Can You Absorb Vitamin D Through Clothing?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that you can get from foods or sunlight. It is essential for your bones and teeth health and plays a role in your immune system, calcium absorption and hormone production.
So, can you absorb vitamin D through clothing? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Sunlight needs to reach your skin in order to synthesize vitamin D within your body. The amount of sunlight needed depends on various factors, including size, age, and skin pigmentation.
Clothing Blocks the Sun
Clothing acts as a sunblock and prevents your body from absorbing the necessary ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun’s rays in order to synthesize vitamin D. UV radiation does not penetrate fabrics like cotton, denim, and linen, creating a physical block.
Get Vitamin D Through Other Ways
In places with prolonged cold weather, you may need extra vitamin D in order to keep your bones and teeth strong and healthy. While you can’t absorb Vitamin D through clothing, there are other ways to get your daily dose:
- Diet: Eating fatty fish, such as salmon, herring, and mackerel, is a great source of vitamin D as well as eggs, cheese and foods fortified with vitamin D.
- Supplements: If you don’t get enough vitamin D from your diet, you may need to take a supplement. Talk to your doctor to find out the best option for you.
Sunlight is a great source of vitamin D. While you can’t absorb it through clothing, there are other ways to get your daily dose. Eating the right foods and adding a vitamin D supplement can help you stay healthy and strong.