Vitamin D is also known as the Sunshine Vitamin, it is naturally produced within the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is synthesized in the epidermis by the action of UVB rays of sunlight on 7-dehydrocholestrol which is then further hydroxylated by liver enzymes, then again hydroxylated in the kidneys forming Calcitriol or 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3. It is also occurs naturally in a few foods - including some fish, fish liver oils, egg yolks, in fortified dairy and grain products.
Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, strong teeth as it aids in absorbing calcium from gut. The deficiency of this vitamin is associated with rickets especially in children, a disease in which the bone tissue doesn't properly mineralize, leading to soft bones and skeletal deformities. People who scare away from sunlight, suffering from milk allergies or people who strictly adhere to vegan diet are at higher risks of vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D deficiency is also seen in dark skinned people as high levels of melanin inhibit the synthesis of vitamin d in epidermis. The most common symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency are bone pain and muscle weakness.
Researchers have confirmed that adequate levels of vitamin D can prevent type1 and type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, hypertension, glucose intolerance, and multiple sclerosis. Low level of vitamin D are associated with risks such as cardiovascular diseases, cognitive impairment, severe asthma in children and cancer. The treatment modalities include, diet and supplementation, usually adequate exposure to sunlight suffices the deficiency, yet if the symptoms persist the doctor might prescribe topical ointments.
-Koya Satyasri
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