Why are people Vitamin D deficient even after having abundant sunlight?

Dr.Navneet Gill, 2 mins read

Surprisingly over 70% of India’s population is Vitamin D deficient despite ample sunlight. This poses a great risk to the whole nation as this vital vitamin is a must for building and maintaining healthy bones. It allows your body to absorb calcium, the primary component of bones and teeth. Vitamin D also regulates numerous cellular functions.

Deficiency of this vitamin can cause bone deformities, skin problems, hair issues, and much more. Do you have enough of this vitamin? Get your vitamin D level checked with a simple test at Aakash Healthcare.

But why is such a huge number of people vitamin D deficient? Well, the answer lies in the changing lifestyle. First of all, understand vitamin D production is not solely dependent on sunlight exposure. Several factors play a role in this, which we will discuss in the guide.

Factors Contributing to Vitamin D Deficiency

• Indoor lifestyle: With urbanization and corporate culture, many people spend most time indoors. Even when they go out, they do so in the early morning and late evening when UVB radiation is at a very low level.
• Skin Color: Individuals with dark skin, common among Indians, usually require more sunlight to produce the same amount of vitamin D as lighter skin tones. This is because of higher melanin, a natural substance that gives colour to the skin, in darker skin tones. Melanin is believed to offer protection from UV rays, preventing individuals with dark skin from getting the same amount of sunlight exposure as light-skinned people.
• Diet: The food we Indians eat is generally less fortified with vitamin D. Even foods with vitamin D like fatty fish, egg yolks, and dairy products, are consumed in less amounts.
• Air pollution: The higher level of pollution in India, especially in metropolitan cities, blocks the sunlight and reduces the UVB radiation reaching the ground. This makes it difficult for people living in polluted regions to get enough vitamin D from sunlight exposure.

Consequences of Vitamin D Deficiency

Vitamin D has a vital role in maintaining strong bones, immune function, and overall health. Its deficiency can cause numerous health issues like:

• Osteoporosis and weakened bones
• Increased risk of infections and autoimmune diseases
• Depression, muscle weakness, and fatigue
• High blood pressure and heart problems

Boosting Vitamin D Levels

• Sunlight exposure: Get time for yourself regularly. Spend time outdoors but also practise sun safety to prevent skin damage.
• Dietary changes: Include more vitamin D-rich foods in your diet like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
• Supplementation: You can consider vitamin D supplementation after consulting a doctor.

By understanding the factors contributing to vitamin D deficiency and taking adequate steps to boost your levels, you can reduce your risk of related health issues and maintain optimal overall health.