Vitamin D and Tassie

An estimated two-thirds of Tasmanian’s are vitamin D deficient during winter.¹ Low vitamin D levels are associated with increased frequency of infections, depression, osteoporosis, decreased muscle strength, cardiovascular disease and autoimmune conditions.²

Sunlight is the main source of Vitamin D. When skin is exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet-B (UVB) radiation, vitamin D is produced in the body. Only small quantities are found in food.

So how much sun exposure is needed to maintain optimal levels? This depends upon each individual’s genetics and geographical location. For example, darker skin tones are generally less responsive to UVB rays, and places closer to the north and south poles receive less UVB radiation.

Guidelines suggest that during summer, a few minutes of sun exposure with bare arms everyday is enough to sustain vitamin D levels during the summer months.³ However, during winter in locations as far south as Tasmania, supplementation is likely to be necessary to maintain optimal levels.² Chat to a naturopath or another health professional about your individual requirements.

¹ van der Mei, I. A., Dore, D., Winzenberg, T., Blizzard, L., & Jones, G. (2012). Vitamin D deficiency in Tasmania: a whole of life perspective. Internal medicine journal, 42(10), 1137–1144. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1445-5994.2012.02788.x

² Pittaway, J. K., Ahuja, K. D., Beckett, J. M., Bird, M. L., Robertson, I. K., & Ball, M. J. (2013). Make vitamin D while the sun shines, take supplements when it doesn't: a longitudinal, observational study of older adults in Tasmania, Australia. PloS one, 8(3), e59063. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0059063

³ Cancer Council (2016). How much sun is enough? https://www.cancer.org.au/media-releases/2016/how-much-sun-is-enough