Vitamin D, also known as the sunshine Vitamin, is a steroid hormone which is essential for Calcium and Phosphorous absorption in human body. It is one of the vital Vitamins needed by the human body. Deficiency of Vitamin D can lead to various bone related problems such as Osteoporosis, Arthritis etc. Vitamin D is also required for strong teeth. Vitamin D is provided to us by the sunlight. Also, various foods such as fish, cod-liver oil and milk products contain Vitamin D in adequate amounts.

Problems caused by deficiency of Vitamin D

1. Bone problems such as Osteoporosis, bone fractures, arthritis etc.
2. Deficiency of Vitamin D can make you prone to cancers such as Colon and Prostate cancers.
3. Deficiency of Vitamin D in children can lead to problem or Rickets which is a disease that hinders with proper growth of children and can also result in low immunity. It makes the bones soft and can result in deformity of bones in children.
4. Risk of heart disease and diabetes is also associated with the deficiency of Vitamin D.
5. Pregnant women with deficiency or with reduced level of Vitamin D can have babies with low bone density.
6. Low immunity and less resistance to fight with diseases.

Sources of Vitamin D

1. Sunlight. Most of the people today work in air-conditioned offices and hardly go out much in sun. Too little exposure to sun can lead to deficiency of Vitamin D.
2. Fish, Cod-liver oil, eggs, milk products, cereals.
3. Musghrooms also provide some amount of Vitamin D.
4. Vitamin D supplements which are easily available in market and should be taken under the guidance of a doctor.

Who are Prone to Vitamin D Deficiency?

1. People living in hilly areas as they do not get sufficient sunlight. Exposure to sunlight daily for at least 15 minutes is a must.
2. People with kidney and liver disorders as it can hinder with the conversion of Vitamin D in its active form known as Calcitriol.
3. People who commonly use sunscreens more than SPF 8 as sunscreens do not let the skin fully absorb Vitamin D.
4. People suffering from certain medical conditions such as Cystic fibrosis.
5. People with dark colored skin as dark skin does not absorb much Vitamin D.
6. People with obesity.
7. Pregnant women.

• Written by Anshu.
• In category Nutrition.
• 11 years ago.

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