Is there an issue with taking Vitamin D supplements? And why do we need to? Recent studies show evidence that Vitamin D may help with a variety of health issues, including muscle pain and mood disorders, bone density, diabetes, and so on.
What is a good dose of Vitamin D? The United States government has set a criteria, measured in International Units (IUs). A person up to the age of fifty should be getting two hundred IUs per day. A person up to age seventy should be getting four hundred. And a person age seventy and older should be getting six hundred IUs per day. Recent studies, however, show that these numbers may be too low.
Vitamin D Supplement
Summertime is the perfect time for the body to stock up on Vitamin D, and one of the best ways to get Vitamin D is from the sun because this nutrient is contained in the sun's UVB rays. When UVB rays hit the body's skin, a reaction occurs that enables skin cells to produce Vitamin D. Based on expert advice, this would mean a fair-skinned person can go outside for ten minutes without sunscreen and bask in the sunlight, and this will give her plenty of Vitamin D.
However, if a person worries about sun exposure, supplements are available. But there are some issues with taking supplements. If Vitamin D is consumed in excess, it can build up in the body, which can cause toxic symptoms (a safe limit is two thousand IUs for adults). Be aware that this buildup process can occur slowly, and a toxic level may not occur for months or years.
One may choose to go out in the sun with sunscreen protection. If so, you can choose to use a sunscreen that blocks UVA rays (however keep in mind you want to absorb UVB rays by allowing your skin to tan). Most, if not all, chemical sunscreen will not do this, as they are generally made to block out all of the sun's UVA and UVB rays. A safe bet is an organic sunscreen that allows UVB absorption. But take caution, not all organic sunscreens are made the same. Some organic sunscreens have chemicals in them, even though they state they are all-natural and organic. A great organic sunscreen will not include any kind of chemicals, and it will block UVA rays while allowing for absorption of UVB rays.
There is a lot more to know about how to enjoy the sun safely. Take a step and educate yourself so that you can protect yourself, and your family.