Why Is Vitamin D Deficiency So Prevalent?

Our body synthesizes vitamin D when sunlight is absorbed by our skin. It has been recognized as a major benefit of sunshine for a very long time. In fact, vitamin D is produced naturally when your skin is exposed to sunlight for an extended period of time. Despite this abundance and free supply of vitamin D, many people are deficient in vitamin D. Let's look at some reasons why some people are not getting enough vitamin D.

Being in an area where pollution is prevalent
Using ultra violet rays or sunscreens that block the absorption of UVB and UVA light can interfere with your ability to absorb vitamin D. People who work in environments that expose them to significant amounts of pollution have reported that they frequently suffer from vitamin D insufficiency symptoms, including skin disorders and bone diseases.

Spending too much time indoors
If you spend a great deal of time inside, either because you are trapped indoors all day or because you are working at a desk all day without exposure to natural sunlight, you may not be getting enough vitamin D in your body. This is particularly important if you work in an industry that requires workers to stay indoors or wear heavy protective clothing and accessories like jackets, hats, and gloves. Recent research has found that exposure to UV radiation from artificial light can lead to vitamin D deficiency in people who spend a great deal of time indoors. Exposing your body to artificial light, even during the daytime, can lead to weak bones, increased risk of infections and weakening of the immune system.

Not eating a healthy diet
Deficiencies in vitamin D and calcium are typically associated with diets that are high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables. Although vitamin D and calcium are both essential for building strong bones, eating a diet that does not provide your body with enough of these nutrients can weaken your bones and make it more difficult for your immune system to fight off infections. Even if you consume plenty of vitamin D in your diet, you may not be getting enough calcium to help keep your bones strong and healthy.

Obesity
Vitamin D is fat soluble, meaning the more fat cells you have, not more vitamin D can be stored in your body. That might sound good, but in fact we need vitamin D in our bloodstream so it can be transported to our organs.

Old Age
As we get older, our bodies find it harder to absorb vitamin D. Thus, we really should be supplementing vitamin D as we reach old age. Even if you're outdoors a lot, and eating a vitamin D rich diet, you may still need to supplement.

Whatever your situation, it's wise to consult your doctor and get a blood test to get your vitamin D levels checked. Your doctor can prescribe lifestyle changes/vitamin D supplmentation that will help you become vitamin D sufficient.


Article kindly provided by katraining.uk

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