Bask In The Sun For Essential Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important in maintaining bone health, in absorbing calcium and phosphorus, and in helping the immune system.

The body manufactures the nutrient when exposed to sunshine, but people are spending more time indoors in the confines of air-conditioned homes and offices and traveling in AC cars.

Consequently they are denying their body of the essential sun-shine vitamin and are becoming deficient of the nutrient.

Findings of 2 studies
Data gathered by the International Osteoporosis Foundation about two years ago found levels of vitamin D in the Southern states urban population were lower compared to their rural counterparts.

Vitamin D deficiency puts them at an elevated risk of diseases. The danger was particularly higher in people with dark brown complexion and those adhering to a vegetarian diet.

In another study conducted in Mysore, investigators found 67 percent of mothers were vitamin D deficient. This was responsible for weakening the immunity of their growing children. Lack of the sunshine vitamin can make the kids vulnerable to attacks by viruses and other infections.

According to doctors nearly 10-12 patients need urgent treatment every week for vitamin D deficiency.

Dr Satish Babu, consultant endocrinologist at BGS Global Hospital stated, '' Vitamin D deficiency can lead to reduction in calcium levels and natural formation of insulin in the body. It makes bones weak and soft (oteomalacia) and leads to tiredness and respiratory diseases. Reduction in natural production of insulin increases incidence of type II diabetes (in adults).'’

Vitamin D: important nutrient for health
Vitamin D plays a major role in maintaining a healthy life. The nutrient regulates the calcium and phosphorus levels in the blood, helping maintain normal levels of both of these minerals.

It promotes better calcium absorption that makes bones stronger and dense. According to experts, muscles and nerves need vitamin D to function properly.

The vitamin serves to regulate the immune system, to help battle diseases.

Too little can lead to thin, brittle bones and extremely high levels can be toxic.
Vitamin D can be obtained in some foods naturally (e.g. fish, eggs and cod liver oil) and can also be found in fortified foods such as milk, orange juice, yoghurt, and cereals.

Moreover, the nutrient can be manufactured in the skin by direct exposure to ultraviolet B radiation from the sun.

Nevertheless, experts believe these alone may be inadequate to maintain ideal health levels.