Vitamins are found in sunlight
Vitamin D is most often associated with sunlight. Vitamin D is not a vitamin that can only be acquired through diet. Instead, it can be produced by the body if the skin is exposed directly to UVB rays. Vitamin D is essential to maintaining various body functions and general health because of this unique characteristic.Vitamin D is essential for several physiological processes. It's most important in the regulation calcium and phosphorus. This is important for bone remodeling and growth. Vitamin D deficiency can cause conditions such as rickets or osteomalacia in children, or osteoporosis or osteoporosis for adults. These are characterized by brittle or weak bones.Vitamin D has been linked to immune health as well as bone health. It was shown that vitamin D enhanced the pathogen-fighting effect of macrophages and monocytes, which are white blood cells part of the immune system. Recent research indicates that vitamin D could play a role to reduce the risk of chronic illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers.
#Sunlight and Vitamin D Synthesis#
The following factors can influence the effectiveness of vitamin D syntheses from sunlight:
1. **Geographic location**: People who live closer to the Equator receive more sunlight throughout the year, which increases their vitamin D production. However, people living at higher latitudes might struggle to make enough during winter.2. Melanin can influence vitamin D synthesis. Melanin is more abundant in darker skin, and this can affect the skin's capacity to produce vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Individuals with darker skin will need to spend more time in the sun for them to reach the same vitamin D levels as those with lighter complexions.
3. **Time of day**: The angle at which the sun is viewed affects UVB intensity. The midday sun is most beneficial for vitamin D production. The UVB content of morning and late afternoon sun is lower, which makes it less effective.
4. **Season** During the winter, UVB exposure is reduced, particularly in high latitudes. This can reduce vitamin D production.5. Age: The skin of older adults is less effective at synthesizing Vitamin D. They may require more sun exposure, or additional dietary sources to achieve adequate levels.
#Recommended Levels & Deficiency#
The RDA for vitamin D is different depending on age, gender, and stage of life. Adults are generally advised to consume between 600 and 800 International Units per day. Many experts, however, believe that higher doses may be needed for optimal health. This is especially true for people with little sun exposure.
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