Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the world. In fact, it accounts for almost half of all cancers diagnosed in the United States each year.

While there are many factors that can increase your risk of developing skin cancer, one of the most important is exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun or tanning beds. However, there is one vitamin that has been shown to decrease your risk of skin cancer by up to 17%.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of this vitamin, how it works to protect your skin, and how you can increase your intake to reduce your risk of skin cancer.

What is the vitamin that can decrease your risk of skin cancer?

The vitamin that has been shown to decrease your risk of skin cancer is vitamin D. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in only a few foods, such as fatty fish and egg yolks.

However, your body can also produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight.

How does vitamin D protect your skin?

Vitamin D has several important functions in the body, including regulating the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, promoting strong bones and teeth, and supporting immune function.

However, one of the most important ways that vitamin D protects your skin is by helping to repair damage caused by UV radiation. When your skin is exposed to UV radiation, it produces vitamin D3, which triggers a complex series of reactions that ultimately help to repair damaged DNA and prevent cancerous cells from forming.

How much vitamin D do you need?

While vitamin D is important for many aspects of your health, there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation for how much you need.

The amount of vitamin D you need will depend on a number of factors, including your age, your skin color, where you live, and how much time you spend outdoors. Generally, it is recommended that adults get at least 600-800 IU of vitamin D per day, although some experts recommend higher amounts.

How can you increase your intake of vitamin D?

There are several ways you can increase your intake of vitamin D. One of the easiest is to spend more time in the sun. However, this can be tricky, as too much sun exposure can actually increase your risk of skin cancer.

The best time to get sun exposure is in the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun’s UV rays are less intense. You should also wear protective clothing and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 when you are outside for extended periods of time.

Another way to increase your intake of vitamin D is to eat more foods that are rich in this nutrient. Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna, are all excellent sources of vitamin D.

Other good sources include egg yolks, beef liver, and fortified foods, such as milk, cereal, and orange juice.

Should you take a vitamin D supplement?

If you are not getting enough vitamin D from sunlight or food, you may need to take a supplement. However, it is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement regimen, as high doses of vitamin D can be toxic.

Your doctor can help you determine how much vitamin D you need and whether a supplement is right for you.

The bottom line

Vitamin D is an important nutrient that plays a key role in protecting your skin from the harmful effects of UV radiation.

By increasing your intake of this vitamin through sun exposure, diet, or supplements, you can reduce your risk of developing skin cancer by up to 17%. Talk to your doctor about the best ways to increase your vitamin D intake and protect your skin.