Vitamin D deficiency is shockingly common among religious Jews, even in sunny climates like Israel. Discover why it’s happening, how it affects your health, and what you can do to fix it—naturally and safely.
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A Communal Problem
At my last doctor’s visit, a routine blood test revealed something surprising: my vitamin D levels were low. When I mentioned this to my chavrusa, he casually admitted he had the same issue. That got me thinking. How common is this?
A little research confirmed my suspicion. Even in sunny Israel, studies show that many Jewish men and women are vitamin D deficient. The reason? Our lifestyle. We spend a lot of time indoors, whether in the beis midrash, at work, or at home. On top of that, our modest dress limits direct sun exposure.1
With summer just around the corner, this is the perfect time to take advantage of the sun’s benefits in a safe way. In this article, we’ll explore how to get enough sun exposure without the risks, how to use sunlight wisely, and how to protect your skin while supporting your health. It’s time to reconnect with sunshine in a thoughtful, balanced way.
The Power of the Sun
Sunshine is more than just something pleasant or relaxing. It plays a vital role in your health, especially when it comes to vitamin D. When UVB rays from the sun reach your skin, they trigger a chemical reaction that transforms a compound in your body into vitamin D3 (incredible!). From there, your liver and kidneys convert it into the active form your body uses.
Vitamin D supports bone strength, a healthy immune system, and can even influence mood and energy levels. When levels are too low, it can lead to fatigue, weakened immunity, and problems with bone health. What’s amazing is how much of an impact just a little time in the sun can have!
For people with lighter skin tones, about 10 to 30 minutes of midday sun a few times a week is usually enough. Those with darker skin often need more time because melanin naturally filters out some of the UVB rays. Other factors like clothing, sunscreen, cloud cover, pollution, and the season all influence how much vitamin D your body can make. The key is to find a healthy balance.2 3
Note: Yes, you can get vitamin D from certain foods and supplements, and in some cases, that’s necessary. But this article focuses on the most natural source we have: sunlight!
The Danger of the Sun
Sunlight has clear benefits, but it also comes with some real risks. The sun gives off three types of ultraviolet rays: UVA, UVB, and UVC. UVC rays are filtered out by Hashem’s incredible atmosphere. UVA and UVB, however, reach your skin and can cause long-term damage.
UVB rays are what cause sunburns and contribute to skin cancer. UVA rays penetrate deeper into the skin and speed up aging, leading to wrinkles, dark spots, and sagging. That sun-kissed tan people often admire is actually your skin’s way of sounding the alarm. When UV rays hit, the body produces melanin to absorb and limit damage. But melanin can only help so much. Once the protection runs out, the skin begins to suffer real harm that builds over time.
This does not mean we should avoid the sun completely. It means we need to use it in a smarter way. Like many things in health, the right amount at the right time can make all the difference.4
Smart Sun Habits
So how do we enjoy the benefits of sunlight while avoiding the risks? The answer starts with intention. Aim to get sun exposure around midday, when UVB rays are strongest. That is the best window for vitamin D production. A short walk, sitting on a porch, or standing by an open window can all work well. The more skin that is exposed, the more vitamin D your body can produce.
After getting the exposure you need, it’s important to protect your skin. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 on areas that remain uncovered. Hats with brims, sunglasses, and finding shade during longer outdoor stays are also smart ways to stay safe. The goal is not to avoid sunlight. The goal is to approach it thoughtfully.
This is not about chasing a tan or spending hours outside. It is about reconnecting with one of the simplest natural tools Hashem gave us for health and vitality. When used with care, it can be both powerful and safe.
From Awareness to Action
When my own test results came back low, it felt like a personal issue. But the more I looked into it, the clearer it became that this is something many of us face. Whether we are in yeshiva, working indoors, or simply caught in daily routines, we may not be getting what we need. This is not just an individual concern. It is a communal one.
As summer approaches, we have a real opportunity. A few mindful minutes in the sun each week, paired with basic skin protection, can go a long way. It is not about adding more to your plate. It is about small steps that bring real benefit. Taking a short walk after lunch, opening a window during the day, or sitting outside for a few minutes can make a meaningful difference.
Let’s take this season to bring the sunshine back into our lives. Not just for the warmth it brings but for the health, energy, and clarity it helps restore. With a little awareness and a lot of gratitude, we can enjoy the weather ahead in a way that supports both our body and Neshama.
The content provided in this article is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of your physician, registered dietitian, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health, nutrition, or fitness regimen.
The Essentials in 60 Seconds
Vitamin D deficiency is becoming increasingly common among frum Jews, even in sunny regions like Israel. This issue, though often overlooked, is deeply tied to lifestyle and community norms. Here’s what you need to know:
- Widespread Deficiency: Many frum men and women test low for vitamin D, largely due to indoor routines and modest clothing that limits direct sun exposure.
- Vital for Health: Vitamin D supports strong bones, a healthy immune system, and stable mood. Low levels can lead to fatigue, bone issues, and increased illness.
- How It Works: The body produces vitamin D when UVB rays from sunlight hit the skin. Liver and kidneys then convert it into its usable form.
- Safe Sun Habits: Midday sun exposure for 10–30 minutes, two or three times a week, can help.
- Protection Matters: After getting sun, apply SPF 30+ sunscreen to avoid damage. Hats, shade, and sunglasses offer added protection.
- A Communal Opportunity: This isn’t just a personal issue. It’s a chance for us to be more mindful of a natural, powerful health tool — the sun!
References:
- https://www.ima.org.il/filesupload/imaj/0/40/20233.pdf
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3897598/
- https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/ask-the-doctors-round-sun-exposure-vital-to-vitamin-d-production
- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/sun-safety
- To read more about healthy sun exposure click here
