In the article “The Exact Best Time of Day To Get Vitamin D From the Sun,” Dr. Nicholas Church, MD—a family medicine physician and founder of Somerset Medical—shares expert insight into the importance of vitamin D and how to safely and effectively get enough of it. He emphasizes the foundational role this nutrient plays in supporting overall health, especially as we age.
“Vitamin D is one of those nutrients that quietly supports so many systems in the body, including bone strength, muscle function and immune response,” says Dr. Church. “As we get older, those things only become more important. Without enough vitamin D, we can’t absorb calcium properly, which puts us at higher risk for osteoporosis and fractures.” His comment highlights how a simple nutrient, often overlooked, can have cascading effects on everything from mobility to immunity.
Understanding whether you’re getting enough vitamin D isn’t always straightforward. According to Dr. Church, the most reliable method is to get bloodwork done by your primary care provider. This is particularly important for people in higher-risk groups—those with darker skin, limited exposure to sunlight, or digestive issues. Vitamin D deficiency is often linked with malabsorption, so anyone experiencing digestive challenges may be more susceptible to low levels.
Dr. Church also notes that certain physical symptoms could signal a deficiency. “If you are experiencing fatigue, bone or joint pain or getting sick more often than usual,” he explains, “these can all be signs of a vitamin D deficiency, so you should be sure to get your levels checked.” In other words, low vitamin D levels may not just be a quiet background issue—they can manifest in real, noticeable ways that interfere with daily life.
When it comes to optimizing your time in the sun for natural vitamin D production, Dr. Church provides guidance rooted in practicality and safety. While some experts suggest morning light is helpful for circadian rhythms and safe exposure, Dr. Church clarifies that the window between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. is actually the most effective for vitamin D synthesis. “It’s when the sun’s rays are the strongest,” he says, “which makes it the most effective time for your body to produce vitamin D.” However, he’s quick to add an important caveat: only a few minutes of exposure during this peak period are needed. This balance of maximizing benefit while minimizing risk is essential, particularly for individuals concerned about sun damage or skin cancer.
Throughout the article, Dr. Church emphasizes a proactive and balanced approach: recognize the signs, seek testing when in doubt, and use sun exposure wisely. His advice underscores the broader role of primary care—not just in treating illness but in helping patients understand and meet their ongoing health needs. His quotes serve as a reminder that with a little awareness and a few smart habits, it’s entirely possible to support your vitamin D levels safely and effectively.
