There has been widespread concern that the use of sunscreen may lead to a significant decrease in the levels of Vitamin D in the skin.
Some facts about Vitamin D?
- Vitamin D is essential for healthy and strong bones;
- It supports a healthy immune system;
- UV radiation from the sun is the best source of Vitamin D;
- Vitamin D behaves more like a hormone than a vitamin and is made in the skin making its way to the blood stream;
- Generally, older people need more vitamin D than younger ones;
- Generally, bigger people need vitamin D more than smaller ones.
Top Tips for enhancing your Vitamin D levels and for Healthy Sun Exposure
- A healthy reverence for the sun is important. Never fall asleep, as tempting as it may be, in the sun without adequate protection;
- Sun can be your friend. Treat the sun as a powerful medication and use the lowest dose possible. This means the sun is at its weakest before 11 and after 4. In between these times, it is highly recommended to wear sunscreen;
- Avoid sunburn at all costs. It is this unhealthy sun exposure that is the problem. Repeated sunburn has been linked to melanoma;
- 20 minutes of unprotected sun. Adequate levels of unprotected sun has been shown to increase blood levels of vitamin D. this means to expose your arms and/or face to the sun at the time of the day when the sun is not at its strongest;
- Check your vitamin D levels regularly. This is important to keep track of your health;
- Sun not food is the best source of Vitamin D. Some foods are fortified with vitamin D and fatty wild fish has levels of vitamin D. However, the best source is still the sun;
- If necessary, take vitamin D3 supplements. In the winter, or when you are not exposed being to the sun, check your vitamin D levels. If they are low, make certain you supplement with no less than 2000 IU’s a day of Vitamin D.
Lastly, according to an article publish in the British Journal of Dermatology, the normal use of sunscreen generally does not have an impact on the Vitamin D levels.
Originally published on Feb 13, 2015
