To slim down for the beach, spend a little more time on it -- you need vitamin D to shed extra pounds.

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That's what a recent study found, as Jonny tells us.

So just how do you get this vital vitamin? The best source of vitamin D is available to everyone (except, maybe, those living in England), and it's completely free -- getting out in the sunshine for just 15 minutes should be enough to get your recommended daily intake. You can also get vitamin D from some fish and fatty oils, or vitamin-fortified foods such as cereals and dairy products.

Of course, while sunshine is vital to your waistline and health, it goes without saying that you need to be careful -- make sure you're covered up or wearing sunscreen after those first few minutes, and be sure to keep hydrated.