Despite living in one of the sunniest regions in the world, many Israelis spend most of their time in the shade. The reason for the paradox is straightforward: our necessary precautions against UVB radiation—long clothing, staying indoors and using high-SPF sunscreen—are the very factors that limit the body’s ability to generate vitamin D.
How the body is supposed to work—and why it often doesn’t
Sunscreens are crucial, and applying them is good practice. But there’s a trade-off: SPF 30 blocks about 97% of UVB rays, and SPF 50 blocks around 98%. While this shields skin from aging and cancer, it also sharply reduces the skin’s ability to synthesize vitamin D. In reality, most people don’t apply sunscreen perfectly, so some vitamin D production does occur—but it is often insufficient, especially for those who spend most of their time in the shade, in vehicles or in air-conditioned offices.
When skin is exposed to UVB rays, a natural process begins: skin cells convert a compound called 7-DHC into vitamin D. The vitamin is then processed by the liver and kidneys into its active form—calcitriol—which plays a vital role in numerous bodily functions.
Who’s especially at risk for vitamin D deficiency?
-
Adults over 50: Skin’s ability to produce vitamin D declines with age
-
People with darker skin: Pigmentation naturally blocks UVB rays
-
Individuals who wear long clothing year-round
-
Office workers who spend most of the day indoors
-
Children and teens who stay inside for much of the day
The anti-aging power of vitamin D
The bottom line? A few drops of vitamin D each day could help keep you feeling young—and may actually slow aging from the inside out.
Are you getting enough vitamin D? Here’s how to know
A simple blood test measuring 25-Hydroxy-Vitamin D (also known as 25-OH-D) can reveal whether your levels are sufficient. Experts recommend taking this test at least once a year. If your result is below 30 ng/mL (or 75 nmol/L), you may need to supplement—even during the summer.
What you should know
Vitamin D is fat-soluble, which means it doesn’t absorb easily in the body’s water-based digestive system. That’s where liposomal technology comes in. This advanced delivery method uses phospholipids—the same building blocks that make up cell membranes—to create tiny fat-like spheres called liposomes. These encapsulate the vitamin, protecting it from stomach acid and enhancing its absorption in the intestine.
Once absorbed, the vitamin enters the bloodstream more effectively. Research shows liposomal supplements can increase blood levels of vitamin D by up to 73% after 30 days of use, compared to just 16% with standard supplements.
The bottom line
Even in a sunny country like Israel, achieving optimal vitamin D levels requires careful attention. Nature gave us plenty of sunshine—but it didn’t anticipate our sunscreen habits, air conditioning and desk jobs of the 21st century.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet or starting new supplements.
