Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin

Prashant Nagre

Prashant Nagre Fermenta Biotech Limited

Keywords: Vitamin D,, sunlight, bone, deficiency, supplementation, fortification

Abstract

Vitamin D is one of the most essential micronutrients required by our body. It is aptly called the sunshine vitamin, as it is majorly synthesized by the ultraviolet B (UVB) light obtained from the sun, which is then converted into its active form in the liver and kidneys. Studies have found that Vitamin D plays a vital part not only in bone health, but also in non-skeletal functions such as regulation of gene expression and enhancing the immune system. However, the key issue is inadequate amounts of Vitamin D in our body, due to low dietary intake and limited sunlight exposure. Vitamin D deficiency poses a significant public health problem due to its association with osteoporosis, osteomalacia, fractures, risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and other chronic illnesses. It is necessary for all individuals of any age group to consume the recommended amounts of Vitamin D. Some measures to replenish its deficiency is sunlight exposure, food fortification, and routine supplementation. This review article emphasizes the role of Vitamin D in the body, prevalence of Vitamin D deficiency, potential implications, along with strategies for treatment and prevention
of its deficiency.

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