Private MD News

Individuals need new methods of improving vitamin D levels

Category: Vitamin D Deficiency-Diagnosis and Treatment

It may pay off for individuals to protect themselves from the sun's rays, as this can help minimize the risk of skin cancer. But it can increase the chances of receiving a blood test indicating low levels of vitamin D, which could lead to numerous health risks.

Vitamin D is produced naturally in the skin following exposure to the sun's UV rays. However, these are the same rays from which individuals often protect themselves. The radiation can cause burns and increase cancer risk. For this reason, experts say individual must take steps to find other sources of vitamin D.

"“Vitamin D is essential to staying healthy and current research shows that most people aren’t getting enough from the sun," said Stuart Lowther, founder of Life Science Nutritionals. "Don’t risk damaging your skin just to get vitamin D. Use sunscreen and continue taking your daily vitamin D supplement."

In addition to taking nutritional supplements, individuals can safely boost their vitamin D levels by eating oily fish, mushrooms and fortified dairy products. These methods can help individuals improve their blood test scores without the risks of sun exposure.