Vitamin D Light side and best time of sunshine in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Low levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D have been documented among inhabitants of the wider Middle East and North African countries. Sunlight has long been recognized as a major provider of vitamin D. In this study we aimed to determine the optimum time for sun exposure in the Central region of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Ampoules containing 7-dehydrocholesterol in ethanol were exposed to sunlight every hour starting from sunrise until sunset in July and December. Our results demonstrated that the time of the day has a major influence in vitamin D production. In this study, summer production of previtamin D 3 was observed to occur between 8: 00 PM to 4: 00 PM with peak hours between 10: 00 AM to 12: 00 PM. During wintertime however, the conversion began later at around 9: 30 AM and ended sooner at 2: 00 PM, with peak hours at 10: 00 AM to 12: 00 PM. In conclusion, the optimum time to get sun exposure for vitamin D 3 production in Riyadh, during summer is from 9: 00 AM and before 10: 30 AM, as well as after 2: 00 PM until 3: 00 PM, while during winter it's from 10: 00 AM until 2: 00 PM. These times are important on a public health perspective, as it's free, relatively safe and the most enjoyable. This strategy is a highly efficacious way for improving the vitamin D status for children and adults and preventing vitamin D deficiency.