I am aware that vitamin D is naturally produced by the body in response to sunlight exposure. However, it is very difficult to find precise or even approximate amounts produced daily, since the majority of people get enough sun exposure to meet their bodies' needs, not to mention the fact that different amounts are produced by people with different skin types. Does anyone know the approximate amount of vitamin D produced daily by the body of a person of caucasian skin color from a moderate amount of sun exposure?

Senior Moments

Vitamin D plays a major role in calcium absorption and bone health. The relationship between calcium absorption and vitamin D is similar to that of a locked door and a key. Vitamin D is the key that unlocks the door and allows calcium to leave the intestine and enter the bloodstream. Vitamin D also works in the kidneys to help resorb calcium that otherwise would be excreted. Vitamin D is manufactured in the skin following direct exposure to sunlight. The amount of vitamin D produced in the skin varies depending on time of day, season, latitude and skin pigmentation. Usually 10-15 minutes exposure of hands, arms and face two to three times a week (depending on one's skin sensitivity) is enough to satisfy the body's vitamin D requirement. Use of sunscreen markedly diminishes the manufacture of vitamin D in the skin, as do window glass, clothing and air pollution. Skin color also affects vitamin D production; the fairer you are, the more you make. As adults age, the ability to make vitamin D through the skin decreases. People who are housebound and experience no sunlight exposure are unable to make vitamin D. The major food sources of vitamin D are vitamin D-fortified dairy products, egg yolks, saltwater fish and liver. Some calcium supplements and most multivitamins contain vitamin D, so it is important to check the labels to determine how much each contains. Experts recommend a daily intake of between 400 and 800 international units (IU). Do not take more than 800 IU per day unless your doctor prescribes it, since massive doses of vitamin D may be harmful. http://www.nof.org/prevention/calcium.htm Jul 14 03, 6:52 AM

SOTHC

163 IU per square centimeter in light skin per day and 69 IU per square centimeter in dark skin per day. http://www.danddhealth.com/vitamin-d.htm Jul 14 03, 7:00 AM