Vitamin D from the sun lasts longer in the body and than from pills

Vitamin D and its importance has always been a topic of discussion. Vitamin D is involved in several major biological functions in the body. The best part is this essential vitamin is majorly synthesized in the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight and many people are not aware of how to get the right

sun exposure

so that vitamin D is maintained in the body.

Dr. Sayajirao Gaikwad, Homeopathy doctor has recently posted on social media about how to maximise vitamin D levels in the body.
The doctor recommends sun exposure between 11 am to 2pm for maximum vitamin D synthesis.
“The photo conversion of 7-DHC to previtamin D3 and its photoproducts is maximal between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. throughout the year. Therefore we as humans can get vitamin D from abundant sunshine,” he posted on X.

“Exposure of an adult in a bathing suit to an amount of sunlight that causes a slight pinkness to the skin (1 MED, known as a minimal erythemal dose) is equivalent to ingesting approximately 20,000 IU of vitamin D. Thus exposure of arms (18% body surface) to sunlight between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for an amount of time to cause an MED would be equivalent to ingesting about 3600 IU vitamin D. Since the vitamin D produced in the skin lasts two times longer in the body, casual exposure to an amount of sunlight that is equivalent to 0.5 MED of arms and legs, three times a week can provide adequate amount of vitamin D. The amount of time it takes to get 0.5 MED between 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. depends on skin pigmentation, latitude, etc.,” he explains.

Precautions to follow
Getting sunlight is a natural way to boost your vitamin D levels, but it’s important to take precautions to protect your skin and overall health. Here are some guidelines:
Spend only about 10-30 minutes in the sun, depending on your skin type and UV intensity. This helps you produce enough vitamin D without increasing the risk of sunburn.
Aim for exposure when the sun’s rays are strongest for

vitamin D synthesis

, but also be cautious as UV radiation is more intense during these hours.
Cover delicate areas like your face with sunscreen, hats, or clothing to prevent premature aging and skin damage while exposing arms and legs.
Never stay in the sun long enough to cause skin redness or burns, as overexposure increases the risk of skin cancer.
Darker skin tones need longer exposure to produce vitamin D, while lighter skin requires less time. UV intensity varies with latitude, altitude, and season.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and apply moisturizer after sun exposure to keep your skin healthy.