A team of British researchers is saying that fair-skinned individuals may need to start taking vitamin D supplements, as their skin is unlikely to naturally produce the levels of the nutrient their bodies need.

The researchers analyzed the levels of vitamin D circulating the in the blood of 1,200 participants. The results showed that those with fairer skin tones tended to have the lowest levels of vitamin D.

Julia Newton-Bishop, who led the investigation, said that when exposed to the sun, the skin of fairer people tends to burn before it is able to produce adequate levels of vitamin D. That is why so many of these individuals have insufficient levels.

"Fair-skinned individuals who burn easily are not able to make enough vitamin D from sunlight and so may need to take vitamin D supplements," Newton-Bishop said.

The researchers' report said that individuals who are concerned about becoming deficient of vitamin D should consider talking to their doctor about the situation. A deficiency can be a serious problem, as the nutrient is known play an important role in immune health and joint health.