While it's true that summer is the best time to top up our natural Vitamin D3 intake, not everyone can get enough Vitamin D3 during the warmer months of the year due to a number of reasons. This is why it’s recommended to take Vitamin D3 supplements all year round, not just during the sun-filled season.
Understanding Vitamin D3
When we’re exposed to the sun's UVB rays, our skin's cholesterol undergoes a series of chemical reactions which is eventually converted to Vitamin D3, the highly active form of Vitamin D.
This fat-soluble vitamin primarily aids in the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, supporting the development and maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. This vitamin also contributes to various other vital functions within the body including our immune system regulation and muscle function.
Why do we need Vitamin D3 supplements even in the summer?
Limited Sun Exposure: Although summer does allow for more time outdoors, many people have busy schedules that restrict their sun exposure. Factors such as long work hours, clothing choices, and where we live can limit the time we spend in direct sunlight.
Sunscreen Protection: Applying sunscreen is essential to protect our skin from harmful UV radiation and reduce the risk of skin cancer. However, sunscreen with a high sun protection factor (SPF) significantly decreases Vitamin D synthesis. So although we're able to keep our skin safe in the summer with suncream, it's not necessarily able to synthesise as much Vitamin D3 as you'd think.
Indoor Lifestyles: Even during summer, many of us spend a lot of time indoors, whether at work, school, home or in air-conditioned and shaded environments.
Skin Tone: The amount of melatonin (the pigment which determines skin, hair and eye colour) affects the skin’s ability to produce Vitamin D. People with dark skin tones have higher melatonin levels which act as a natural sunblock and require more prolonged sun exposure to obtain ideal levels of Vitamin D3.
Age: As we age, our skin becomes thinner which can result in a reduced response to sunlight, while certain chronic illnesses associated with ageing can also have an impact on Vitamin D absorption and metabolism.
Vitamin D Deficiency: It is estimated that around 1 billion people worldwide are deficient in Vitamin D. A deficiency in Vitamin D can lead to a range of health issues, including weakened bones (osteoporosis), increased susceptibility to infections, fatigue, depression and impaired immune function. By supplementing Vitamin D3 all year round, you can ensure that you’re minimising the risk of deficiency-related problems.
Keep Your Body Thriving With NothingFishy
In summary, sun exposure alone even in summer isn’t sufficient enough for everyone. By adding NothingFishy Algae Vitamin D3 supplements to your daily routine, you can maintain optimal levels throughout the whole year to support your bones, teeth and muscles as well as your immune system.
Our plant-based Vitamin D3 supplements come from sustainably sourced algae oil with 1000 IU in every softgel, allowing you to take it flexibly depending on your needs and lifestyle. We recommend taking 1000 IU (one softgel) per day in the summer and 2000 IU (two softgels) per day in the winter.
If you are still unsure, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs, as your individual requirements may vary. You can also get your Vitamin D levels regularly monitored at your GP surgery or local hospital to ensure that you’re maintaining a healthy balance.