Is limiting sun in fact harmful? Can one block too much sun (with hats and sunscreen) to the point of self-induced Vitamin D deficiency?

According to Santa Monica-based dermatologist Dr. Karyn Grossman, there has been a lot of press surrounding this controversy. And while it is true that sun exposure for a brief period of time stimulates Vitamin D production in the body, most people who use SPF and hats are not D deficient.

However, we know that too much of UV radiation causes skin cancer. And you cannot separate the good UV (which makes Vitamin D), from the bad UV (which causes skin cancer and premature aging).

The American Academy of Dermatology has looked into this subject extensively, and its recommendation – which in my opinion borders on paranoia – is that one should meet Vitamin D requirements with nutrient-rich foods – such as milk, orange juice, salmon, tuna, eggs, Swiss cheese – and or supplements. [sources: American Academy of Dermatology, C Style]