In addition to limited sun exposure, there are other factors that affect our body's vitamin D levels.

Obesity

Being overweight, or having a Body Mass Index (BMI) > 30, has been associated with low levels of vitamin D.

Aging

People over 50 will see a reduced efficiency of vitamin D production in the skin. In addition, older people may spend less time outdoors, reducing the vitamin D they get from sun exposure.

Latitude

Latitudes above 42 degrees N (roughly, a line stemming from Los Angeles to northern South Carolina) do not allow for sufficient production of vitamin D throughout the year.

Season

In the summer, when the weather is warmer and the days are longer, people spend more time outside and are exposed to more sunlight. Conversely, in the winter, people tend to be outdoors less and the sun's rays are also weaker.

Skin Pigmentation

Melanin (your skin's pigment) reduces the ability to produce vitamin D in our skin. So, people with darker skin tend to have lower levels of vitamin D.

Sunscreen Use

SPF 8 or higher blocks the UV rays that help our skin generate vitamin D. However, experts agree that sunscreen should still be used and vitamin D intake should be supplemented from other sources, like foods such as eggs, dairy products and fatty fish, and supplements like VIACTIV® Calcium Soft Chews.

Other Risk Factors

Wearing long clothes that cover the body and/or head coverings
Being homebound
Certain health conditions that may prevent the absorption of vitamin D.

Supplement Your Vitamin D Intake with VIACTIV® Calcium Soft Chews

VIACTIV® Calcium Soft Chews are a delicious and convenient way to help get the recommended daily amount of vitamin D and calcium we need.