Best Times To Get Vitamin D From Sun
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that plays a significant role in maintaining healthy bones and teeth. Our body produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. However, getting the right amount of vitamin D from the sun can be tricky. Too much exposure to sunlight can lead to skin damage, while inadequate exposure can result in vitamin D deficiency. In this article, we will discuss the best times to get vitamin D from the sun.
Why Is Vitamin D Important?
Vitamin D is important for several reasons. Firstly, it helps our body absorb calcium, which is necessary for strong bones and teeth. Secondly, it supports our immune system and helps fight infections. Thirdly, it plays a role in regulating insulin levels and supporting lung function.
How Much Vitamin D Do We Need?
The amount of vitamin D you need depends on your age, weight, and overall health. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the recommended daily intake of vitamin D is 600 IU (International Units) for individuals aged 1 to 70. For individuals above 70, the recommended intake is 800 IU.
When Should You Get Vitamin D From Sun?
Getting vitamin D from the sun is the most natural way to maintain adequate levels. However, the best time to get vitamin D from the sun is during midday when the sun is at its highest point in the sky. This is because UVB rays, which are responsible for vitamin D production, are most intense during this time.
It is recommended that you expose your skin to sunlight for about 10-30 minutes, two to three times a week, during midday. The amount of time you need to spend in the sun to produce enough vitamin D varies depending on factors such as skin color, age, and time of day.
What About Vitamin D In Winter?
During winter, the angle of the sun is lower, meaning that UVB rays are less intense. Therefore, it may be challenging to get enough vitamin D from the sun during this season. However, it is still possible to get vitamin D from the sun during winter by exposing your skin to sunlight for a more extended period.
If you live in an area where there is little or no sunlight during winter, you can get vitamin D from food sources such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk and cereal.
What About Cloudy Days?
Even on cloudy days, some UVB rays can penetrate through the clouds, meaning that you can still get vitamin D from the sun. However, the intensity of UVB rays may be reduced, meaning that you may need to spend more time in the sun to produce enough vitamin D.
Conclusion
Vitamin D is essential for maintaining good health, and getting enough of it from the sun is important. The best time to get vitamin D from the sun is during midday when UVB rays are most intense. However, it is essential to protect your skin from too much sun exposure to prevent skin damage.
During winter and cloudy days, it may be challenging to get enough vitamin D from the sun. Therefore, it is necessary to get vitamin D from other sources such as food and supplements.