Due to the modern way of life, low vitamin D levels are highly prevalent around the world. The main source of vitamin D is the sun, which means you need to spend enough time in sunlight to keep them where you need them. This usually means about 15 minutes a day, with your face, forearms and lower legs uncovered. But not just whenever you have the time.
There’s actually a very specific time frame. The UVB rays, which are crucial for vitamin D production, are only strong enough between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. But where do you usually find yourself around that time? Most likely, in a stuffy office, production hall or at home. Sadly, sitting next to a sunny window indoors won’t do the trick, since the UVB rays can’t get through the glass – you have to be outdoors for that!
And there’s more. Staying in the shade and wearing sunscreen interferes with vitamin D synthesis, too – an SPF 30 reduces vitamin D production by more than 95%. Smog and air pollution play an important part in that too.
That’s why supplementation is recommended throughout the year, and is especially important from October to April. Take the test above to find out if you belong to a group of people who are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.