vitamin d

Vitamin D – Myth vs Fact

Vitamin D is essential for bodily functions. One of the ways our bodies get vitamin D is from exposure to the sun, but experts warn that this is no excuse for unprotected exposure or prolonged sunbathing.

Myth 1 – Sunbathing is the Best Way to Get Vitamin D

Dr Ross Perry, founder of Cosmedics Skin Clinics and Skin Surgery Laser Clinic, says:

“Sun exposure is the best way to maintain our vitamin D levels.

“However, it does not need to be sunburn or a tan but simple exposure of arms and legs 2-3 times a week for 15-20 mins will suffice.”

This equates to at most an hour a week of sun exposure, which is not much. It is not good to deliberately expose unprotected skin to sunlight in a bid to boost vitamin D levels. ‘Topping up my vitamin D’ should not be an excuse for excessive sunbathing even in jest.

Myth 2 – Vitamin D Doesn’t Come From Food

Actually, there are some foods that contain vitamin D. The top ones are:

  • Oily fish (e.g. salmon, tuna, mackerel)
  • Cow’s liver
  • Cheese
  • Egg yolks

In addition, some foods are have added vitamin D e.g. certain cereals, dairy products, juice drinks, fortified milk. Check the labelling of your food products and you may be surprised.

Myth 3 – Vitamin D’s Not That Important

Actually Vitamin D is really important, particularly in helping the body to absorb calcium which is vital to good bones.  However, the more common side-effects of vitamin D deficiency are feeling tired and rundown.

Myth 4 – Sunscreen Stops me Getting Vitamin D

It is possible for the body to synthesise vitamin D while wearing sunscreen, so there’s no excuse to risk sun damage and skin cancer. Always use sun protection when outdoors.

Myth 5 – The Sun Is the Cure for Vitamin D Deficiency

True vitamin D deficiency should be treated with supplements, which deliver a much higher dose than the sun could achieve. If you think  you have vitamin D deficiency, it’s best to see a doctor for a blood test. If your vitamin D is low, a course of prescription-strength vitamin D supplements will make a difference very quickly.

Risks of Sun Exposure

Exposure of unprotected skin to the sun and therefore UV light is linked to an increased likelihood of skin skin cancer. It is simply not worth the risk.

Skin Surgery Laser Clinics

Cosmedics’ Skin Surgery Laser Clinic offer private mole removal at a selection of clinics based in London and Bristol with trained doctors and surgeons. Our team of qualified and experienced doctors and surgeons also treat sebaceous cysts, skin tags, warts and lipoma using  freezing, laser or surgical techniques.

For more information or to book a consultation, please complete the form on this web page or call 020 7386 0464.