From October to March, many Dutch people don't get out enough. While it is important to go outside for the production of vitamin D.
What about vitamin D and sunlight?
Going outside is not only nice, it is also important for the production of vitamin D. 70 to 90 percent of the total vitamin D production in our body is produced by our skin under the influence of sunlight.
Why do we not go out enough?
We would like to go outside more, but due to lack of time and the cold we don't do it. 17 percent simply forget to go outside.
How much do you need to be outside?
The Health Council advises to be outside for 15 to 30 minutes every day between 11 am and 3 pm. Your head and hands must be bare so that your skin can absorb enough sunlight.
Tips to get outside more Getting outside is a healthy habit, as is exercising, eating breakfast, and drinking plenty of water. Try to get yourself used to going outside regularly during the day. Take a walk during your lunch break or go to the supermarket.
What are the consequences of a vitamin D deficiency?
The consequences of a vitamin D deficiency are not immediately noticeable, but therefore have no less impact. Vitamin D is important for strong bones and healthy muscles. A deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, fractures and loss of mobility. In elderly people with a severe vitamin D deficiency, osteoporosis and soft, weak and painful bones are also often found. In children, a severe vitamin D deficiency can also cause English disease (rickets). Weak, crooked bones and bow-legs are signs of this.
