The FINANCIAL -- This August, up to 51 percent of Americans will take a summer vacation, but many women will take steps to shield themselves from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Direct exposure to sunlight is the primary source of vitamin D, an essential nutrient that maximizes the body’s absorption of calcium and helps support healthy bones, joints and muscles. However, as the body ages, it becomes less efficient at producing vitamin D from the sun. Leading experts believe up to 77 percent of Americans have insufficient levels of vitamin D, thus increasing their risk for falls and fractures.

Common sun care practices such as using sunscreen and wearing hats are key to protecting the skin, but also block the body from absorbing the sunlight necessary to produce vitamin D. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends rather than increasing sun exposure, people obtain vitamin D through adequate diet or supplements.

A supplement, like Caltrate, can help provide the daily nutritional requirements for vitamin D and calcium, if not already achieved through sun exposure and diet alone. As Pfizer Inc. reported, Caltrate now with double the amount of vitamin D3, has more D than any other calcium supplement to help maximize calcium absorption. This helps women keep their bones strong, bodies healthy and moving throughout life.

Caltrate is purchased by more Americans than any other calcium supplement. Caltrate helps women meet their recommended daily calcium and vitamin D requirements and, in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise, supports healthy bones, joints and muscles.

Always speak with a health care provider if you have concerns or questions regarding your personal health and to ask if supplements are right for you.

Related Stories

• Use of the investigational protease inhibitor simeprevir led to sustained virologic response
• Women with advanced breast cancer feel left out of the breast cancer movement
• New survey shows awareness about eye and vision-related UV damage is low