Solar simulators for healthy Vitamin D synthesis

authored by

Gunther Seckmeyer, Michael Schrempf, Ansgar Stührmann, Angelika Niedzwiedz

Abstract

Background/Aim: The angular distribution of solar radiance and its spectral characteristics is required for the determination of Vitamin D3 production in humans. Materials and Methods: The Vitamin D3 weighted exposure can be calculated by integrating the incident solar spectral radiance over all relevant parts of the human body. A novel instrument allowing simultaneous measurements of spectral radiance from more than 100 directions has been developed. A large solar simulator for controlled experiments is described. Results: In summer it is relatively easy to obtain sufficient Vitamin D because sun exposure times are short. In winter solstice Vitamin D3 cannot be obtained with realistic clothing even if the exposure were extended to all daylight hours. Conclusion: Improved and controlled experiments to determine Vitamin D3 production are required to assess the positive effects of solar UV radiation and to assess its natural variability.

Organisation(s)

Institute of Meteorology and Climatology

Type

Article

Journal

Anticancer research

Volume

36

Pages

1423-1428

No. of pages

6

ISSN

0250-7005

Publication date

03.2016

Publication status

Published

Peer reviewed

Yes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

Oncology, Cancer Research

Sustainable Development Goals

SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being