Private MD News

Get vitamin D from food, not the sun, say dermatologists

Category: Vitamin D Deficiency-Diagnosis and Treatment

The American Academy of Dermatologists recommends that people get their daily allowance of vitamin D from dietary sources and not from unprotected exposure to the sun, which is a known cancer risk.

Issuing an updated position statement in response to a review of the most recent scientific literature, the academy acknowledges that vitamin D insufficiency may result from proper use of solar protection such as daily use of sunscreen and always wearing clothing that protects from the sun's rays.

"The updated recommendation for individuals who practice daily sun protection acknowledges that while protecting the skin from the damaging rays of the sun is important, so is maintaining adequate vitamin D levels," said dermatologist Dr David M. Pariser, president of the American Academy of Dermatology. "Concern about vitamin D should not lead people to forego sun protection, but rather prompt a conversation with their physician about how to ensure adequate and safe vitamin D intake while guarding against skin cancer."

Vitamin D testing can determine whether or not someone has sufficient amount of the nutrient in the body. Low levels have been linked to diverse health problems such as cancer and heart disease.