Increased exposure to sunlight may reduce the risk of both food allergies and eczema in children, according to a new study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

The research team studied available data on Australian children and analysed how rates of food allergy, eczema and asthma varied throughout the country. In addition to demonstrating a link between latitude and allergies to peanut and egg, the results showed that on average children in the south of the country were twice as likely to develop eczema as those in the north.

Exposure to sunlight is important as it allows for vitamin D synthesis. This report builds upon existing evidence that suggests a link between sun exposure and the incidence of allergic disease.

Gray N. Low vitamin D status linked to food allergy and eczema in children: Study. Nutraingredients-usa.com, 7 Feb 2012.
Osborne NJ, Ukoumunne OC, Wake M, et al. Prevalence of eczema and food allergy is associated with latitude in Australia. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2012 Feb 1.

Thoughts:

Despite having what we have been told as enough time in the sun to get our vitamin D, there are still many adults and children who are deficient.  The latitude affects our ability to absorb vitamin D, along with many other factors We know that Vitamin D is important for moderating our immune system so if you or your children have an allergic condition than don’t just assume you’re getting enough vitamin D, get it checked.

Tips on how to get vitamin D from the sun while still being safe:

• Vitamin D is best absorbed between 10am and 3pm.
• Get 7-10 minutes of sun exposure to arms and legs.
• Follow with SPF30+ sunscreen.
• Always protect the face.

Past Vitamin D posts:

Vitamin D PDF

Vitamin D Newsletter

Vitamin D and Asthma

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