Backwards Thinking

And here I thought we were supposed to stay out of the sun and wear lots of sunscreen:

Health Tip for August 4, 2004
Older people worried about osteoporosis should pay attention to the SPF (sunscreen protection factor) on sunscreens.

Because the body cannot absorb sufficient calcium without vitamin D, a vitamin D deficiency can be a major factor in bone loss. The skin makes Vitamin D when it is exposed to sunlight. Sunscreens with an SPF above eight, block the ultraviolet wavelengths that convert vitamin D into the form needed by the body.

Since the body's ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight declines with age, older people are particularly at risk.

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