Mackarey Urges 20 Minutes of Sun 3 Times Weekly to Prevent Vitamin D Deficiency
Updated
Updated · Scranton Times-Tribune · Aug 9
Mackarey Urges 20 Minutes of Sun 3 Times Weekly to Prevent Vitamin D Deficiency
1 articles · Updated · Scranton Times-Tribune · Aug 9
Summary
Paul J. Mackarey said limited but regular sunlight can help prevent vitamin D deficiency, recommending face-and-hand exposure for 20 minutes three times a week.
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and maintain strong bones and teeth; deficiency can cause rickets in children, osteomalacia in adults and raise osteoporosis risk in older people.
Age-based adequate intake rises from 200 IU for adults 19-50 to 400 IU for ages 51-69 and 600 IU for those 70 and older, while fortified milk provides about 98 IU per cup.
Older adults, homebound people, those in northern latitudes and patients with malabsorption or kidney problems may need supplements because sunscreen, indoor living and illness can sharply limit vitamin D production.