Vitamin D irradiance in summer shade and sun

Abstract

Past research has shown that certain shaded environments (e.g. shade umbrellas, gazebos, patios) can be used to obtain the necessary levels of UV exposure for the synthesis of vitamin D. This paper discusses the levels of solar ultraviolet radiation during summer at specific mid latitudes in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres and how this relates to the physiologic production of vitamin D in the human body. Specifically, the sites of London (UK) and Hobart (Australia) are utilised. It was found that in summer at these mid latitudes vitamin D synthesis could be initiated in as little as 2 minutes in full sun and 6 minutes when in the shade.