Acknowledging The Role Of Vitamin D

In recent times, Vitamin D, often known as the sunshine vitamin, has been a topic of discussion among healthcare professionals and the general public alike. It not only keeps our bones healthy but also plays different roles in our body physiology. It is an interesting paradox that even with abundant sunlight in many parts of the world, vitamin D deficiency has become a common occurrence. This paradox has raised several surprising issues regarding modern lifestyles, public health, and the relationship with nature. 

Vitamin D is produced by our body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Unlike other vitamins that should be obtained mainly through food, Vitamin D is unique in the sense that it links nutrition and environment. Theoretically, the deficiency of vitamin D should be exceptional in countries with abundant sunlight, but owing to modern lifestyles, it is becoming common in those countries as well. In fact, rapid urbanisation, indoor work culture, increasing air pollution, and excessive use of sunscreen have considerably reduced sun exposure to working people. 

Role

Vitamin D helps our body absorb calcium. Calcium has a unique role in maintaining bone health. The deficiency of vitamin D causes a reduction in calcium absorption and leads to weak bones, rickets in children, and osteoporosis in adults. Even well-fed individuals can suffer from vitamin D deficiency, contrary to a common occurrence among poor people and people of old age. We should have strong bones to maintain independence in old age, have adequate mobility, and thus enjoy a better quality of life.

Moreover, vitamin D has a crucial role in regulating our immune system, which is necessary in fighting infections and reducing inflammation. Its importance was felt more during the COVID-19 pandemic when its role in the immune system and disease severity was explored. As a supportive nutrient, it shows how basic health foundations can have a significant influence against communicable diseases. Hence, it was found that it helps our body to fight against infections. 

Vitamin D plays a role in our mental health as well. In regions where there is limited sunlight or long winters, a low level of vitamin D is associated with fatigue, depression, and mood disorders. The connection between sunlight, vitamin D, and emotional well-being is obvious among people suffering from seasonal affective disorder. This link deserves greater attention as mental health problems are rising. 

Interestingly, public health awareness campaigns have also contributed to Vitamin D deficiency. The awareness campaigns rightly warn against excessive sun exposure and the risk of skin cancer. However, this message has led to sun avoidance or excessive use of sunblock. The cultural preferences for fair skin and cosmetic concerns have also exacerbated this trend, particularly in South Asian countries. This trend has led us to low exposure to sunlight, compromising our health. 

There are limited dietary sources of vitamin D, which makes the issue more complicated. For non-vegetarians, sources of vitamin D can be from fatty fish, egg yolks, liver, and fortified foods. However, for many people, these foods can be expensive or not routinely consumed. The deficiency of vitamin D can be seen more often among vegetarians or vegans, as they have to rely on fortified foods for vitamin D. In countries where food fortification is not common, the risk of deficiency is even higher. 

The simple solution for averting vitamin D deficiency is supplementation. The correct use of vitamin D through supplements is affordable and effective. However, excessive use may cause health problems such as calcium imbalance and kidney issues. Therefore, it is important to take vitamin D under medical guidance rather than self-medicate through supplements.  

Vitamin D deficiency shows deeper systemic issues from a public health perspective. Rapid urbanisation that has limited open spaces, sedentary lifestyles that confine people indoors, air pollution that blocks sunlight, and a healthcare system that prioritises treatment over prevention have all contributed to the vitamin D deficiency. Therefore, addressing vitamin D deficiency requires lifestyle changes, policy interventions, and public awareness. 

Adequate sun exposure

Even in countries like Nepal, where sunlight is plentiful, vitamin D deficiency is common. Traditional lifestyles, such as outdoor farming and physical activities, obviously ensure adequate sun exposure. However, when society becomes urban and sedentary, the exposure to sunlight diminishes. Healthy lifestyles, such as morning walks and outdoor activities, ensure adequate sun exposure that is necessary to get enough vitamin D. 

Modern living has resulted in unwanted health consequences such as vitamin D deficiency. Although modernisation and urbanisation have improved many aspects of our lives, they have caused a reduction in our exposure to sunlight, and our body primarily depends on sunlight for the synthesis of vitamin D. 

We should give more attention to vitamin D as it is essential for bone health, the immune system, mental well-being, and overall vitality. A balanced approach that involves adequate sun exposure, improving diets, using supplements prudently, and healthier living conditions can naturally fight vitamin D deficiency. Let us acknowledge the importance of vitamin D for a healthier and quality life ahead. 

(Dr. Lohani is the clinical director at the Nepal Poison Information Centre. lohanis@gmail.com)