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The Effect of Sunlight Exposure on Vitamin D Status in Countries of Low and High Latitudes: A Systematic Literature Review

  • Public Health Nutrition (KE Charlton, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of the Review

To conduct a systematic review of studies to investigate the association between climate and vitamin D in humans.

Recent Findings

There is growing interest in the association between the environment and vitamin D, but robust methods to understand this relationship are lacking. Studies focus mainly on seasonality and latitude. Research quantifying sunlight exposure necessary for adequate vitamin D synthesis in people with darker skin color and those people living at low latitudes are scarce, as are studies in urban populations that may have limited opportunity for sunlight exposure.

Summary

There are gaps regarding values and timing of exposure to UV radiation required for adequate vitamin D synthesis considering skin color, geography, climate, and local irradiation. Nature-based solutions (NbS) that can mitigate climate change will become increasingly important for preventing hypovitaminosis D. For example, tree-shaded spaces might encourage more participation in outside activities and thereby favor vitamin D synthesis by the skin.

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Papers of particular interest, published recently, have been highlighted as: • Of importance •• Of major importance

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Environmental Health, PhD Global Health and Sustainability Program, School of Public Health, University of São Paulo, Av. Dr. Arnaldo, 715-Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP, 01246-904, Brasil

    Sofia Lizarralde Oliver, Keila Valente Santana & Helena Ribeiro

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  1. Sofia Lizarralde Oliver
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Correspondence to Helena Ribeiro.

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Oliver, S.L., Santana, K.V. & Ribeiro, H. The Effect of Sunlight Exposure on Vitamin D Status in Countries of Low and High Latitudes: A Systematic Literature Review. Curr Nutr Rep 12, 1–13 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13668-022-00443-y

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