Rheumatologist Questions Bone weakness

Can excess sun exposure weaken my bones?

I have a job that requires me to travel and be a little bit under the sun. But, can this sun exposure cause me to experience bone weakness?

4 Answers

Given sun exposure, would expect Vitamin D level to be in an excellent range, which would be good for bone health
On a general medical side, would recommend sunblock to prevent sunburns and future risk of skin cancer
Sun is good for you, unless you have lupus.
No need to worry. The answer is no.
In fact, the opposite effect may happen. Vitamin D is produced by our skin when exposed to the sun. Vitamin D is necessary for the absorption of calcium from our gastrointestinal system. Vitamin D is not adequate by itself to produce strong bones. You need calcium from food intake or from a supplement to build bones. For more information about osteoporosis (weak bones), go to thespinecommunity.com

David G. Borenstein, M.D. MACP., MACR.