Can standing in the sun for 10 minutes give better quality vitamin D than pills?
We all know how important
Vitamin D
is for our overall health. Right from our bones to our immune system, Vitamin D is one of the most crucial compounds needed for our body. Strangely, even in a tropical country like ours that gets ample sunshine, we are still quite deficient in Vitamin D, due to limited sun exposure, constant air conditioning (which blocks out natural light), and indoor activities.
However, when it comes to Vitamin D, is sunlight (which also causes sun damage) better than supplements? Let's explore how sunlight and supplements compare, and whether 10 minutes in the sun can give you better vitamin D than pills.
Basics first
Not many know that the sun directly does not give you Vitamin D. When your skin is exposed to sunlight, specifically UVB rays, it makes vitamin D naturally. For this, the skin uses a cholesterol-related substance and turns it into vitamin D3, which then becomes active in your body after processing in the liver and kidneys.
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This natural process is the main way humans have gotten vitamin D for thousands of years.
Is 10 minute of sunlight enough?
This question has no straight answer. The amount of vitamin D your skin makes depends on many things - time of day, skin color, where you live, and how much skin is exposed. Sunlight is strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so short exposure during these hours helps produce vitamin D. (with sunscreen on your face) On the other hand, 10 minutes might be enough for some people but not for others.
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For example, people with darker skin need more sun exposure to make the same amount of vitamin D as lighter-skinned people.
How do supplements compare?
Vitamin D pills, usually vitamin D3, are an easy way to increase vitamin D levels. Studies show that supplements can raise vitamin D level quickly and effectively than sun exposure alone, especially if sun exposure is limited or inconsistent.
Sunlight or Pills?
Both sunlight and supplements effectively increase vitamin D, but they work differently.
Sunlight provides vitamin D naturally and may have additional health benefits beyond vitamin D production, such as improving mood and immune function. However, relying only on sunlight is generally not recommended because of weather, (cold, grey, rainy etc), location, skin type, and risk of skin damage.
Supplements are a reliable way to maintain vitamin D levels, especially in winter, or for people who spend most time indoors.
Doctors recommend using sunscreen to protect against skin cancer, which can reduce vitamin D production (but not eradicate it completely) So, supplements help fill the gap when sun exposure is not enough or safe.
Balance Is Key
Standing in the sun for 10 minutes can help your body make vitamin D, but it might not always be enough, depending on your skin and environment. Vitamin D supplements are a safe and effective way to boost your levels, especially if you cannot get regular sun exposure. However, before starting a supplement, consult your doctor first.
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