Low Vitamin D But Always In The Sun
Introduction
Vitamin D is essential for our body as it helps to regulate the levels of calcium and phosphorus in our blood. It is also important for maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and teeth. The primary source of vitamin D is sunlight, and hence it is also called the sunshine vitamin. However, it is possible to have low vitamin D levels even if you are always in the sun. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind low vitamin D levels despite being exposed to sunlight.
Skin Color
Skin color plays a significant role in the synthesis of vitamin D. People with darker skin tones have more melanin, which reduces the skin's ability to produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Therefore, individuals with darker skin tones may require more sun exposure than those with lighter skin tones to produce the same amount of vitamin D.
Sunscreen
Using sunscreen blocks the ultraviolet rays that are responsible for the synthesis of vitamin D in the skin. Even though sunscreen is necessary to protect the skin from harmful UV rays, it can also reduce the production of vitamin D. Therefore, it is advisable to spend some time without sunscreen to allow the skin to produce vitamin D.
Time of Day and Season
The time of day and season can also have an impact on the synthesis of vitamin D. The sun's angle affects the amount of UVB radiation that reaches the earth's surface, which is responsible for the production of vitamin D. The best time to get vitamin D from the sun is between 10 am and 2 pm when the sun is at its highest point. During winter months or in locations with limited sunlight, the skin may not produce enough vitamin D.
Dietary Intake
Vitamin D is not present in many foods, but some foods are fortified with vitamin D. It is also naturally found in fatty fish, egg yolks, and cheese. If you have low vitamin D levels, you may need to include more of these foods in your diet or take supplements.
Medical Conditions
Some medical conditions can affect the absorption of vitamin D in the body. These conditions include Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and cystic fibrosis. If you have any of these conditions, you may need to take higher doses of vitamin D supplements.
Conclusion
Low vitamin D levels can lead to various health problems, including weak bones, muscle weakness, and increased risk of infections. Even if you are always in the sun, you may still have low vitamin D levels due to various reasons. Therefore, it is important to get regular check-ups and speak to your doctor if you suspect you have low vitamin D levels. They may recommend supplements or suggest changes to your diet and lifestyle.