Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Vitamin D is a hormone that controls calcium levels in the blood. It is needed for strong bones, muscles and overall health.
  • The sun’s ultraviolet radiation (UV) is the main cause of skin cancer and the best natural source of vitamin D. There is a balance between the risk of skin cancer from too much sun exposure and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels.
  • Vitamin D levels change naturally with the seasons. The amount of UV exposure you need depends on the time of year, UV levels, your skin type and existing vitamin D levels.
  • Being physically active outdoors will help your body to produce vitamin D.
  • The body can only absorb a limited amount of vitamin D at a time. Spending extra time in the sun won’t increase vitamin D levels – but will increase your risk of skin cancer.
  • Some people are at increased risk of low vitamin D – this includes people with naturally very dark skin and people who have very low exposure to sunlight.

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 11-08-2022