Best Time To Get Vitamin D From Sun In Nigeria
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that our bodies require to maintain strong bones and teeth, support the immune system, and regulate mood. One of the best ways to get vitamin D is through exposure to sunlight. In Nigeria, the sun is abundant, but not all times of the day are optimal for getting vitamin D. This article will explore the best time to get vitamin D from the sun in Nigeria.
Why is vitamin D important?
Vitamin D is essential for the proper functioning of our bodies. It helps our bodies absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Vitamin D also supports the immune system, helps regulate mood, and may even reduce the risk of certain cancers.
There are two primary ways to get vitamin D: through exposure to sunlight and through diet. While some foods, such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products, contain vitamin D, it can be challenging to get enough vitamin D from diet alone.
When is the best time to get vitamin D from the sun in Nigeria?
The best time to get vitamin D from the sun in Nigeria is between 10 am and 3 pm. During this time, the sun is high in the sky, and the UVB rays that our bodies need to make vitamin D can penetrate the skin more easily.
It's important to note that you don't need to spend hours in the sun to get enough vitamin D. Just 15-20 minutes of sun exposure on your arms, face, and legs a few times a week can be enough to maintain healthy vitamin D levels.
What factors affect how much vitamin D you can get from the sun?
Several factors can affect how much vitamin D your body can produce from sun exposure:
- The time of day: As mentioned earlier, the best time to get vitamin D from the sun is between 10 am and 3 pm.
- The season: In Nigeria, the sun is more intense and higher in the sky during the dry season (November to March). This means that you can get more vitamin D from the sun during this time.
- Your skin color: People with darker skin require more sun exposure to produce the same amount of vitamin D as someone with lighter skin.
- Your location: The closer you are to the equator, the more vitamin D you can produce from the sun.
- The amount of skin exposed: The more skin you expose to the sun, the more vitamin D your body can produce.
What are the risks of too much sun exposure?
While it's essential to get enough vitamin D from the sun, it's also crucial to protect your skin from damage. Too much sun exposure can increase the risk of skin cancer, premature aging, and sunburn. To protect your skin, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, wear protective clothing, and avoid being in the sun during peak hours.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best time to get vitamin D from the sun in Nigeria is between 10 am and 3 pm. By getting just 15-20 minutes of sun exposure on your arms, face, and legs a few times a week during this time, you can maintain healthy vitamin D levels. Remember to protect your skin from damage by using sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and avoiding peak sun hours.