The National Osteoporosis Society has launched its fifth Sunlight Campaign to remind people to get outside in the sun for a few minutes every day between May and September to keep their vitamin D levels topped up.
A survey carried out by the society has revealed that more people than before – 62 per cent – now know that sunlight is the best source of vitamin D.
But there are still too many who mistakenly believe that it is necessary to wear sunscreen to obtain vitamin D – which the society says unwittingly puts them at risk of deficiency and unhealthy bones.
The National Osteoporosis Society points out that while they are correct that sunscreen is needed to protect the skin, it is important to allow a few minutes of sunlight to make vitamin D – taking care not to burn if you have sensitive skin.
Dr Helen Macdonald, the chair of the National Osteoporosis Society’s Nutrition and Lifestyle Forum said: “Vitamin D has been long known to improve bone health, by helping our bodies process calcium effectively – it is essential for bone and muscle health as it promotes calcium absorption from our food. Our bones need the added mineral to make them strong and supportive; and vitamin D may play an important role in muscle function. We are encouraged by these survey results, but clearly there is a long way to go in improving awareness of vitamin D.”
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