored in body fat. In general, adults (up to age 70) and children living in New York State can get enough casual sun exposure from March to October to store a significant amount of vitamin D. It can later be released for the body’s use during the winter months.

There are factors, however, that limit the body’s ability to make D vitamin supplement from sun exposure. Some of these factors include the use of sunscreen and/or sun protective clothing, cloudy northern climate, and window glass that blocks the sun. In addition, with aging (in senior adults over age 70), the ability to make vitamin D from sunlight exposure is greatly reduced. It is important to know that your body is not able to overdose on vitamin D from the sun; your body turns off vitamin D production when there is enough.

Unfortunately, you can overdose on the sun. Your skin can suffer damaging effects from too much sun. Therefore, it is important to never burn. To prevent sunburn and reduce the risk of skin cancer, strictly limit sun exposure to brief periods (5 to 15 minutes) and then apply sunscreen (SPF of 15 or higher). If your doctor or medical professional has advised you to avoid sun exposure, it is important to follow his or her advice.

All individuals especially those with a personal or family history of skin cancer should see a doctor or medical professional for regular skin checkups. People with a personal or family history of skin cancer should take total sun precautions (by putting on sunscreen 15 minutes before sun exposure or as prescribed), and obtain vitamin D from foods and/or supplements rather than from sun exposure. If you need to or choose to avoid sunlight, you can get enough vitamin D from other sources such as vitamin supplements.

Supplemental vitamin D is an excellent way of obtaining the needed ‘D’ that one needs each day if sun exposure is out of the question. Vitamin D supplements are available at your local and internet vitamins store.

*Statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Vitamin D is not intended to diagnose, treat and cure or prevent disease. Always consult with your professional health care provider before changing any medication or adding Vitamins to medications.