For most Australians, the main source of vitamin D is from exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D is produced when our skin is exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) light from the sun. The amount of sun exposure required to produce adequate levels of vitamin D is relatively low.
Many of our seniors are placed on vitamin D replacement in form of a little pill or three, and some have a Vitamin D 'shot' In saying that, you don't have to be old to be Vitamin D deficiant.
Groups at risk of vitamin D deficiency
- elderly and housebound or in residential care
- naturally dark skinned (darker skin reduces the penetration of UV light)
- affected by other medical conditions that can impact on your ability to absorb / process vitamin D
- babies of vitamin D deficient mothers
