We’re aware that the sun plays a big role in our vitamin D levels. During autumn and winter, most of us could benefit from vitamin D supplements, but from late March onwards, the sun’s rays (in this part of the world) are strong enough to fire up our vitamin production.
What you may not know, however, is just how critical natural vitamin D absorption is to our longevity. According to 2020 study published in the International Journal Of Environmental Research And Public Health, insufficient daily sun exposure (and therefore vitamin D) might be responsible for a whopping 480,000 premature deaths in Europe. It went on to claim that a lack of sunlight could play a role in the increased rates of cancer, type 1 diabetes, dementia, asthma, multiple sclerosis and heart disease.
The right amount of sun exposure can be good for you. Sunshine triggers our body into producing an essential nutrient – vitamin D. This crucial vitamin plays a major role in keeping calcium and phosphate at optimal levels in our bodies, which is vital for maintaining healthy bones, teeth and muscles.
All you need is 25 minutes of sun exposure a few times a week to max out your skin’s natural Vitamin D production.
vitamin D helps to regulate the amount of calcium and phosphate in the body, which in turn to keep bones, teeth and muscles healthy.
You can’t overdose on vitamin D from sun exposure alone, so enjoy the natural benefits – but always prioritise safety. Remember to cover up or protect your skin if you’re out in the sun for extended periods to minimise the risk of skin damage and skin cancer.
According to the NHS, the Department of Health and Social Care recommends that adults and children over four take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of vitamin D throughout the year if they:
- Are not often outdoors – for example, if they’re frail or housebound
- Are in an institution like a care home
- Usually wear clothes that cover up most of their skin when outdoors
Vitamin D is also present in a small number of foods such as oily fish, red meat and egg yolks. Dietary supplements are another source of vitamin D, particularly recommended during the winter months when sunlight alone isn’t sufficient.
