We've all heard the sun serves an important role in our health. It can help boost your mood, regulate your immune system, and even kill bacteria. One is it's most vital functions in terms of health, however, is its ability to boost our Vitamin D levels. But what happens when we apply sunscreen? Do we still absorb vitamin D from the Sun? Is this a real concern?
The idea that sunscreen can reduce the amount of vitamin D we absorb from the sun, making us more prone to vitamin D deficiency, has been around for over a decade. The truth is, however, while it does reduce absorption, normal usage does not result in an insufficient amount of Vitamin D. So, even when you apply sunscreen the recommended every two hours, your skin can still collect vitamin D.
Here are 5 other factors that influence vitamin D levels in our bodies
1. Quality of Air in our environment
We live in a polluted world, cities all over the world are covered with smog from factories and mufflers on cars that discharge harmful gases into the water and air. The levels of carbon monoxide and ozone in the atmosphere are rising rapidly, so it's no surprise that less vitamin D is produced when we stay indoors.
2. The time of day that you spend outside
The amount of sun exposure at different times of day can also affect how much vitamin D you absorb from the sun. This is because the angle of sunlight changes throughout the day, with UVB rays being more prominent in the morning and late afternoon.
3. Skin Color
People with darker skin who live in northern latitudes are highly susceptible to vitamin D deficiency because darker skin has a harder time absorbing UVB rays from the sun. So, if you have a darker complexion, be sure to protect your skin with sunscreen and make it a point to get a vitamin D supplement.
4. Skin Type
The skin type you have may make a difference as well. People with sensitive skin sometimes have a higher risk for vitamin D deficiency. This is due to their skins inability to effectively convert UVB rays into vitamin D3 (the active form of Vitamin D). So, if your skin is prone to eczema, psoriasis, or atopic dermatitis, it is best to stay out of the sun, wear SPF, and use a Vitamin D supplement.
Sunscreen is the best way to protect you and your skin from the sun's harmful rays. No need to worry that it will decrease the amount of vitamin D you absorb but vitamin D is very important. Vitamin D deficiencies are very serious and can cause problems with your bones, leading to increased risks for osteoporosis, cancers, cardiovascular disease, or even autoimmune disorders.
Make sure you are getting as much vitamin D in your diet as possible. Salmon, tuna, sardines, cod liver oil, and egg yolks are all excellent sources of Vitamin D. Additionally, you can look for foods and drinks fortified with Vitamin D such as cereals, yogurt, orange juice, and milk.
