India has abundant sunshine, yet why are people still vitamin D deficient? Learn the surprising reasons.

News Topical, Digital Desk : India is a country that receives abundant sunlight for most of the year. Despite this, most Indians are deficient in vitamin D. This is shocking, but true. 

Therefore, it's important to ask why this is so. Why are people suffering from vitamin D deficiency in a country that has no shortage of sunlight? Let's explore the underlying causes.

Causes of Vitamin D deficiency in Indians

• Melanin -  Indians naturally have a wheatish or dark skin tone. Our skin contains a high amount of a pigment called melanin. Melanin acts as a protective shield against the sun's ultraviolet rays, preventing skin from burning, but it slows down the production of vitamin D. Darker skin requires more time in the sun to produce the same amount of vitamin D as fair skin.
• Changing Lifestyles -  Most of today's population is living indoors. Desk jobs from 9 am to 6 pm, closed offices, and air-conditioned rooms have cut us off from the sun. In urban areas, tall buildings prevent direct sunlight from reaching homes.
• Pollution:  Increasing air pollution in metropolitan areas is also a major factor. Dust particles and smoke in the air block the sun's ultraviolet rays from reaching us, which hinders the production of vitamin D. 
• Dietary Changes -  Natural sources of vitamin D in the diet are limited, such as fatty fish, egg yolks, and dairy products. A large portion of India's population is vegetarian, making it difficult to meet dietary requirements for this vitamin.

Symptoms of Vitamin D deficiency 

• Persistent pain in bones and joints
• Feeling tired and weak all the time
• hamstring strain
• depression or irritability
• falling sick frequently

What is the solution to this?

• Best time to sunbathe: Spend at least 15-20 minutes in the sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. This is when UVB rays are most effective.
• Dietary changes – Include mushrooms, fortified milk, yogurt, and cheese in your diet.
• Tests and supplements: If you experience persistent fatigue, get a blood test done. Taking vitamin D supplements as directed by your doctor is also an effective way to correct the deficiency.

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