Most Older and Darker-Skinned Adults in Northern Britain Are Low on Vitamin D, Even in Summer
Based on: Circannual prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency in older and minoritized ethnic adults in Northern Britain: screening outcomes from a clinical trial (ISRCTN13778806).
Researchers screened older adults and people with darker skin tones in northern Britain for vitamin D levels across the year. More than half of older adults and over 70% of ethnic minority adults had insufficient or deficient vitamin D. Summer sunshine did not fix the problem. Sun exposure alone seems to fall short for these groups at higher latitudes.
Key Insight
This study suggests sunlight alone may not maintain vitamin D levels in older or darker-skinned adults at northern latitudes.
Original Paper
Goddard A, Watson A, Tilbury R, Corfe BM, Fairley A
Conflict of Interest Disclosure: Study funded by supplement company BetterYou, though the company was not involved in design or analysis.
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Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.