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Will Vitamin D deficiency be cured by 10 minutes of sunlight every day? Know how much sun exposure is necessary

Samira Vishwas | July 22, 2026 11:25 AM CST

Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D is a very important nutrient for the body, which plays an important role in keeping bones strong, better functioning of muscles and supporting the immune system. But today, due to staying inside the house or office for a long time, habit of avoiding sunlight and changing lifestyle, a large number of people are facing Vitamin D deficiency. In such a situation, the question often arises whether sitting in the sun for just 10 minutes every day is enough to fulfill the needs of the body?

The answer to this is not the same for every person. Several factors determine how much vitamin D the body will be able to make, including one’s age, skin color, place of residence, season, exposure to sunlight, and how much of the body is exposed to sunlight. Let us know when 10 minutes of sunlight may be enough and which people may need extra caution or doctor’s advice.

Is 10 minutes of sunlight enough?

According to experts, 10-15 minutes of sunlight daily may be sufficient for some people, but this does not apply to everyone. If the sunlight is mild, very little of the body is exposed or the person has dark skin, it may take longer for vitamin D to be produced. Therefore, not only the time, but also the quality and exposure of the body to sunlight is important.

Which time of sunshine is considered more beneficial?

Generally, UVB rays are more effective in the late morning and before noon sunlight, which helps in the formation of Vitamin D in the skin. However, prolonged exposure to bright sunlight can also pose a risk of sunburn. Therefore, it is considered better to take sunlight for a balanced period and avoid excessive exposure.

Which people are at greater risk of vitamin D deficiency?

People who stay inside home or office most of the time.
Elderly people, whose skin produces less vitamin D.
Vitamin D may take longer to be produced in people with darker skin.
People wearing clothes that cover their body completely.
People suffering from obesity, some liver or kidney diseases.

Not only sunlight, food is also important

If the body is deficient in Vitamin D, relying only on sunlight may not be enough. Egg yolks, fatty fish (such as salmon and sardines), fortified milk, yogurt and some fortified cereals can be included in the diet. In many cases, doctors may also prescribe vitamin D supplements, which should not be taken without consultation.

How is deficiency detected?

Feeling tired frequently, pain in bones or muscles, weakness and falling ill frequently can be possible signs of vitamin D deficiency. However, there can be many other reasons for these symptoms. To know the exact condition, 25-hydroxy vitamin D blood test is done and on the basis of that the doctor decides the treatment.