COLUMBIA, South Carolina — In the cooler months, not is the temperatures dropping, the sun's angle is also changing, especially north of the 37th parallel.
The 37th parallel is the circle of latitude 37 degrees north.
In the fall, those above the 37th parallel experience a decrease in direct sunlight. Harvard experts found that this increased vitamin D deficiency risk.
The 37th parallel runs along the northern border of North Carolina, thus placing South Carolina below, meaning the Midlands receive more sunshine compared to the northern regions.
Still, vitamin D deficiency should be monitored, as it is vital to our overall health.
According to the CDC, vitamin D is essential for maintaining strong bones, supporting the immune system, and contributing to good mental health.
This time of the year, the sun is at its peak around 1 p.m. While rays are weaker, spending time outdoors and soaking up what sunlight is available will always help.