Should You Take Vitamin D in Summer?

Vitamin D is often called the “sunshine vitamin,” and for good reason — our bodies naturally produce it when exposed to sunlight. So, it’s no surprise that many people assume they can stop taking their vitamin D supplements once summer rolls around.

But here’s the catch: even during the sunniest months, you might not be getting enough of it. Between long hours spent indoors, diligent sunscreen use, and individual factors like age or skin tone, many people still fall short — and that can affect everything from your bones to your immune system.

So, should you keep taking your vitamin D supplement in summer? Let’s take a closer look.

Why Is Vitamin D Important?

Vitamin D plays a critical role in several vital functions. It helps the body absorb calcium, which supports strong bones and teeth, and it contributes to immune system regulation, muscle function, and even mood balance.

Low levels have been linked to fatigue, weakened immunity, muscle aches, poor mood, and, in severe cases, rickets or osteoporosis. The form used in most supplements, vitamin D3, is the more active and bioavailable form and is the type used in Calm by Wellness’ Vegan Vitamin D Gummies.

Can You Get Enough Vitamin D from Sunlight?

In theory, yes. In practice, it’s complicated.

It is synthesized when UVB rays hit the skin, which is why sunlight is considered the most “natural” source. However, several factors limit how much vitamin D your body can make, even in summer:

1. Time Spent Outdoors

Many people work indoors, exercise inside, or avoid the sun due to heat or personal preference. Even with longer daylight hours, actual UV exposure may be minimal.

2. Sunscreen Use

Sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from sun damage, but it also blocks UVB rays, reducing the skin’s ability to produce vitamin D. That doesn’t mean you should stop using sunscreen — it means supplementation might still be necessary.

3. Geographic Location

People living in northern latitudes (above ~37 degrees north) may not get sufficient UVB rays even in the summer, depending on the angle of the sun.

4. Skin Tone

Melanin, the pigment that gives skin its color, naturally filters UV radiation. People with darker skin tones require more sun exposure to produce the same amount of vitamin D as those with lighter skin.

5. Age and Health Status

Older adults produce less vitamin D through the skin, and certain chronic conditions (like kidney or liver disease) can affect how it is processed.

What Do the Experts Say?

Recent research shows that insufficiency in this essential nutrient remains common, even during the summer. A 2023 review found that individuals living in urban environments or leading primarily indoor lifestyles often experience persistently low levels throughout the year.

Supplementation should still be considered during sunnier months, particularly for those at higher risk, including people with darker skin tones, individuals over 50, or anyone who regularly uses sun protection.

Should You Stop Taking Vitamin D Supplements in Summer?

For most people, the answer is no.

While some individuals with high sun exposure might be able to scale back, most of us benefit from the consistency and reliability of supplementation. Vitamin D supplements help ensure your levels remain in the optimal range — without relying on unpredictable factors like weather or schedule.

Here’s who should consider continuing supplementation during summer:

• Individuals with darker skin tones
• Older adults (50+)
• People who wear sunscreen regularly
• Those who spend most of their time indoors
• Individuals living in northern or urban areas
• Anyone with a history of low vitamin D levels

Why Choose Calm by Wellness Vitamin D Gummies?

Not all supplements are created equal. Calm by Wellness Vitamin D Gummies offer an effective, enjoyable way to support your daily needs — especially if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative.

1. 100% Vegan

Unlike many vitamin D3 products that use lanolin from sheep’s wool, Calm by Wellness gummies use lichen-derived vitamin D3, making them suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

2. Effective Dosage

Each gummy contains 1,000 IU of vitamin D3 — an ideal maintenance dose for most healthy adults, as recommended by many health experts.

3. No Artificial Ingredients

These gummies are made without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. They’re clean, natural, and easy to digest.

4. Delicious and Convenient

Taking your vitamins shouldn’t feel like a chore. These citrus-flavored gummies are easy to enjoy — no pills, no mess, no water required.

How Much Vitamin D Do You Need?

Daily needs for this nutrient can differ based on factors like age, where you live, and overall health:

• 600–800 IU/day is the standard recommendation for adults
• 1,000–2,000 IU/day is considered safe and effective by many clinicians for general maintenance
• Up to 4,000 IU/day is the tolerable upper intake level for adults

If you’re unsure, consider having your vitamin D levels tested through a simple blood test. This can guide your dosage and help you decide whether supplementation is still necessary in summer.

Signs You May Still Be Low in Vitamin D

Even during the summer months, it’s possible to experience signs of deficiency. These include:

• Fatigue or low energy
• Frequent illness or infections
• Bone or back pain
• Muscle weakness
• Mood changes, including irritability or sadness
• Hair thinning

If these symptoms sound familiar, talk to your healthcare provider. They may recommend continuing, or even increasing, your supplement.

Safe Supplementation Tips for Summer

• Take your supplement with food, especially one that contains fat — it helps with absorption.
  
• Store your gummies in a cool, dry place — heat and humidity can affect their texture and potency.
  
• Stay consistent — create a daily routine so you don’t miss doses, even while traveling or on vacation.

The Bottomline

Vitamin D is essential — no matter the season. While summer sunshine can help, it’s not always enough. Whether you’re protecting your skin with sunscreen, staying indoors, or living in a northern climate, vitamin D supplementation remains an important part of overall wellness. Calm by Wellness Vitamin D Gummies offer a clean, effective, and enjoyable way to support your body’s needs, through every season.