Vitamin D important for fair-skinned people

The news about vitamin D just keeps coming! While it’s well known that individuals with darker skin don’t absorb as much vitamin D from the sunlight, it turns out that those will very fair skin aren’t off the hook either according to a recent study. The UK study reported that very pale individuals have sub-optimal vitamin D levels, even after sun exposure. The researchers found that it was extremely difficult for these individuals to obtain sufficient vitamin D levels while also avoiding sunburns, without relying on vitamin D supplements. It may take as many as six hours in the sun per day over the weekends to achieve optimal vitamin D levels. Moreover, even in those who supplemented with vitamin D and had sun exposure, there was little evidence of vitamin D levels that were too high. Interestingly, ongoing occupational exposure to the sun resulted in protection from melanoma (skin cancer), while sunburns on sunny vacations led to an increased risk of melanoma. The study also reported that older adults, as well as obese individuals, are shown to have lower levels of vitamin D. Vitamin D supports healthy bones, plays a role in immunity, and can boost mood. It may also help to prevent certain types of cancers. Find vitamin D supplements at your local health food store.