Article For Patients

This video is made in Thai language, subtitles/cc may be applied. 

Sun Exposure a day enough to get enough Vitamin D

Assoc. Prof. Pol. Lt. Thongchai Sundharapha, MD

This video discusses the importance of vitamin D and how to get it, especially from sunlight.

The key takeaways are:

  • Is 30 minutes of vitamin D a day enough? 30 minutes of sunlight a day may be enough to make vitamin D in the body, but there are many factors that affect vitamin D absorption, such as the amount of time you are exposed to sunlight, the amount of skin exposed to sunlight, and your skin color.* Other sources of vitamin D: In addition to sunlight, you can get vitamin D from foods such as salmon, canned fish, shiitake mushrooms, and dietary supplements.
  • Recommended Vitamin D Amount: The Osteoporosis Foundation of Thailand recommends getting about 800-2,000 units of vitamin D3 per day and about 20,000 units of vitamin D2 per week.
  • Vitamin D Deficiency Problems: Even in countries with lots of sunlight, such as the Middle East, vitamin D deficiency is high due to lifestyle habits, such as wearing clothing that covers the body.
  • Vitamin D Testing: Testing your blood vitamin D levels is the best way to assess whether you are getting enough vitamin D. However, testing can be difficult and expensive.
  • Vitamin D Supplements: If you can’t get enough vitamin D from sunlight, taking a vitamin D supplement is a good option.

This video emphasizes that getting enough vitamin D is important for your health, especially bone health. People who are at risk of vitamin D deficiency, such as older adults, people who don’t get out outdoors often, or people who live in areas with low sunlight, should consult their doctor for advice on vitamin D supplementation.

Remember: Too much sun exposure can be harmful to your skin. Choose the right times to go out in the sun, and wear sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays.

The Metabolic Bone Disease Subspecialty
The Royal College Of Orthopaedic Surgeons Of Thailand
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