Mistake number 1 that prevents you from getting vitamin D in the summer (and replenishing your reserves for the winter)

vitamins They are necessary for the proper functioning and development of body cells. They are mainly obtained from food by eating certain foods. However, there is one that, although present in some foods, is not usually obtained primarily through them.

He body synthesizes vitamin D mainly through solar exposure. A note that at first might lead us to think that at this time of year, when the days tend to lengthen due to more hours of sunshine, the synthesis of this will be increased. However, as is often the case, everything is not as it seems, and that would be wrong.

A must-have sunscreen for summer

It is recommended to use sun protection throughout the year, but only with the onset of the summer season, when creams or lotions with high protection factors they become required product in the bags or backpacks of the vast majority. And it is its use that prevents interaction of the skin with the sun’s rays. Obviously this is necessary to avoid spots or sunburn, which is why doctors insist on using sun protection, especially in summer, since the radiation is much higher; but it is also true that it can slow down or reduce vitamin D synthesis.

A reality that may even cause a certain deficiency of the specified vitamin. In fact, vitamin D deficiency is becoming an increasingly common problem in the population throughout the year. One of the main reasons is that we spend We spend too much time locked in buildings when the sun doesn’t shine on us.. And then summer comes and we apply cream so that not even a ray of sun penetrates.

This is why consumption vitamin D supplementsalthough we must not forget that taking these supplements without first consulting a doctor can cause the opposite: excess vitamin D, causing, among other symptoms, abdominal pain or a greater tendency to dehydration.

How does wearing sunscreen affect vitamin D synthesis?

There is considerable debate as to whether the application creams or sunscreens with SPF whether they affect the synthesis of vitamin D. However, as the PCU clarifies, “frequent and strict use of sunscreens, usually recommended to protect us from skin cancer, also blocks vitamin synthesis” This doesn’t mean it’s best to tan without protection, because the only thing you’ll do is burn your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer.

Although it is true that, according to various studies, with sunbathe for a few minutes a day, the body is able to synthesize sufficient amounts of vitamin D, but just a few minutes can contribute to the appearance of blemishes on the skin. Additionally, we must remember that there is no 100% protection factor.

This means that although they reduce the likelihood of getting burned by adapting to skin type and color, different products Sun protection they can’t block Full UV rays ensure that the body continues to synthesize vitamin D even when protected by sunscreen.

Now, even if the cream does not protect us one hundred percent, if we use very high protection and constantly renew it every time we go outside in the summer, the amount of vitamin D synthesized under the influence of the sun will not be enough. That’s why experts recommend 10 to 15 minutes of sun exposure in the early morning or late afternoon during the summer. when it’s still sunny, but it’s no longer burning, and without sunscreen. This will be enough to increase vitamin D reserves.

Vitamin D: What it does and why it is so important for the body

Although a large portion of the population is deficient in vitamin D, it is involved in many body functions. Most notably, he is responsible for regulate the absorption of calcium and phosphorus the body by improving the immune system. An action that increases protection by reducing the likelihood of contracting an infection, among other interactions and actions.

flaw or low levels of this important vitamin for the body cause body HE feel more tiredweak and increase risk crack in the bone.

For this reason, it is very important that with healthy sun exposure and a diet that includes foods rich in it (whole milk, sardines, eggs) provide the necessary vitamin D.