UVB Rays and Natural Vitamin D Absorption

by Lisa
(Alaska)

Since UVB rays are the ones you need to get your Vitamin D naturally I need to know during what time of the day are UVB rays available.

Are they available ONLY from 10-2?

It is sunny here in Utah until 8:00 at night.

Please tell me when is the PRIME time to make sure I am outside to get vitamin D-making UVB rays.

How long is sufficient time to avail myself of these rays. If I spent every day for 30 min a day in the UVB time, how long will I be stocked up for?

Thank you very much!

Lisa


RESPONSE


Hi Lisa,

Getting your vitamin D naturally is not as straightforward as popping a pill. The sun is our best source of vitamin D, but it is impossible for me to answer how much sunlight exposure you need as an individual.

Why? Here are some of the bigger variables for which you need to be aware.

First of all, is your skin very light, light, medium, dark, very dark? People with dark skin need much more sun exposure that those with light skin.

What is your age? As we get older, our bodies become less efficient at making vitamin D. This, again, would mean more time in the sun compared to a younger person.

Body fat matters too. If you are overweight, fat-soluble vitamin D can be stored in your fat tissue instead of getting used by your body.

What is your geographical location? I'm confused because you listed above that you were from Alaska, but in your question you stated Utah. Perhaps you are originally from Alaska and currently live in Utah?

In any event, location is the most important factor. People living in Utah can make vitamin D from sun exposure for close to half of the year. The farther away from the equator you are, the fewer months your body can make vitamin D from the sun.

For optimal vitamin D production, you should be out between 10am and 2pm. You should also have as much of your skin exposed as possible.

Studies are showing that we make the most vitamin D from our midsection, less on the arms and legs, and even less from our face and hands. Full body exposure is best.

And remember, if you use sunscreen, you will block those UVB rays.

Also, don't take vitamin D supplements on the days you are sun bathing.

And, of course, don't stay out long enough to burn.

Hopefully this will give you enough guidelines to go by.

If you have any other questions, or if something I said wasn't clear, let me know by clicking the comment link below.

Wishing you the best of health,

Melissa
Approach Wellness