Being SunSmart: a healthy balance
It's now time to get some winter sun for vitamin D. Vitamin D helps to develop and maintain healthy bones and UV radiation from the sun is one of the best sources for vitamin D.
UV levels are generally low (below 3) in Victoria from May to August so sun protection isn’t needed unless you are in alpine areas or near highly reflective surfaces such as snow or water.
To get enough sun over the winter months, expose your face, arms and hands (or equivalent area of skin) to the sun for two to three hours over the week. Adults and children with naturally very dark skin may need three to six times this level of exposure.
Vitamin D deficiency is a risk for people with naturally very dark skin, babies and infants of vitamin D deficient mothers, especially breastfed babies, people who cover their skin for religious or cultural reasons, patients with osteoporosis, older Victorians and people who are housebound or in institutional care.
If in doubt, visit your doctor; vitamin D levels can be checked through a blood test. Supplements may be required for inadequate levels. You should not try to boost your vitamin D levels at any time of the year through excessive UV exposure or through using solariums.
For more information on sun protection and vitamin D including the brochure How much sun is enough? Getting the balance right go to www.sunsmart.com.au.
